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REVIVE YOUR LOVE LIFE A Woman’s Guide to Natural Libido Boosters
Solutions for a Sluggish Thyroid
Reboot Your Eating Habits Tips for the Best Yard Sale Ever May 2016 | West Michigan Edition | NaturalWestMichigan.com natural awakenings
May 2016
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contents 9 4 newsbriefs 8 healthbriefs 1 1 community
spotlight 1 2 globalbriefs 14 greenreading 12 20 healingways 22 fitbody 24 consciouseating 26 wisewords 28 inspiration 30 healthykids
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32 greenliving 34 naturalpet 42 calendar 45 naturaldirectory
advertising & submissions HOW TO ADVERTISE To advertise with Natural Awakenings or request a media kit, please contact us at 616-604-0480 or email: Publisher@ NaturalWestMichigan.com. Deadline for space reservation is the 12th of each month prior to publication.
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Natural Awakenings is your guide to a healthier, more balanced life. In each issue readers find cutting-edge information on natural health, nutrition, fitness, personal growth, green living, creative expression and the products and services that support a healthy lifestyle.
18 SPARK UP YOUR LOVE LIFE
Natural Ways to Boost Libido by Lisa Marshall
20 SOLUTIONS FOR A
SLUGGISH THYROID
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Keying in on Iodine by Kathleen Barnes
22 FACIAL FITNESS Exercises to Tone Your Face and Neck by Kathleen Barnes
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24 HOW TO REBOOT
YOUR EATING HABITS Small Shifts Can Drop Pounds and Gain Health by Judith Fertig
26 CHRISTIE BRINKLEY
SHARES HER SECRETS TO LASTING BEAUTY
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Why She Still Looks Terrific After 40 Years as a Model by Gerry Strauss
30 SENIORS, TEENS AND TYKES
Submit Calendar Events online at: NaturalWestMichigan.com. Calendar deadline is the 15th of the month prior to publication.
Enriching Programs Unite the Generations
WHERE TO PICK UP NATURAL AWAKENINGS
by Linda Sechrist
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32 TIPS FOR THE BEST
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YARD SALE EVER
How to Profitably Give Unwanted Stuff a New Life by Sarah Tarver-Wahlquist
34 STRESSED-OUT PETS Natural Ways to Calm Fear and Anxiety by Sandra Murphy
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contact us Publisher Pamela Gallina Assistant Publisher Amanda Grasmeyer Editors S. Alison Chabonais Linda Sechrist Design & Production Interactive Media Design Scott Carvey Printer Stafford Media Solutions Natural Awakenings P.O. Box 330 Spring Lake, MI 49456 Phone: 616-604-0480 Publisher@NaturalWestMichigan.com
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Subscriptions are available by sending $30 (12 issues) to the above address. © 2016 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.
ast month I attended Inspired Life GR, an annual wellness conference at Aquinas College. I was struck by the high quality of the speakers—most of whom are Natural Awakenings’ advertisers and grateful that their participation indicates how far Grand Rapids has come in accepting alternative methods of healing. Their stories are fascinating and I’m grateful to have learned more about their contributions to our local natural healthy living community. Among the leaders in our local movement are Carol Hendershot with the Grand Rapids Center for Mindfulness, Linda Squires with Holistic Care Approach, Sue Dilsworth with Hearts Journey Wellness Center and conference organizer Kelly Hassberger with Grand Rapids Natural Health. I felt honored to be in such well-credentialed company and glad to live here. I have been practicing yoga regularly since 1996 when Pam Ellinger first began offering classes in the basement of a church in Spring Lake. I was a distance runner at the time and soon became convinced that yoga was serving to protect me against incurring injury as my dedicated running schedule continued through 14 marathons and an ultra-marathon. I discovered that yoga even acts like a natural lubricant for joints, contributing to my longevity as a runner. Sessions with Pam always included time for meditation, which sparked a regular meditation practice of my own. Through my years, I’ve come to realize that when I’m feeling out of balance physically or emotionally, it usually means busyness has caused me to neglect my yoga or meditation practice. At the conference I was happy to revisit the health benefits of eating whole foods, naturally reducing stress levels, stretching and yoga, daily meditation and practicing mindfulness in all of our interactions, including with ourselves. Speakers highlighted the considerable differences between naturopathic and other forms of holistic healing that treat the underlying cause of diseases and disorders versus traditional Western medicine that primarily attacks symptoms, enabling a cycle of chronic health conditions. It’s all a good reminder how vital it is that we live consciously and make mindful choices rather than existing on autopilot, doing things the same old way with unsatisfactory results. Optimal wellness is possible. To conscious living,
Pamela Gallina, Publisher
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.
Natural Awakenings Magazine of West Michigan
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newsbriefs Natural Awakenings Family of Franchises Keeps Growing
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atural Awakenings Publishing Corp. (NAPC) welcomed five new publishers to its April training session at the corporate headquarters in Naples, Florida. The staff spent several days with these entrepreneurs, discussing the ins and outs of publishing new Natural Awakenings editions in Boulder/Fort Collins, Colorado, and Delaware/Chester County, Pennsylvania, and taking ownership of existing magazines in Charlotte, North Carolina; Charleston, South Carolina; and Portland, Oregon/Vancouver, Washington. Founded by Chief Executive Officer Sharon Bruckman with a single edition in Naples in 1994, Natural Awakenings has grown to become one of the largest, free, local, healthy living publications in the world. Franchise publishers collectively serve nearly 4 million readers each month via 95 magazines published in cities across the U.S., Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic. “Living a conscious lifestyle that supports our well-being and the sustainability of Planet Earth has become more important than ever,” says Bruckman. “Our dedicated family of publishers, supported by local advertisers, connects readers with the resources they need to create a healthier, happier world that works for all living things.” For a list of locations where Natural Awakenings is published or to learn more about franchising opportunities, call 239-530-1377 or visit NaturalAwakeningsMag.com. See ad, page 25.
Meatless Monday Potlucks
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oin the Grand Rapids Veg Fest Meatless First Monday Vegan Potluck on May 2. Explore the many delicious vegan dishes and be inspired. For those thinking about becoming vegan or vegetarian, whose who’ve been one for years or those who are just interested in learning more about the vegan and vegetarian life style, come and meet others who have already made this choice and support them in their decision. These potlucks are a great place to be introduced to vegan dishes for those interested in the vegan lifestyle. Gather at 6 p.m. to meet and greet. Dinner will start at 6:30 p.m. and the video of the month, after the potluck, begins around 7:15 p.m. This month’s video will be From Table to Able: Combating Disabling Diseases with Food, by Dr. Michael Gregger. The potluck is always vegan, which means no animal-based ingredients such as meats, fish, eggs, dairy, honey and gelatin. Attendees are asked to bring their own utensils and plates if possible, so as to not add more trash in the planet as well as their recipe cards to share with others, noting the original source if necessary. Location: The Central SDA Church, 100 Sheldon Blvd. SE, in Grand Rapids. For more information, call 616-881-6988, email GRVegFest@gmail.com or join online at MeetUp.com/Veg_GrandRapids. Metered parking is free after hours, or parking should be available in the GRCC or GR library lots. 4
West Michigan Edition
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Love Your Mother Earth
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n honor of Earth week and Mother’s Day week, WMEAC is proud to host Love Your Mother Earth Day, the sixth annual Ottawa County Grand River Cleanup from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. on May 7 at Harbor Island in Grand Haven. Love Your Mother Earth Day will be taking place with organizations and individuals from Grand Haven to Grand Rapids that engage the community to remove trash and debris from the surrounding area while also providing a hands-on learning experience to encourage people about preventive practices. This event includes a small breakfast provided beforehand and a light lunch after the cleanup. With the event taking place after Earth Day and right before Mother’s Day we will be hosting a Love Your Mother Earth Day celebration afterwards with live music provided by Greenhouse Gang. An after party will also take place at Grand Armory Brewing—get $1 off all beers when you wear your Ottawa County Cleanup T-shirt. The future of our natural resources depends on the stewardship of citizens like you. Come help clean up and enhance the riverbank of the Grand River. Location: Harbor Island 11 Harbor Island Dr., in Grand Haven. For more information, visit wmeac.org.
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May 2016
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newsbriefs Mother’s Day Special
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n honor of Mother’s Day, Lauren Ramey, an esthetician at Grand Rapids Natural Health, is offering 20 percent off all organic skin care services when you buy a gift card for your mom, now through May 8 or book an appointment
May 1 through 8. Ramey is striving to promote holistic organic skin care in the Grand Rapids area. She believes in non-invasive, relaxing skin treatments with an emphasis on clean, active products that will help feed her client’s complexion now and in the future. She is passionate about educating her clients on what is in their products and what they should be applying to their skin. Happy Mother’s Day to all the moms who certainly deserve a little rest and relaxation. For more information, call 616-264-6556, email Info@ GRNaturalHealth.com or visit GRNaturalHealth.com. See ad, page 26.
Weekend of Wisdom for Weight-Loss
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oin Deb Timmerman, RN, HTP, of Guided Transformations, from May 20-22, for an amazing weekend of healing, creativity and renewal for those struggling with their weight. Reconnect to the authentic person inside and come away with tools and strategies to help you release blocks and barriers preventing permanent weight loss. The Weekend of Wisdom for Weight-Loss will take place in Wayland and is for anyone who is 50+ pounds
overweight, has not been successful at maintaining weight loss, has been on a perpetual “diet”, has failed at bariatric surgery or is just sick and tired of being sick and tired. Workshop leader Timmerman, believes the word diet is a four-letter word. She struggled with obesity from early childhood and was on one diet after another her entire life. Learning how the Energy System and other life events influenced her body, mind and soul, led to a series of “Aha!” moments that changed her life. Down over 100 pounds, she continues to lose weight, her external body reflecting the transformation that took place in her mind and Spirit. Timmerman will be joined by Beth Tuttle, EFT Practitioner and Sondra Scott, Certified Coach Practitioner. Cost is $375 per participant. Space is limited to 10 participants. For more information, call 616-4017199, email Deb@GuidedTransformations.net or visit GuidedTransformations.net. See ad, page 46.
Buttermilk Jamboree
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he sixth annual Buttermilk Jamboree, June 10-12 at Circle Pines Center, cultivates creativity, art and community cooperation. The three-day festival features dozens of Michigan bands and artists, as well as a few nationally touring groups. Buttermilk’s four stages boast an eclectic array of performers throughout the day and into the night, while kid’s activities, daily educational workshops, a beer tent serving locally crafted beer and other activities enrich the genuine experience. Weekend and day tickets are available, as well as onsite car and walk-in camping, included in the purchase of a weekend ticket. Be sure to check out ButtermilkJamboree. org to see this year’s entertainment lineup and activities. Location: Circle Pines Center, 8650 Mullen Rd., Delton. To purchase tickets or for more information, visit ButtermilkJamboree.org.
Wood & Saw
Your Journey Towards Wellness Begins Here
REMODELING AND HOME BUILDING Toxic-Free | Energy Efficient | Sustainable 616.834.2480 WoodandSaw.com Holland, MI 6
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(269) 366-4146 AlignedCare.net
QSM3 Upper Cervical Nutrition Response Testing Kinesio Taping Massage Therapy Laboratory Diagnostics
New EcoTrek Leader
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coTrek Fitness, the locally owned West Michigan company offering unique group outdoor workouts since May of 2006, is thrilled to welcome Vicksburg resident Jason Wood as the Kalamazoo Area EcoTrek Series Leader. Wood, originally from Ft. Wayne, Indiana, has made the Kalamazoo area his home base for the last ten years. He is an Air Force veteran, Jason Wood a graduate of the Community College of Air Force and the owner and founder of ZooCity Fitness and Personal Training. Wood is passionate about using health and fitness to help his clients unlock their true potential to become the individuals they’ve always wanted to be. He feels fitness is about mental fitness as much as physical fitness. EcoTrek sessions run 75 minutes and incorporate the elements of cardio, strength training and flexibility. Wood, like each other EcoTrek leader, adds his individual spin to the workout according to the location, which is different every time. This keeps it fun and interesting—yet effective, because EcoTrekkers will burn fat, increase lean muscle mass and improve their flexibility, all in one workout. As an added bonus, participants get to work out in a group instead of alone. For schedules, costs, location information and easy online sign-up, visit EcoTrekFitness.com. See ad, page 17.
Ayurvedic Medicine Workshop and Kirtan
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rom the Heart Yoga & Tai Chi Center presents Sonam Targee for a day of ayurvedic medicine and an evening of Kirtan on May 21. Targee will be offering two workshops during the day followed by a Kirtan in the evening. Targee has had a successful Sonam Targee clinic in ayurveda and herbal medicine for 27 years. He has taught in yoga centers and hospitals around the country and he currently practices and lives in Rochester, New York. Born in Tamil Nader, South India, he extensively studied Indian music, Indian medicine and Indian spirituality. Targee has studied Ayurveda with Dr. Vasant Lad, Dr. Robert, Svoboda and Dr. Mahadevan. He holds a Master’s Degree in Chinese Medicine, a practitioner’s certification in Neuro-Linguistic Programming and a Bachelor’s degree in Ethno-musicology. Location: From the Heart Yoga & Tai Chi Center at 714 Wealthy St., Grand Rapids. For more information, call 616336-9642 or visit FromTheHeartYoga.com. See ad, page 16.
recipecorner
Tofu Ricotta Pasta Ingredients: 1 lb pasta 1 jar marinara ¼ cup oil for ricotta, plus 1 tbsp for sautéing 1 tsp lemon juice 1 pkg extra-firm tofu 1½ tbsp oregano ½ tbsp garlic powder 1 tsp salt ½ onion, diced 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 cup fresh or frozen spinach Directions: Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Cook pasta according to directions. Crumble tofu in a large bowl with your hands to resemble feta. Mix in lemon juice and ¼ cup oil and stir to distribute evenly. Add garlic, salt, and oregano mixing one by one. Set aside. Heat tablespoon of oil on medium heat. Add onion, spinach, and garlic and cook until onions are translucent, about 4-5 minutes. Add onions, garlic and spinach to tofu mixture. Mix well. Pour enough marinara sauce to cover bottom of a 13 x 9 inch pan. Add cooked pasta and remaining sauce on top. Top pasta with tofu mixture, spreading evenly. Cover with foil and bake for 15 minutes. Recipe courtesy of VeganOutreach.org
natural awakenings
May 2016
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“Sick and Tired” of Feeling “Sick and Tired” Explore the benefits of
healthbriefs
Cotton Hygiene Items Contaminated with Monsanto’s Glyphosate
A Young Living Essential Oils n Grown from NON-GMO seeds n Grown in organic soils n Cultivated with natural fertilizers n Watered by melting snows from
nearby mountains n Distilled by gentle, customdesigned methods to release highest potency properties n As seen on the “Today” show n Kosher certified n Classified G.R.A.S.
Never Any
recent study by researchers at the University of La Plata, in Argentina, has found that most of the cotton hygiene products on the market contain the chemical glyphosate, widely used in agriculture as an herbicide. According to a recent World Health Organization statement, glyphosate is a probable carcinogen to humans. The researchers purchased samples of cotton gauze, swabs, wipes and feminine care products including tampons and sanitary pads from stores in the La Plata area. Dr. Damian Marino, the study’s lead researcher, recounts the results: “Eighty-five percent of all samples tested positive for glyphosate and 62 percent for aminomethylphosphonic acid (AMPA), which is the environmental metabolite, but in the case of cotton and sterile cotton gauze, the figure was 100 percent.” Marino adds, “In terms of concentrations, we saw that in raw cotton, AMPA dominates, with 39 parts per billion (PPB), followed by 13 PPB of glyphosate. While AMPA is absent in the gauze, the material contained glyphosate at 17 PPB.” The research was presented at the 2015 national Congress of Doctors of Fumigated Towns, in Buenos Aires.
3 Adulteration 3 Additives 3 Synthetics 3 Pesticides
Ozone Averts Tooth and Gum Infections
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For People AND Pets! Available through local, Independent Distributors
Income Opportunities Also Available! www.youngliving.org/naturalhealth4U Ad sponsored by Marilyn York (Young Living Independent Member #489656)
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West Michigan Edition
ccording to a recent report in the journal Interventional Neuroradiology, dental practice and research in Europe has determined that ozone therapy can be used to slow the growth of tooth and gum infections. Clinicians are also finding that targeted exposure to ozonated water, gas and oils helps to manage viral and fungal infections, including oral herpes infections. Approximately a quarter of lesions treated with ozone do not reappear. These treatments have also been used successfully on sinus infections and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction. Using ozone offers advantages over the use of antibiotics, which contribute to antibiotic resistance, according to the report. In addition, ozone gas has been shown effective in eliminating Enterococcus faecalis, one of the central bacteria involved in root canal infections, which can become increasingly resistant to the central antimicrobial treatment used in root canal therapy, sodium hypochlorite, and can thus decrease the risk of continued infection. “Additionally, the bone at the end of the roots is often shown to harbor pathogenic bacteria for many years after traditional root canal therapy has been completed. Ozone can eliminate those bacteria that infest this region and remove toxic waste products that effectively prevent complete healing of the osseous structures,” writes study author and Doctor of Dental Medicine William Domb, director of the Inland Institute of Aesthetic Dentistry, in Upland, California.
NaturalWestMichigan.com
The Missing Link: Inflammation and Depression in Women
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ntidepressant drug use is on the rise, particularly among women. A report released by Medco Health Solutions analyzed prescription claims data from 2.5 million Americans between 2001 and 2010 and found that 25 percent of women take drugs for a mental health condition. Despite a mainstream medicine notion that depression is caused by a chemical imbalance, medications known by familiar names such as Zoloft and Prozac meant to counter symptoms of such an imbalance may instead be causing a host of known harmful side effects. “In six decades, not a single study has proven that depression is caused
by a chemical imbalance,” asserts Dr. Kelly Brogan, an integrative physician, women’s health advocate and pioneer in holistic psychiatry. A study published in the journal JAMA Psychiatry in 2014 reviewed 10 randomized, placebo-controlled trials to assess the effectiveness of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) in adults with symptoms of depression. The researchers from Aarhus University, in Denmark, found that treating inflammation in patients helped decrease their symptoms. Brogan asserts that this approach is the best way to treat depression in women, advocating the use of a holistic anti-inflammation strategy instead of NSAIDs or antidepressants. “A more effective, drug-free approach is to recruit basic lifestyle changes that kick-start the body’s self-healing mechanisms, helping to curtail the symptoms of depression,” she claims. Her suggestions include dietary modification; simple breathing and meditation techniques; minimizing exposure to biologydisrupting toxins that include common over-the-counter drugs; sufficient sleep and exercise. “Medical literature has emphasized the role of inflammation in mental illness for more than 20 years, so if you think a chemical pill can save, cure or correct you, think again,” says Brogan. “Covering over symptoms is a missed opportunity to resolve the root cause of the problem.” For more information, visit KellyBroganMD.com.
Staying Active Relates to Healthy Hearing
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es-
earch from Johns Hopkins University has found that elderly persons that engage in frequent physical activity have a reduced incidence of hearing loss. The researchers tested 706 people of age 70 or older. The subjects responded to a questionnaire about their physical activity levels over the previous 30 days and wore accelerometers to measure their level of day-to-day physical activity. Subjects were categorized as inactive, insufficiently active or sufficiently active. After testing each participant’s hearing, the researchers found that those in the inactive category, according to the accelerometer data, were 70 percent more likely to suffer from significant hearing impairment. The data produced by the questionnaires alone suggested that individuals in the lowest category had a 59 percent increased incidence of hearing impairment.
Vikki Nestico R.Ac., Dipl. OM
located at:
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Renewal Skin Spa 6080 28th St SE Grand Rapids
Make 2016 Your Healthiest Year Ever! Restore balance in your life, visit grandwellness.net
Pain Relief • Fertility • Digestive Disorders • Depression Hormone Imbalance • Cancer Treatment Support • Insomnia
For appointments or to schedule a FREE consultation call 616-940-1177 or go to GrandWellness.net natural awakenings
May 2016
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healthbriefs
Magnesium Improves Childbirth for Mother and Newborn
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esearch presented at the annual meeting of the American Society of Anesthesiologists has found that magnesium reduces fevers during childbirth, as well as complications among newborns. The study followed 63,000 deliveries from Northwestern Memorial Hospital, in Chicago, between 2007 and 2014. Of these, 6,163 women developed fevers of at least 100.4° F during labor. Of the women that developed fevers, 2,190 received magnesium sulfate intravenously during their labor. Rates of fever at maternity dropped by half, to 4.3 percent, in women that received the magnesium, versus 9.9 percent in those that did not. The rate of newborn complications was also significantly lower among women given magnesium. The study, led by Dr. Elizabeth Lange, an attending physician at Northwestern Memorial Hospital, is the first of its kind to investigate the effect of magnesium on childbirth. “By reducing the incidence of maternal fever, magnesium sulfate therapy may also reduce the incidence of complications in newborns,” says Lange.
Red Clover Guards against Menopausal Bone Loss
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12-week study of 60 menopausal women in Denmark has found that red clover halted bone loss and bone mineral density reduction. The randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled research, sponsored by the Aarhus University Medical School and Hospital, tested the women over a three-month period. Half were treated with 150 milliliters of red clover extract daily and the others were given a placebo. The red clover plant extract was standardized to 37 milligrams of isoflavones, including 34 milligrams of aglycones. The scientists measured changes in bone mineral density, bone mineral content and T-score, measured at the spine and femoral bone. They also monitored bone turnover markers. By the end of the study, the women in the placebo group had continued to lose bone mass and bone mineral density. Those given the red clover extract showed no such reductions during the study period. In addition, the red clover group experienced no increase in inflammation or blood pressure.
Thermography for Health and Wellness
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edical infrared thermography is well-
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West Michigan Edition
know as an essential adjunct for women’s breast health in the way of prevention and cancer risk assessment. What is less known is that thermography may also be used to assess the following as well: thyroid dysfunction, dental irritation, muscle or joint inflammation, trigger points, nerve root irritation, diabetes and even stroke prevention. For athletes, young people or people with age concerns who are in need of a resolution of unresolved
NaturalWestMichigan.com
Legumes Keep Colorectal Cancer at Bay
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orean medical school scientists have found that those eating more legumes have a significantly reduced risk of colorectal cancer. Their research analyzed the diets of 3,740 people, including 901 colorectal cancer patients. A total of 106 different foods were graded and calculated to establish frequency of intake among the study participants. The group that consumed the highest amounts of legumes had more than a 50 percent drop in incidence of colorectal cancer. As legume consumption increased, colorectal cancer risk decreased. The researchers attributed the dramatic reduction in risk to the intake of isoflavones, contained in many nuts and beans. When intakes of total isoflavones were calculated, those with diets that contained the highest levels reduced their colorectal cancer risk, by 33 percent in men and 35 percent in women. The researchers reported, “The reduced risks for colorectal cancer among high-intake groups were most consistent for legumes and sprouts.” pain, in need of a physiological assessment or feel great but would like risk-assessment medical thermography, imaging sessions can be tailored to specific needs. Julie Bennet, CTT, is the owner and technician of Advanced Thermal Imaging of West Michigan LLC. For more information, call 616-724-6368, email AdvancedThermalImaging@hotmail. com or visit AdvancedThermalImagingLLC.com. See ad, page 37.
communityspotlight BRAIN & BODY CHIROPRACTIC by Julie Reynolds
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or people experiencing ongoing pain or other confusing neurological symptoms, there is help to be found in Brain and Body Chiropractic, an office tucked away on the corner of East 16th and Hope Street in Holland. Dr. Lily Semrow and Dr. Kody Semrow, a husband and wife team, are eager to offer their expertise and healing methods to those with many different ailments. This pair is backed by many years of training and practice in their field for which they are both very passionate about. Both doctors completed a four-year graduate program in chiropractic near Atlanta, Georgia. They finished their residency in the San Francisco area, but chose to move back to this particular area where Kody, as he is referred to in his office, is originally from. His family roots, fondness of the area and the reasonable cost of living in West Michigan drew the couple here to start their practice. They help others manage and eliminate Neuro-Structural dysfunctions which are often the underlying causes of many secondary symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, numbness and tingling, joint pain, sciatica, disc herniation, balance disorders and much more. Brain and Body Chiropractic has set out to help people overcome their neurological and structural dysfunction so they can get back to living the lives they enjoy. People dealing with varying amounts of pain or other debilitating symptoms come to see them every day, and both doctors feel a deep satisfaction in being able to help those who have not been able to find relief through other methods—both medically and otherwise. They are cognizant of the fact that each type of healing has its place for individuals but are also keen on what neuro-structural chiropractic care specifically can do for pain management and quality of life that other methods simply cannot do. Lily enjoys the challenge of complex problems. She is a Fellow of American College of Functional Neurology and one of only six diplomates of American Chiropractic
Neurology Board in Michigan. She works, strategizes and plans methods of treatment to help her patients decrease or eliminate their pain and other symptoms as a result of a variety of neuro-structural dysfunctions. She uses research-based strategies to find solutions. She and her husband sometimes will both see the same patient to utilize both of their unique skills and techniques to best benefit the patient. Kody focuses on several manual techniques including extremity adjustments. For someone experiencing knee or shoulder pain, for example, Kody can work on those specific parts of the body. He mentioned many people are unaware that some chiropractors do extremity adjustments. There are a number of myths circling around the field of chiropractic care and much that needs to be done to educate people on the truths and benefits of this method of healing. He and his partner try to clarify these misconceptions whenever possible and show their patients the real proven benefits that come with seeing a chiropractor who focuses on neuro-structural correction. One of those misconceptions they hear is that people will need to continue to see a chiropractor for very long extended periods of time. Both Kody and Lily try to get their patients to a level they feel comfortable with and try to maximize their quality of day-to-day living as quickly as they can. They can minimize pain and stabilize a patient with certain types of chronic joint pain in about five to six visits on average. Each case is determined individually, and some situations require longer care. Many patients, however, choose to continue to have periodic visits to keep their new found level of optimal function. Some people also may not realize that a chiropractic neurologist can help those who have had concussions. As a result of the concussion, people tend to be sensitive to light and sound and often experience headaches. They have found in their experience that patients actually heal faster after having chiropractic neurology care.
Body and Brain Chiropractic, these doctors work as a team to address a person’s whole needs, which means looking past an X-ray. They do not solely rely on an image to pinpoint the problem, because they know and understand there can be more going on with the nervous system, which cannot be seen on X-rays but can often be determined by their thorough examination and neurological assessment. Kody states, “We check the whole nervous system function from head to toe. The extensive exam helps us determine whether the condition is more related to abnormal joint biomechanics, a nerve mechanism or both.” Lily adds, “We see people getting frustrated with previous methods of treatment. I think chiropractic neurology is the future of chiropractic care. In order to better understand how manual therapy and other non-invasive modalities affect the nervous system, we need to put a lot more emphasis on the neurology component.” All are welcome to seek care in this office, where newcomers can expect to receive a complimentary initial consultation where the doctors can assess whether it will be a good fit. Typical chiropractic visits are usually quite short, but Lily and Kody like to give their patients the time they need and schedule their appointments for about 20 minutes. Currently, they see a good mix of clients ranging from the elderly to athletes to families. There is a contact form on the website to inquire about additional information or to see about scheduling an appointment. Brain and Body Chiropractic is located at 833 E. 16th St. in Holland. For more information, visit Brain-BodyHealth.com or call 616-202-6368. See ad, page 36. Julie Reynolds is a contributing writer and has a background in advertising, teaching, writing and real estate. She can be contacted at ReynJ36@gmail.com.
natural awakenings
May 2016
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globalbriefs News and resources to inspire concerned citizens to work together in building a healthier, stronger society that benefits all.
Fouled Play
Toxic GMO Pesticides Drift Near Athletic Fields In an Environmental Working Group (EWG) survey, more than 90 percent of athletic fields and parks in six sample states are within 1,000 feet of a corn or soybean field where two toxic weed killers, glyphosate and 2,4-D, are commonly sprayed on genetically modified (GMO) corn, soybeans and other crops, meaning that nearby athletes are likely to be exposed. More than 56 percent of the facilities in the study were within 200 feet of such farmland. Corn and soybean farmers in at least 15 states now have the option of planting GMO crops that can withstand repeated spraying with Monsanto’s glyphosate and the 2,4-D mixture sold by Dow AgroSciences under the brand name Enlist Duo. Sprayed herbicides readily drift through the air, potentially exposing people and the nearby environment. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency approved the use of Enlist Duo for GMO crops shortly before the World Health Organization concluded that glyphosate, the world’s most widely used herbicide, is “probably carcinogenic to humans.” Dow’s 2,4-D also possibly causes cancer, according to leading experts; exposure has also been linked to Parkinson’s disease, hypothyroidism and suppression of the human immune system. Source: EWG.org
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West Michigan Edition
Goat Groundskeepers
A Chew Crew Gobbles Up Invasive Species The Historic Congressional Cemetery, permanent resting place of J. Edgar Hoover, John Philip Sousa and 68,000 others, is threatened by invasive species such as poison ivy, poison oak, poison sumac, kudzu and English ivy. “They are plants not native to Washington, D.C.,” says Paul Williams, president of the cemetery. “They climb and kill our trees, which then fall onto the cemetery, damaging our headstones.” Instead of using harmful herbicides that could become runoff into the nearby Anacostia River, managers have enlisted a herd of 30 goats to combat the problem. The arrangement lets the native plants grow to support pollinating insects. The University of Georgia’s Chew Crew, comprising 40 goats, is likewise tasked with getting rid of invasive species growing around urban streams on its campus, another example of the elegant, lowtech solution. Maintaining steep inclines and other hard-to-reach areas can be expensive when using toxic herbicides and physical labor. After seeing the success of the Chew Crew, Clemson University is now also using goats to naturally recover some of the more overgrown areas of its campus. Source: CNN
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Women Power
Feminists Redefine Senior Housing Fifteen years in the making, the Babayagas’ House—a feminist alternative to a retirement home—has opened in Paris. This self-managed social housing project is run by its community of inspired female senior citizens that want to maintain their independence. “To live long is a good thing, but to age well is better,” says 85-year-old Thérèse Clerc, who initially conceived the project as a means of combating the idea that growing old is an illness and that retirement homes are a kind of prison. “We want to change the way people see old age, and that means learning to live differently,” she says. The five-story building houses 25 apartments located at the center of Montreuil, just blocks away from shops, a movie theater and the metro. The project cost just under $4.4 million and was funded by eight public sources, including the city council. Two similar projects are now underway in Palaiseau and Bagneux. Source: Bust.com
Noisy Humans
Man-Made Clatter Muffles Nature’s Chorus Kurt Fristrup, a senior scientist at the U.S. National Park Service, states that noise pollution is becoming so pervasive that people are tuning out the natural sounds around them. According to new research, when we leave home, we’re more likely to try ignoring man-made sounds than enjoying Mother Nature’s chorus. Fristrup observes, “We are conditioning ourselves to ignore the information coming into our ears.” The real loss, he believes, is for future generations. “If finding peace and quiet becomes difficult enough, many children will grow up without the experience, and I think it’s a very real problem.” He and National Park Service colleagues have monitored sound levels at more than 600 sites over the past 10 years and found that none were free of human noise pollution. The team’s model of merging data from more remote regions with urban areas gave them an overall sense of the noise pollution across the U.S. Based on their findings, the researchers believe that noise pollution will grow faster than the population, doubling every 30 years. View a map of sound pollution at Tinyurl.com/SmithsonianSoundMap.
Mm-mm Good
Campbell’s Endorses GMO Labeling Campbell Soup Company recently became the first major food corporation to support the mandatory labeling of genetically modified ingredients and will support the enactment of federal legislation to establish a single mandatory labeling standard for foods derived from genetically modified organisms (GMO). A company spokesperson says, “With 92 percent of Americans supporting the labeling of GMO foods, Campbell believes now is the time for the federal government to act quickly to implement a federal solution.” The company says that if a federal solution is not reached, it is prepared to label all of its U.S. products for the presence of ingredients derived from GMOs and seek guidance from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and approval by the U. S. Department of Agriculture. The company also has pledged to remove artificial colors and flavors from nearly all of its North American products by July 2018. For more information, visit WhatsInMyFood.com.
Salmon Scam
Farmed Fish Mislabeled as Wild-Caught The nonprofit Oceana reveals that salmon, America’s favorite fish, is often mislabeled in restaurants and grocery stores. They collected 82 salmon samples from restaurants and grocery stores between December 2013 and March 2014 and found that 43 percent were mislabeled. DNA testing confirmed that the majority of the mislabeling (69 percent) consisted of farmed Atlantic salmon being sold as a wild-caught product. “Americans might love salmon, but as our study reveals, they may be falling victim to a bait-and-switch,” says Beth Lowell, a senior campaign director with Oceana. “Not only are consumers getting ripped off, but responsible U.S. fishermen are being cheated when fraudulent products lower the price for their hard-won catch.” Kimberly Warner, Ph.D., the report’s author and a senior scientist at Oceana, observes, “While U.S. fishermen catch enough salmon to satisfy 80 percent of our domestic demand, 70 percent of that catch is then exported, instead of going directly to American grocery stores and restaurants.” Source: Oceana.org
natural awakenings
May 2016
13
greenreading Paper or Electronic?
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or many, there are few things they love more than curling up with a good book. There are life-long readers, those who only read when required to read for a class and some alternate between reading several books one month and none the next. Whether literarily inclined, an avid fan of a particular author or series, an academic reader or an occasional pleasure reader, where one gets his/her hands on these resources is a topic to consider. In today’s digital world, there are numerous ways to obtain books. While many rely on the library or book store, some like the convenience of ordering online and shipping right to their door, and then there are others making the switch to ebooks, an electronic version of a printed book that can be read on a computer or handheld device designed specifically for this purpose. A great debate, then, lies in which option is best—which offers what a reader needs in an environmentally responsible way. To examine this question, one must start with the materials necessary to manufacture both e-readers and books. In a New York Times article, How Green is My iPad?, authors Daniel Goleman and Gregory Norris share that producing one e-reader extracts approximately 33 pounds of minerals, including some toxic and conflict minerals, many of which are mined in underprivileged, war-torn countries. It also uses up to 79 gallons of water and produces a large amount of waste, which is dumped in landfills. The authors then explain that producing a book from recycled paper uses about two thirds of a pound of minerals and two gallons of water. However, it’s not all good news for the book industry: combined, U.S. book and newspaper production requires the harvesting of more than 100 million trees, generates tremendous amounts of wastewater and creates a sizable carbon footprint. Once the materials are obtained, the manufacturing process can begin. In this step, Goleman and Norris share that an
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West Michigan Edition
by Amanda Grasmeyer
e-reader is “relatively energy-hungry”, using 100 kilowatt hours of fossil fuels and resulting in 66 pounds of carbon dioxide. For a single book, which, recycled or not, requires energy to form and dry the sheets, it’s just two kilowatt hours, and 100 times fewer greenhouse gasses. However, it’s important to not disregard the use of water in the manufacturing process. The newspaper and book publishing industries together consume 153 billion gallons of water annually, according to the nonprofit Green Press Initiative. It takes about seven gallons to produce the average printed book, while e-publishing companies can create a digital book with less than two cups of water. (E-book publishers consume water, like any other company, through the paper they use and other office activities.) As previously mentioned, researchers estimate that 79 gallons of water are needed to make an e-reader. Therefore, after reading about a dozen books, if water were the only issue, a reader would finally come out on top using an e-reader. In regard to transportation of e-readers or books to the consumer’s home, it’s safe to assume that, like most new electronics, e-readers will be produced abroad, and therefore shipped overseas, requiring the burning of large amounts of fossil fuels. The transportation of books, on the other hand, is difficult to track. No matter where a book is purchased, it must travel, in some way, to get to the consumer. In addition to those that traveled to consumers, though, according to Emma Ritch, author or San Francisco-based Cleantech Group, 25 to 36 percent of books produced go unsold, are returned to the publisher and incinerated, thrown away or recycled—certainly burning more fossil fuels. For the books that don’t go unread, Goleman and Norris share, “If you like to read a book in bed at night for an hour or two, the light bulb will use more energy than it takes to charge an e-reader, which has a highly energy-
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efficient screen. But if you read in daylight, the advantage tips to a book.” In their final days, disposal must be taken into consideration. Electronic waste is a growing problem. Improperly disposed electronics pose a threat to those responsible for taking them apart by hand, exposing them to numerous toxic substances. Plus, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, more than 4.6 million tons of e-waste ended up in U.S. landfills in 2000. Toxic chemicals in electronic products can leach into the land over time or are released into the atmosphere, impacting nearby communities and the environment. If incinerated, electronics release heavy metals such as lead, cadmium and mercury into the air and ashes among other horrendous environmental health threats. Regarding the disposal of books, Goleman and Norris add, “If your book ends up in a landfill, its decomposition generates double the global warming emissions and toxic impacts on local water systems as its manufacture.” After looking at the life of an ereader and a book, green reading may still be mind boggling. Breaking it down, in a report by Nick Moran of The Millions titled, Are eReaders Really Green?, he states that the average adult reads six and a half books per year and, therefore, would need to use the same e-reader for five years before the ecological footprint of reading books in print would match that of using an e-reader. What, then, is the greenest way to read? Just like re-using a travel mug is the greenest way to carry coffee on the go, re-using books that have already been read is the greenest way to read. What’s great is that they’re very easy to find and often quite inexpensive or even free. Used books can be purchased very inexpensively at garage sales and library sales, purchased online, borrowed from a local library, picked up for free from one of the many “Little Free Libraries” around West Michigan and even passed from one friend to another. While purchasing, sharing, borrowing or picking up used books won’t do the author any favors, Mother Earth will smile when the choice to do so is made. Amanda Grasmeyer is a frequent contributor to Natural Awakenings magazine.
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SPARK UP YOUR LOVE LIFE Natural Ways to Boost Libido by Lisa Marshall
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nderlying health issues aside, a hectic schedule packed with work deadlines, kids’ sporting events and household chores can leave little time for intimacy. Letting that pattern go on too long can become a problem. “There’s a use-it-or-lose-it phenomenon that occurs,” says Dr. Anita Clayton, a University of Virginia psychiatry professor, neurologist and author of Satisfaction: Women, Sex, and the Quest for Intimacy. Despite what hyper-seductive female media stereotypes suggest we believe, in the real world, 39 percent of women feel they lack sex drive, and nearly half experience some kind of sexual dissatisfaction, according to a survey of 32,000 women published in the journal Obstetrics & Gynecology. About one in eight women are significantly distressed about it. “The truth is, many of us don’t have great sex lives,” confirms Clayton. Sprout Pharmaceuticals introduced Addyi, aka filbanserin, last fall; the first prescription drug to address low libido in women. Some heralded the controversial medication as “the little pink pill,” seeing it as the female version of males’ blue Viagra pill, which a halfmillion men purchased in its first month on the market in 1998. Yet several
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West Michigan Edition
months after its launch, only about 1,000 women had tried Addyi and many doctors declined to prescribe it, due to its lack of widespread efficacy and possible adverse side effects, including low blood pressure and fainting when combined with alcohol. “This is a complex problem that requires a complex solution,” says Honolulu-based naturopathic physician Laurie Steelsmith, author of Great Sex Naturally: Every Woman’s Guide to Enhancing Her Sexuality Through the Secrets of Natural Medicine. “For most women, drugs are not the answer.” She notes that for men, boosting libido is largely a matter of boosting circulation and blood flow to the penis. But for women, desire for lovemaking stems from an interplay of emotional, interpersonal, hormonal and anatomical drivers that make lack of desire harder to “treat”. The truth is that many simple, effective, non-drug approaches exist. As Boulder, Colorado, marriage therapist Michele Weiner Davis puts it, “There’s no reason why a woman wanting a more robust sex life cannot have one.”
Overall Health Check
The number one culprit for low libido in women is subpar physical health, says Steelsmith. “To be capable of fully
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enjoying pleasure, you need a healthy body.” Carrying excess weight can both erode self-esteem and lead to reductions in a woman’s natural circulating testosterone, a critical hormone that helps ignite pleasure circuits in the female brain and increase sensitivity in the clitoris. Being underweight can result in fatigue and low sexual energy, diminished production of excitatory brain chemicals and low levels of estrogen, key for keeping a woman moist. Meanwhile, Steelsmith explains, excess stress can prompt the body to “steal” from libido-boosting hormones like progesterone in order to make more of the stress-hormone cortisol. High blood sugar can drive down testosterone, while high cholesterol can clog pelvic blood vessels, dulling sensation. Depression, diabetes and thyroid disorders are other major libido killers, says Clayton. “If you treat them effectively, you may see big improvements.” Women seeking to improve their sexual health should first try to achieve a healthy weight via diet and exercise, Steelsmith says. She recommends an organic diet rich in complex carbohydrates (which keep blood sugar balanced), lean protein (a precursor to desire-related neurotransmitters) and good fats (which help keep vulval tissues lubricated). Exercise—another circulation booster—is also key. Do it before a scheduled hot date for even better results. One 2014 study of 52 women found that those that worked out prior to an anticipated romantic encounter had significantly increased sexual desire.
Pamper Femaleness
Many women avoid sexual encounters for fear of sparking a urinary tract or vaginal infection. This becomes more common after age 40, as estrogen wanes and pelvic tissue thins and dries, leaving it more vulnerable to microbial invaders. Because semen is alkaline, it changes a woman’s vaginal pH, allowing unfriendly bacteria to thrive, says Steelsmith. Her advice: Always go to the bathroom and urinate after intercourse, and use natural lubricants, like vitamin E. For some women, she also recommends low-dose, prescription estrogen cream or suppositories.
If an infection occurs, try to treat it naturally, avoiding antibiotics, which can spark yeast overgrowth. Instead, Steelsmith recommends using tea tree oil, goldenseal, or probiotic douches or suppositories, available online and at health food stores. Kegel exercises are a famous aid, involving clamping down as if interrupting urine flow, before releasing and repeating. This not only help fends off urinary incontinence and infection, it also strengthens and firms pelvic muscles, rendering enhanced enjoyment for both partners.
that’s not spontaneous enough,’” says Weiner Davis. “But even if you put it on the calendar, what you do with that time can still be spontaneous and playful.” While most women assume that they need to be in the mood first, research by University of British Columbia Psychiatrist Rosemary Basson suggests that in some women, desire only comes after physical arousal, especially by a loving partner that takes the time to meet her needs. “I wish I had a dollar for each time someone said to me, ‘I’m not in the mood, but once I get into it, I surprise myself, because I have a really good time,’” says Weiner Davis. She’s not advising women to make love when they really don’t want to, but rather to be open to it even when the circumstances aren’t ideal. “A lot of women feel like the house has to be clean, with the kids asleep and free of distracting noises,” she says. “Sometimes, just do it.”
Is Sex Essential? Make Time for Intimacy
Research has shown that over time, frequent lovemaking actually causes structural changes in certain areas of the brain as new connections form and sex-related regions grow stronger. Stop, and those areas atrophy, making physical intimacy feel awkward once it’s resurrected. A sexless relationship can also be emotionally devastating for the person, often the male, that wants more contact, says Weiner Davis, author of The Sex-Starved Marriage: Boosting Your Marriage Libido. “For the spouse yearning for touch, it is a huge deal,” she says. “It’s about feeling wanted, attractive and loved.” In her practice, she often sees couples that are mismatched in how they wish to demonstrate and receive love. Often, the woman wants to feel close emotionally before she can feel close physically. For the man, physical intimacy is a conduit for opening up emotionally. When both keep waiting to get what they want, the relationship suffers. She counsels couples to deliberately make time to address both partners’ needs. Schedule a long walk or intimate dinner to talk over feelings; also schedule sex. “Some people say, ‘Oh, but
Clayton points out that while 42 percent of women experience either low sex drive or satisfaction, fewer than 12 percent are really bothered by it. “Some women experience great grief and loss about this. They say, ‘It used to be a part of my life and now it’s gone.’” For some in this subset that are unable to find relief via lifestyle changes, she would recommend Addyi, said to boost desire by changing brain chemicals. On the other hand, many women don’t need to take any action at all. “If someone has low sex drive and it doesn’t matter to them or their partner, it’s not a problem.” That said, the benefits of attending to an affectionate, healthy sex life can go far beyond the bedroom, improving overall health and strengthening relationships, notes Steelsmith. Sex burns calories, increases circulation, releases calming and painkilling hormones like prolactin and prompts production of the “bonding hormones” vasopressin and oxytocin. “When you are in a loving relationship and you express that love through your body, physiological changes occur that can help you bond more deeply with your partner,” she says. “The more you make love, the more love you make.” Lisa Marshall is a freelance health writer in Boulder, CO. Connect at LisaAnnMarshall.com.
Five Common Libido Killers Birth Control Pills: Oral contraceptives can boost levels of sex hormone-binding globulin, which attaches to desire-promoting testosterone, making it harder for the body to access it. Antidepressants: Numerous antidepressant medications have been shown to decrease libido, but leaving depression untreated can kill sex drive even more; consider natural alternatives. Smoking: It impairs circulation to genitals. Alcohol: Too much alcohol lowers sexual response. Caffeine: Excess caffeine can erode levels of testosterone, which is vital for driving desire. Sources: Laurie Steelsmith, ND, and research studies
Nature’s Libido-Enhancers L-arginine: Boosts blood flow to sexual organs. Can be taken in supplement form or applied topically. Chinese ginseng (Panax ginseng): Considered a sexual tonic in Chinese medicine for its ability to stabilize sexual energy over time; also used to address vaginal dryness. Epimedium (horny goat weed): Said to stimulate nerves in genitals, support adrenal glands and boost levels of feel-good brain chemicals. Phenylethylamine: Sometimes referred to as the “romance chemical”, this stimulant and mood elevator is naturally released in the brain when we have an orgasm, exercise or eat chocolate; also available in supplement form. Maca: A Peruvian root used for centuries in that country to promote sexual energy, Maca is said to boost production of libido-boosting hormones. Source: Laurie Steelsmith, ND
natural awakenings
May 2016
19
healingways
Solutions for a Sluggish Thyroid Keying in on Iodine by Kathleen Barnes
I
t seems that a common mineral supplement that costs just pennies per day can stimulate an underactive thyroid, restore metabolism to normal levels, curb excess appetite, banish fatigue and generally improve everyone’s health. Mounting scientific evidence shows that iodine may be an answer to many such health woes, especially for women. “The thyroid acts as a throttle, the gas pedal for all metabolic functions in the human body,” says Dr. Richard Shames, of San Rafael, California, author of Thyroid Mind Power. If the thyroid is a driving force of human physiology, then iodine is its key fuel, says Dr. Robert Thompson, of Soldotna, Alaska, author of What Doctors Fail to Tell You About Iodine & Your Thyroid. “Every single cell in your body depends on thyroid hormone, and the thyroid depends on iodine for proper functioning.” “Without sufficient thyroid hormone, we have low energy, slower metabolism, lower immunity to illness and impaired repair and maintenance of bones and joints,” explains Shames. After testing thousands of patients in his practice, Thompson estimates that 90 percent of North Americans are iodine deficient, citing what he calls
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West Michigan Edition
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“epidemic proportions” of hypothyroidism (low thyroid function) with symptoms comprising obesity, fatigue, brain fog, irregular or absent menstrual periods, hair loss and heat and cold intolerance.
Major Culprits
Estrogen: Hypothyroidism is overwhelmingly a women’s disease, with women five to eight times more likely to suffer from it than men, according to the American Thyroid Association. “Estrogen inhibits the body’s natural ability to absorb and utilize iodine,” says Dr. Jorge Flechas, of Hendersonville, North Carolina, who specializes in thyroid disorders. “We find three periods in life when women need more iodine: at puberty and during both pregnancy and perimenopause or menopause. It’s because estrogen levels tend to fluctuate wildly at those times, neutralizing the ability of iodine gained through select foods to balance thyroid and other hormones.” Flechas prescribes iodine supplements for most women at all three stages of life. Toxic halogens: Iodine belongs to a group of halogens that includes chlorine, bromine and fluorine, three chemicals that are both toxic to the human body and block its ability
to absorb iodine, since the report and, Nine in 10 North explains Thompson. “Factory farming and “They’re everywhere, Americans may be the use of genetically in our air, water and food. modified (GMO) crops, iodine deficient. It’s nearly impossible Roundup herbicide and to avoid them,” reports ~ Dr. Robert Thompson synthetic chemical fertilShames, a longtime izers have undoubtedly advocate in the movement against the worsened the situation.” common practice of adding fluoride (a Sources of Iodine derivative of fluorine) and chlorine to It’s difficult to include sufficient natural municipal water. Fluoride is also added iodine in our daily diet unless we folto many brands of toothpaste. Bromide is low a Japanese-style diet that includes part of almost all commercial flour and lots of seaweed and saltwater fish, says flour products, as well as soft drinks. Shames. Other food sources are shell Shames offers an historic insight. fish, turkey, cheese, yogurt, milk, eggs, “Fluoride was once used to slow down an overactive thyroid, as recommended legumes, cranberries and strawberries. There is little agreement about the by the physicians’ bible, the Merck optimal levels of iodine people need. Manuals. Now we’re putting it in the The U.S. Department of Agriculture water supply and wondering why we maintains that we need 150 microhave a mushrooming epidemic of low grams a day, but iodine advocates are thyroid incidence.” quick to point out that a person eating Food: “So-called ‘iodized’ salt a typical Japanese diet (where hypothydoesn’t contain much usable iodine, roidism, or low thyroid activity, is rare) and neither does pink Himalyan sea ingests 12.5 milligrams of iodine each salt,” Shames cautions. day—83 times the amount recommend We’ve known that our soil is ed by the government. deficient in essential minerals such as Shames recommends getting an iodine since at least 1936, when a speiodine lab test (available without a cial U.S. Senate report concluded that prescription at CanaryClub.org) to our soil was already severely depleted. determine exact needs. Thompson rec“This simply means that when we grow produce, the plants cannot extract these ommends potassium iodide and sodium iodide supplements for thyroid health. vital nutrients from the soil for us—including iodine—if those nutrients aren’t there in the first place,” says Thompson. Kathleen Barnes is author of numerous If anything, he adds, U.S. soils have be- natural health books, including User’s Guide to Thyroid Disorders. come even more sterile in the 80 years
Thyroid Toxins to Avoid Fluorine/fluoride n Fluoridated toothpaste n Unfiltered municipal drinking water n Some bottled teas n Teflon pans n Mechanically deboned chicken Chlorine/chloride n Virtually all municipal water n Swimming pools, spas n Poultry chilled in chlorinated water to kill bacteria n Chlorine bleaches and other conventional household cleaners Bromine/bromide n Flour and flour products, except those labeled “unbrominated” n Soft drinks n Pesticides with methyl bromide n Plastics n Fire retardants in children’s nightwear and some furniture n Spa disinfectants Source: What Doctors Fail to Tell You About Iodine & Your Thyroid, by Dr. Robert Thompson.
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May 2016
21
fitbody
FACIAL FITNESS Exercises to Tone Your Face and Neck by Kathleen Barnes
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ravity takes its toll as years pass, and many women find themselves bemoaning crow’s feet, frown lines and turkey necks that make them look older than they feel. Experts point to the loss of “fat pads” in the cheeks, bone loss around the eye sockets and cheekbones and overall weak muscles as potential contributors to facial aging. Natural exercise programs designed to reverse these unpleasant signs of aging comprise a new fitnessfor-beauty trend. “Face and neck muscles somehow have been left out of mainstream fitness programs,” observes Denver esthetician and massage therapist Grace Mosgeller, who addresses this void with her series of eight FaceFitnez audio and video exercises. “If you tone the muscles of your face and neck, the skin attached to those muscles firms and tones as well, creating a natural youthful look.” Muscular stress—the good kind—is at the core of facial fitness, says Mosgeller. She cite’s Wolff’s Law, a wellknown medical theory that bone grows and remodels in response to the tension or muscle engagement put on it. “Regular facial exercise works the muscles to correct the loss of both muscle tone and bone density and build collagen. It might be called the equivalent of pushups, pull-ups and abdominal tucks for the face.”
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Carolyn Cleaves, owner of Carolyn’s Facial Fitness, in Seabeck, Washington, near Seattle, a former college professor, developed a facial exercise program for herself upon detecting early signs of aging. With the help of two primary care physicians, she designed a routine that includes 28 basic exercises that target all 57 facial muscles. “As we get older, we lose the underlying layer of fat just beneath the skin, and as a result, we look old and tired,” says Cleaves. She agrees that exercising the face actually helps rebuild lost bone, enlarges the muscles and also builds collagen. A study from the University of Rochester, in New York, confirms that loss of bone mass can start in women as early as age 40. It starts in men 16 to 25 years later. Mosgeller’s facial exercises work to fade wrinkles and lines and firm up sagging flesh, yielding visible results in as little as two weeks of dedicated training. She says, “Within six to nine months, it’s possible to look five to 10 years younger than when you started.” Her claims are verified by Dr. Carol Lipper, in Denver, who states, “I’ve done the exercises and they work. The trouble is compliance. It’s a lot of work.” She confirms that she saw improvement in her droopy eyelids after just two or three weeks of adhering to Mosgeller’s workouts.
“It seems that every three months or so, I see another leap in results and a younger look,” adds Cleaves of those using her program. Here are a few crucial areas to target, with just a few of these experts’ recommended remedies. Cleaves’ Crow’s Feet Eliminator: Place fingertips on top of the head, thumbs resting near the corners of the eyes. Shut eyes tightly and slide thumbs toward the temples for a count of five. Repeat 10 times.
Mosgeller’s Rx for Droopy Eyelids: Place index finger on top of a closed eyelid, and then lift fingers up and slightly to the outside. Blink hard and hold. It’s preventive, as well as curative, says Mosgeller, so those over 45 should repeat this 100 times a day, while younger individuals should repeat 20 to 50 times a day. Mosgeller’s Frown Line Eraser: Pull brows apart with fingers and hold for
two seconds. Repeat 50 to 100 times up to six times per week. This is meant to relax and tone the muscles, not build them. Cleaves’ Turkey Neck Buster: Tilt the head back slightly. With palm facing the neck, grasp under the chin with a wide-open hand and slowly slide hand down to the collarbone; hold there while counting to 10. Repeat five times daily. Kathleen Barnes is author and publisher of many natural health books. Connect at KathleenBarnes.com.
natural awakenings
May 2016
23
Small Shifts Can Drop Pounds and Gain Health
pounds in two weeks,” she says, “and I didn’t feel like I was on a diet.” Eating a big salad for lunch is a habit that author Victoria Moran, host of the award-winning Main Street Vegan online radio show, has adopted in her New York City home. She fills a big bowl with leafy greens, in-season vegetables, avocado and a light dressing. “This will set you up for the rest of the day,” says Moran. Pam Anderson, a mainstream food blogger in Darien, Connecticut, agrees. Six years ago, she lost 50 pounds and credits having a big green salad for lunch—one of her many small food habit changes—with helping her maintain a healthy weight, despite frequently testing and sampling recipes.
by Judith Fertig
Food Thought Habits
consciouseating
How to Reboot Your Eating Habits
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ur food habits are often just that—mindless, repetitious eating behaviors. Some serve us well; others, not so much. Natural Awakenings asked experts to serve up many doable small changes that can add up to big shifts. According to Brian Wansink, Ph.D., the John S. Dyson professor of marketing at Cornell University and author of Mindless Eating, changing just one lifestyle habit can eliminate two or more pounds each week. By changing up to three habits, we may lose more weight. At a minimum, we will likely improve the quality of the food we eat overall.
Buying Behaviors
Wansink advises that having the only food on our kitchen counter be fruit encourages healthy snacking. At work, he suggests lunching away from our desk to discourage mindless eating. At restaurants, order half-size entrees, and then add a maximum of two items, such as soup and bread, salad and side dish or an appetizer and dessert. He recommends using a food shopping strategy to fill the cart with better food. With hunger sated first, chew on a natural gum while shopping; it discourages buying junk food. Secondly, habitually fill the front of the cart with produce. “We eat what we see,” he says. 24
West Michigan Edition
Food Choices
Consider starting the day with a new coffee habit. Dave Asprey, of Los Angeles, author of The Bulletproof Diet, uses organic coffee, brews with filtered water and blends the hot coffee with a pat of unsalted, grass-fed butter, a fat high in vitamins and omega-3 essential fatty acids, and a small spoonful of a coconut oil that doesn’t congeal at room temperature. Unlike a drive-through latte with sugar and carbohydrates, he maintains that this type of coffee, “makes you feel energized, focused and full for hours.” Asprey takes a biohacker’s approach to natural biology-based ways to maximize physical and mental performance. New York City writer Chris Gayomali tried Asprey’s recipe for two weeks. Although it didn’t curb his appetite, he says he felt more alert and “ready for life.” Upgrading the foods we love is also possible, says David Wann, of Golden, Colorado, author of Simple Prosperity. “Too often, we economize on food when we should be buying the best quality, freshest organic food we can,” he says. Rebecca Miller, who lives near Kansas City, Missouri, took Wann’s advice and cut costs in other ways instead. To her delight, she found that the fresher, better-tasting food prompted her to eat less, but eat better. “I lost seven
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Doing too much for other people and not enough for ourselves can make our internal voice whisper, “I need comfort,” a thought that can generate overeating. In The Perfect Recipe for Losing Weight and Eating Great, Anderson suggests we ask ourselves what other triggers are prompting poor food habits. Upon reflection, we can prioritize emotional and physical health with planned, smaller, varied, healthy, delicious meals; it’s a habit that works for her. Elizabeth Lombardo, Ph.D., a psychologist in Lake Forest, Illinois, and bestselling author of Better Than Perfect, assures, “If we fall off the healthy eating wagon, it’s not failure, it’s data.” She believes reaching for the chocolate chip cookies in the vending machine after a stressful morning should be viewed from a scientific standpoint, not via our inner finger-pointing judge. “What are the factors that influenced our decision: stress, hunger or a desire for distraction? That’s great information,” says Lombardo. She proposes that we can then prepare to counter a future snack attack with handy healthy bites, a mindfulness break, a quick walk outside or other naturally healthful stress-relievers. Changing our food habits, one at a time, can help us live better going forward. Judith Fertig is the author of awardwinning cookbooks and blogs at AlfrescoFoodAndLifestyle.blogspot.com from Overland Park, KS.
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upermodel extraordinaire Christie Brinkley looks as amazing in her 60s as she did when she first graced the cover of Sports Illustrated nearly 40 years ago. In a new book, Timeless Beauty, Brinkley reveals her anti-aging secrets, many of which involve reliance on healthful foods, a positive attitude, exercise and good skin care. Much of what she’s learned is reflected in her line of Christie Brinkley Authentic Skincare. Here, she shares some highlights of how she keeps her mind and body healthy.
Why did you become a vegetarian at age 14? When I was 13, I picked up a book from the nightstand in my parents’ bedroom called Miami and the Siege of Chicago by Norman Mailer. I happened to open to a page with a highly graphic description of Midwest slaughterhouses. What I read turned my stomach because I loved animals and wanted no part in this inhumane system. I swore at that moment I would never eat another piece of meat and have not done so since. For the past 49 years I have enjoyed the resulting good karma in the form of healthful benefits from avoiding the antibiotics, growth hormones and fats associated with a carnivorous diet.
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Was it tougher to maintain your natural standards as your career became filled with travel and tight schedules? After I first became a vegetarian kid living at home, I soon convinced my family to go vegetarian, too. I read a lot of books to learn how to replace meat protein with healthier choices. Through the early years, as I continued to learn about options, I tried many kinds of vegetarian, macrobiotic and vegan approaches. Once I started modeling in seashore locations, it seemed natural to me to add bits of fresh fish and some dairy; so for the most part I have been a lacto ichthyo variation of vegetarian. I raised my children as vegetarians, and recently my daughter, Sailor, and I took the next step to become mostly vegan. I allow myself a little mozzarella and an occasional salmon dish when my body is craving it, because I think we need to listen to what our body needs. After the environmental disasters of the BP oil spill in the Gulf, made worse by toxic dispersants, and the Fukushima nuclear plant meltdown that pumped radioactive isotopes into the Pacific, I am extra-cautious about the salmon I choose and don’t eat other seafood. I’m lucky that as a model, my
career has naturally kept me aware of the amount of sugar I consume, limiting its effects on skin and overall health as well as weight.
How much of anti-aging do you believe is tied to mental and emotional health? Growing old gracefully is all about the positive energy that you use to power through your day and project to others. Happiness is a youthful quality and a smile is always our best accessory; it’s also been proven to release feel-good endorphins. When you take good care of yourself by eating right and exercising, you naturally feel better about yourself. If we’re feeling down, stressed or depressed, we’re tempted to eliminate exercise, which is the very thing that could lift us up and make us feel better. The more we move, the merrier we are.
Because you also recognize the importance of treating the body well from the outside as well as from the inside, what other practices do you apply? With everything we know about how the sun can damage our skin, it’s crucial to use a moisturizer with a broad ultraviolet spectrum blocker of both UVA and UVB rays to prevent wrinkles and hyperpigmented spots. I created my own skin care line that offers an SPF 30 broad-spectrum moisturizer that also defends against infrared rays [IR], which represent more than half of the sun’s damaging rays that reach Earth. IR emissions also come from manmade objects such as computers and cell phones. Beyond that, I wanted a product that takes advantage of our body’s own circadian rhythms, using special peptides that help the body build collagen and elastin as we sleep and repair. Using a gentle exfoliating scrub is also key, a step many people overlook; I’ve included it in my daily skin care routine for 30 years. Gerry Strauss is a freelance writer in Hamilton, NJ. Connect at GerryStrauss@aol.com.
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Picture Your Future Creating a Vision Board Makes Dreams Real by Jayne Morris
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West Michigan Edition
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ision boards, a powerful tool for transformation, comprise a collage of pictures, phrases, poems and quotes that visually represent what we would like to experience more of in life. Building one works to uncover hidden desires and inner guidance that help clarify the details of a roadmap to our future. Anyone can create one in a few hours. The layout may be intuitive, placing pieces where feelings direct; circles within circles like a mandala; or in titled, pie-shaped segments arranged in the form of a wheel. Board basics: Choose a large piece of poster board, corkboard or canvas the size of an unfolded newspaper. Gather pens, scissors, glue or pins, sticky tape and a current selfie. Gather 10 to 20 magazines ranging from women’s and men’s fashion, health and fitness to hobbies, house and garden and travel, including animals representing specific character traits. Pick topics that resonate, uplift and inspire, energize or bring relaxation. Beauty salons, libraries and community centers like to clear out old issues; an alternative is to assemble images by using a computer. Prepare a space: Find a quiet, relaxing spot, free of disturbances and distractions. Mindset magic: Let go of ought-tos, shoulds and musts. Rest assured that feeling the desire to be good, to do good or have something good in our life means we can make it happen, even if we do not yet know how. Flick, snip and stick: Have fun seeing what jumps out and catches your attention while riffling through the magazine pages. Clip and place these images in a pile, and then sort out those that feel really right.
A vision board clarifies our deepest desires. Arrange: Experiment with the positioning and relationships of words and images until it feels good. Take a photograph as a reference. Affix pieces either so they can be repositioned or permanent, leaving spaces to symbolize an openness to receiving more ideas. Purpose Statement: Play with words that describe desired values and qualities to eventually shape an inspiring affirmation representing cherished personal aspirations for the year ahead.
Place this next to the selfie and other key personal photos in the center of the board and reinforce its verity by daily repeating it. Pride of place: Prominently display the board where it will be visible throughout the day. The more time we spend with our board, the more movement we’ll make toward our goals and the faster they’ll become our reality. Activate: Sit with the board and connect with its opportunities. Visual-
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ize being, doing, having and experiencing everything shown, as if they are already an intimate part of daily life. This living, breathing idea grows with us, and a companion gratitude journal can support us in acknowledging our progress. Jayne Morris is the author of Burnout to Brilliance: Strategies for Sustainable Success, from which this was adapted. Learn more at JayneMorris.com.
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by Linda Sechrist
Two-Way Mentoring
Providing nurturing opportunities for individuals to look at life through the eyes of others with dissimilar experiences that have led them to different assumptions and perspectives on life can be helpful. Broadening everyone’s relation-
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ship scope to include “May-December” friendships creates the potential for the kind of life-changing possibilities experienced by a troubled young man named Harold when he struck up a surprising friendship with a life-loving woman as old as his grandmother in the film Harold and Maude. In real life, “I had the blessing of growing up in an intergenerational family,” says Yvette McGlasson, director of port revenue for the PPI Group, in Pompano, Florida. The 17-year veteran of the cruise industry is a former Holland America cruise director whose career at sea launched her into work as a director of events for age-restricted (55-plus) gated communities such as Del Webb Lake Providence, near Nashville. “As a child, I was told I had to listen to my elders as a sign of respect. The many memorable times spent with my grandparents, my mother’s friends and a great aunt who lived to 101, soon turned my resignation into an active desire to spend time with my elders. Their experiences and wisdom were fascinating and I understood that their shared
life lessons could If you only talk to people order to leverage the prove invaluable to unique gifts of every like you, you’ll never generation in adme,” says McGlasson. The experience dressing humanity’s learn anything new. inspired her to demost critical issues,” velop a multigenerasays Brown. ~Albert Einstein tional “grandparents Such converat-large” partnership with an elementary sations—in which elders and young school across the street from the Del people give up the cultural and societal Webb community. The school principal norms and habits that shape so much recognized that residents would be valu- of their thinking—offer both groups able mentors, able to fill an emotional opportunities to discern the possibilities void for the latchkey kids of working inherent in mutual insight, innovation parents, plus foster a deeper appreciaand action. tion for their elders among the children. When a young Clarissa Tufts, pro “In this paradigm of mentorship, gram coordinator and family liaison for young people are mentoring their the SelfDesign Learning Community, elders and elders are mentoring young in British Columbia, was working on people and together, we’re co-creating her master’s degree from the SelfDesomething new,” says Joshua Gorman, sign Graduate Institute, she sought out the founder of Generation Waking Up, mentor Anne Adams, a faculty member based in Oakland, California. in her 70s who worked with Tufts for 18 months. “Anne’s earliest statements, ‘I’m here to support you in being the Facilitating Connections best you can be’ and Since launching their first multigeneraWhat should young ‘I get energized by with young tional initiative at the people do with their talking people and hearing Shambhala Institute lives today? Many their ideas,’ felt good in 2004, partnering and let me know that across age groups has things, obviously. we were both benefitbeen at the forefront of But the most daring ting from our relationJuanita Brown and David Isaacs’ work as co- thing is to create stable ship and building together,” founders and hosts of communities in which something says Tufts. the World Café global the terrible disease of Stimulatlearning community. “We cultivate collabo- loneliness can be cured. ing cooperation and collaboration among ration through conver~Kurt Vonnegut generations evokes sations that matter in
by Linda Sechrist
H
Linda Sechrist is a senior staff writer for Natural Awakenings. Connect at ItsAllAboutWe.com.
Lend yourself to
others, but give yourself to yourself. ~Michel de Montaigne
The more you
praise and celebrate your life, the more there is in life to celebrate.
Multigenerational Cohousing aving regular positive interactions with family and friends and being involved in several different social networks can help older adults be healthier, according to recent research published by the American Psychological Association. This fact inspired the intergenerational living model embodied by Cleveland’s Judson Manor retirement community. Resident students attending the Cleveland Institutes of Art and Music teach older residents how to use comput-
the vibrancy, energy and productivity that occur when people crosspollinate ideas and perspectives. It can also provide a sense of purpose, improve confidence and social skills, create solutions to societal challenges, help resolve emotional and behavioral problems and lift depression, all enhancing productive engagement in life.
ers for email, social media and Skype, with unlimited personal access included among the amenities associated with the affordable housing. These neighbors from different generations also join in art projects and attend movies together. This innovative approach helps solve the housing crisis faced by many cities while addressing social issues of isolation as the young people spontaneously converse with seniors about their studies, activities and other happenings in the outside world.
~Oprah Winfrey
natural awakenings
May 2016
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greenliving
Tips for the Best Yard Sale Ever How to Profitably Give Unwanted Stuff a New Life by Sarah Tarver-Wahlquist
NaturallyWestMI
E
ach American discards an average of 4.4 pounds of personal garbage a day according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Half of what we toss can be recycled. A yard sale can both clear out the clutter and keep reusable items in circulation.
Assemble Merchandise
In assembling merchandise from all around the house, make it a family affair, with everyone contributing things to consider together. Before putting any item in the “keep” pile, ask: How long have I lived with this? How often did I need it? How often will I use it now and in the future? Check with neighbors and friends to see if they want to join in a multifamily sale likely to draw more potential buyers.
Advertise
Getting the word out is essential. Place a yard sale listing in a local newspaper, either for free or a small fee. Free online posting is available at Craigslist.org 32
West Michigan Edition
NaturalWestMichigan.com
and GarageSaleHunter.com. Also, post flyers (on recycled paper) seven to 10 days before the sale along busy streets in the community. On the event day, make sure that large, bright signs in the neighborhood lead buyers to the sale. Reuse cardboard from old boxes to save money and recycle signs and flyers afterwards. Cindy Skrzynecki, of Minneapolis, who has monitored the phenomenon, notes, “Shoppers tend to equate the size of a sign with the size of a sale, so a few large, well-placed signs may draw more people to you than several smaller signs.” Skrzynecki says that holiday weekends or weekends that coincide with popular local events are excellent because, “You’ll provide a fun activity for people that stay in town.”
Set Up
How items are displayed is important. Here’s how to make old stuff as attractive as possible to buyers. The cleaner the better. Make sure all items are presentable.
Make items visible. Arrange a display that’s catchy and organized. Use tabletops and bookcases; even improvised surfaces can work, such as plywood atop buckets. Show clothing effectively. Hangers are better than folded piles that get messy. Does this thing work? Have an extension cord handy so people can test electrical devices, and provide a measuring tape for furniture and other large items. Have batteries on hand for testing items like flashlights or electronic games. Label things that don’t work and price accordingly for those that know how to fix things or strip parts. Ensure the price is right. All items should be clearly priced via a small sticker; buyers quickly tire of asking and sellers may not recall earlier answers. For multiple sellers, use a different colored sticker for each, remove the stickers as items sell, and use the totals from the stickers to divide profits at day’s end. Use creative labeling. Provide buyers with uses for odd items. Sunny Wicka, author of Garage Sale Shopper, says, “Sales can be made solely by suggesting a novel use.” Also spark the shopper’s imagination by combining art supplies—like old magazines, papers, markers, paints and knickknacks—on a table labeled “Great for Art!” or group household items, crates and blankets labeled “Going Away to College?” Prepare for early birds. Yard sale pros arrive early to scour sales for the best deals. Be prepared to bargain or else make it clear that prices are fixed via a few friendly signs.
After the initial rush, consider accepting bargain offers. During the final hour, consider cutting prices in half.
Ready, Set, Sell
Summer and early fall are good times for yard sales. Make it exceptional, a place where people will have fun and want to hang around (more browsing time often means more purchases). Play upbeat music, set up a children’s play area and maybe a kids’ lemonade stand as cool drinks help keep shoppers refreshed and cheerful. Consider sharing the fruits of family hobbies such as homemade items, plant cuttings or herbs in hand-painted clay pots and cut flowers. Shoppers appreciate such personal touches.
Arrange for the Aftermath
Center for Women in Transition,
Grand Haven, cwitmi.org, 616-392-2829
Love INC, Grand Haven, LoveINCTriCities.org, 616-846-2701 In The Image, Grand Rapids, InTheImage.org, 616-456-6150
The Salvation Army, Grand Rapids, SalvationArmyUSA.org, 800-728-7825 Women’s Resource Center, Grand Rapids, grwrc.org, 616-458-5443
Youth For Christ, Holland, wmyfc.org,
Arrange a charity donation pick-up beforehand to truck away leftover items. The Salvation Army and Vietnam Veterans of America regularly move still useful items into welcoming homes. For those that enjoy throwing yard sales, consider organizing charity yard sales in the community. Engage a local place of worship, neighborhood association or school to help people recycle their old stuff while also raising funds for worthy causes. Sarah Tarver-Wahlquist is a frequent contributor to Green American magazine (GreenAmerica.org), from which this was adapted. For more tips, visit YardSaleQueen.com/yardsale.htm.
Places that Accept Charitable Donations
616-396-3949
Love INC, Hudsonville, LoveInTheNameOfChrist.org, 616-662-3300 Goodwill of Southwestern Michigan,
Kalamazoo, GoodwillSWMI.org, 269-382-0490
Hope Chest, Muskegon, HopeProjectUSA.org, 231-747-8555 Muskegon Rescue Mission, Muskegon, MuskegonMission.org, 231-727-6090
Goodwill Industries of West Michigan, Inc., Norton Shores, GoodwillWM. org, 231-798-2817
Portage Community Center,
Portage, PortageCommunityCenter.org, 269-323-1942
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West Michigan Edition
naturalpet
Stressed-Out Pets Natural Ways to Calm Fear and Anxiety by Sandra Murphy
W
hile most American pets live on easy street, with meals, treats, exercise outings and affection provided, the good life also poses challenges—dogs and cats can get stressed. “Basic stress is fearbased. Separation or isolation anxiety requires in-depth training,” says JennaLee Gallicchio, a certified separation anxiety trainer who uses scientific and hands-off techniques at her All Stars Dog Training, in Bedminster, New Jersey. She authors a bestselling series that was launched with The Secret to Getting Your Dog to Do What You Want. A drug like Reconcile, the pet version of Prozac, looks like a quick fix, but can bring many harmful side effects. Laurel Braitman, Ph.D., of Sausalito, California, bestselling author of Animal Madness: How Anxious Dogs, Compulsive Parrots, and Elephants in Recovery Help Us Understand Ourselves, estimates that 70 million U.S. dogs are given the same drugs their humans use for anxiety or depression. Considering the potential dangers, such drugs should only be used briefly as a last resort with veterinary supervision to ensure the proper dosage based on age, size and temperament. There are more natural and safer alternatives.
Common Stressors
Dogs hear sounds at four times the distance we do; cats hear even better. Thunderstorms, fireworks, traffic, TV, music and children can unnerve them.
NaturalWestMichigan.com
Add in a new home, baby, another pet or anticipation of car rides associated with fear of the veterinarian and even normally mellow pets can get upset. Irregular work hours undermine established routines. Pet or human health issues, plus household drama, add special reasons to fret. Pets separated from their litters too early can experience anxiety as adults.
Stress Less Strategies
“Let your dog have a space where he can retreat when he’s had enough,” advises Dr. Carol Osborne, owner of Ohio’s Chagrin Falls Veterinary Center & Pet Clinic. She recommends Bach’s Five Flower Formula, diluted chamomile essential oil or a pet-safe tincture of the Chinese herb skullcap for additional relief. Dogs like routine. “Regular exercise helps, including two, 20-minute daily walks. A tired pet is a happy pet,” Osborne says. “Walks can eliminate stress and anxiety by 50 percent for you both.” “Cats need exercise that mimics hunting; cats stare and plan, stalk or chase, pounce and grab,” says Marci Koski, certified by the Animal Behavior Institute and owner of Feline Behavior Solutions, in Vancouver, Washington. “An indoor cat’s prey drive can be met with interactive toys.” A place to climb or hide and a window with a view will help as will periodic playtime catching moving toys; with nothing to catch, a laser
pointer’s red dots are frustrating for a cat and a potential danger to its eyes. “Two of my large dogs were anxious during a three-day power outage,” says Kimberly Gauthier, a dog nutrition blogger at KeepTheTailWagging.com, in Marysville, Washington. “I add Ewegurt, a sheep’s milk yogurt, to their food to calm them when needed.” Clicker training rewards desired behaviors. “Ralphie, an Italian greyhound mix, was protective, but also fearful; before going outside, we’d practice sit, stay and come using a click/treat. Now he sees other dogs without reacting,” relates Katrina Wilhelm, a naturopathic physician and owner of DrKatrinaWilhelm.com, in Lake Oswego, Oregon. It works when someone knocks on the door, too. Soothing music covers the sounds of storms and fireworks, counsels Lisa Spector, an award-winning concert pianist in
THINK BEFORE YOU BUY:
Getting kitty into her carrier to go to the vet isn’t always easy. London’s Simon Tofield, animator and cartoonist for Simon’s Cats videos and books, suggests making the crate comfy and leaving it out so the cat gets used to it; keeping it out of reach of curious dogs at the vet’s office; and only opening it upon arrival in the exam room. His local vet staff explains more at Tinyurl. com/CatVetProtocol.
Signs of Pet Stress 4 Aggression toward people or other animals 4 Digestive problems 4 Excessive barking/meowing 4 Forgetful of housetraining 4 Increased sleep 4 Isolation 4 Loss of appetite 4 Pacing 4 Pulling out fur
New View
Half Moon Bay, California, who creates the Through a Dog’s Ear clinically tested music series to relieve pet anxiety, inclusive of cats. “Although many holistic animal lovers want natural stress relievers, few think of auditory options,” she says.
“Stressors for dogs and cats are different. As a veterinarian, I explain situations from the animal’s perspective,” says Jennifer Quammen, with the Grants Lick Veterinary Hospital, in Butler, Kentucky. “I say, ‘From the cat’s point of view…’ As the animal advocate, I feel it’s my professional obligation.” “We bring pets into our world and expect them to adjust. Dogs, in particular, try so hard,” says Spector. They need our attention, shared activities and most of all, our understanding. Connect with Sandra Murphy at StLouisFreelanceWriter@mindspring.com.
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Is it resource saving?
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natural awakenings
May 2016
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Lisa Perry Wedding Officiant Life-Cycle Celebrant www.heartcelebration.com 616-540-0237 Weddings, Vow Renewals, Life Tributes, Retirements, Baby Welcomings, & more
Personalized Ceremonies for Life’s Milestones & Transitions
Harmony ‘n Health Colon Hydrotherapy
Mary A. DeLange C.C.T. L.M.T. 616-456-5033
Some Benefits of Colon Hydrotherapy: ~ Remove Toxic Waste from ones body ~ Eradicate Constipation ~ Removes Stomach Bloat ~ Increase ones Energy
Therapeutic Massage also available
Mary@HarmonynHealth.net
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West Michigan Edition
www.HarmonynHealth.net NaturalWestMichigan.com
ecotip Green Wedding
Eco-Style the Momentous Event It’s summer wedding planning season, and couples can save money and conserve natural resources by planning a simpler, more ecological event. Instead of hosting the reception at a pricey hotel or restaurant, consider moving the ceremony and reception to a serene location like a beach, park or nature center. Local park and recreation departments may collaborate on making arrangements at public facilities, and nominal fees help support their ongoing operations. A natural setting at an ecoconscious hotel is equally well suited to serving healthy, organic food from a local or on-site health food restaurant, caterer or specialty grocer. Here are some more tips. Purchase organic flowers to avoid pesticides and artificial fragrances often containing toxic chemicals. Buying from local growers cuts transportation costs. Choose a wedding gown made of organic and sustainable fibers. ChasingGreen.org points out that organic farming reduces atmospheric carbon dioxide by using 37 percent fewer fossil fuels than conventional methods. While releasing butterflies or doves may constitute a symbol of love, it can be fatal, especially for the birds, which possess no survival skills in the wild. Also, tossing birdseed over the happy couple, for a time viewed as an improvement on throwing rice, is just as wasteful and messy. Instead, greet the newly hitched lovers by blowing bubbles—it’s inexpensive, childhood fun that won’t harm clothes, animals or the environment. Guests can recycle the wands and bottles, which are available in small sizes for weddings. Show care for other animals by abstaining from balloons. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service notes that balloons that end up in nearby waters or landfills can be mistaken for food and cause stomach blockages for whales, dolphins, turtles and birds. Rather than pay big bucks for a band that consumes electricity, go with one or two local, unplugged musicians such as an acoustic guitar player and flutist. Guests will relish hearing moving, personal renditions of love songs instead of clichéd tunes.
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May 2016
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Lead-Acid Battery Disposal
O
ften pressed for time, people don’t always dispose of used products as they should. Instead of doing the research or making the trip to the proper drop off location, we toss objects containing harsh chemicals and toxins into the waste can, not giving a second thought to the toll we’re taking on the environment. Lead-acid batteries are often the improperly discarded object described above. Lead acid batteries are rechargeable batteries made of lead plates situated in a “bath” of sulfuric acid within a plastic casing. As noted by the Battery Council International, when people think about lead-acid batteries, they usually think about a car battery. Delivering a short burst of high power to start an engine, they’re often referred to as starting batteries. However, lead-acid batteries can also
come in the form of a deep-cycle battery, delivering a lower, steady level of power for a much longer time than a starting battery. No matter the purpose these batteries are used for, they are used often and wreak havoc on the environment when disposed improperly. It’s important to remember that once deemed unusable, a lead-acid battery is classified as a hazardous waste under the Basel Convention. As alluded to by its name, improperly discarded lead-acid batteries can distribute particles of lead into the environment that lead to acute lead poisoning. In Worst Polluted’s Top 10 Worst Pollution Problems of 2008, the organization states, “Health risks [of acute lead poisoning] include impaired physical growth, kidney damage, retardation, and in extreme cases even death. Lead poisoning can lead to tiredness, headache, aching bones and muscles, forgetfulness, loss of appetite and sleep disturbance.”
What is the solution—the proper disposal method of leadacid batteries? They are to be dropped off at or picked up by facilities who recycle them appropriately, such as the following two options: • Call2Recycle accepts small sealed lead-acid batteries (in addition to several other types of batteries as well as cell phones). To find one of the many recycling facilities in West Michigan near you, visit Call2Recycle.org or call 1-877-273-2925. • Batteries Unlimited accepts all unusable batteries, despite the size, type or condition and either reconditions or recycles them. For more information on them, visit BatteriesUnlimitedAmerica.com or call 616-534-1142.
Reach Your Target Market Contact us ad rates. 616-604-0480
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“Feng shui is the original eco-science.” ~ Will LeStrange
Eco Feng Shui Tips to Bring More Positive Energy into Your Home by Sarah Tarver-Wahlquist
W
hen we’re hungry for change, we may feel the impulse to spruce up our living spaces. Rooms that feel cluttered, drab and unappealing drag on our energy. Applying the basic inspired tenets of the ancient Chinese art and science of feng shui can transform and re-energize any space, improving the way we feel. Translated as “wind and water,” feng shui—which has been creating healthy and harmonious environments since its origins 3,000 years ago—can activate our rethinking the arrangement, uses and tone of each room while bringing beneficial green changes home.
Sample bagua maps are available online for referencing. While a complete feng shui treatment may require major revamping, we can also take some low-cost steps to immediately create more harmony while eliminating toxins that are unhealthy and disrupt the energy flow.
Feng Shui Basics
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When considering how to apply feng shui principles, it helps to have a trained practitioner make a map, or bagua, analyzing how energy, or chi, moves through a building. They will determine ways to help chi flow and settle in appropriate places to support all aspects of life. Recommended alterations typically start with furniture placement, color choices and key accessorizing.
feng shui practitioner Maureen Calamia, owner of Luminous Spaces, in St. James, New York. Feng shui categorizes the natural elements as water, metal, fire, earth and wood, reflected in items like stones, plants and water features, as well as art and wall decorations and paint colors. Filling a home with living plants is favored by many feng shui experts. “Surround yourself with green plants, including cuttings from the yard,” advises Debra Duneier, a feng shui master practitioner, certified ecodesigner and author of EcoChi: Designing the Human Experience, in New York City. “They bring energy and life force into your home, while also filtering the air you breathe.” If adding plants isn’t feasible, she recommends picking up some fresh flowers each week. Remember to change the water every day and dispose of the flowers at the first sign of wilting (dying flowers bring negative energy).
Banish Toxic Materials
Bring in Green “Bringing natural elements into a space will aid the circulation of chi, help achieve a balance and yield an indoor environment of peace and calm,” says
“Healthy indoor air quality is an essential aspect of good feng shui,” attests Alisa Rose Seidlitz, an eco feng shui consultant/designer, certified green building and interiors professional and owner of Ambiance Eco, in Berkeley, California. “Materials used inside our homes, such as cleaning products and furnishings, can
Color Me Feng Shui
ere’s a quick primer on the colors associated with each of the five natural elements and ways to bring them into a home. Seek a balance of all five in each room, appropriate to its use. Wood Water Earth Metal Fire
green, brown blue, black earth tones, soft yellows/oranges white, gray red, purple, bright yellows/oranges
living plants, wood, flowers water features, running fountains, glass brick, tile, ceramics rocks, stones sunlight
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“Feng shui is about making our built environments in sync with nature and natural cycles.” ~ Alisa Rose Seidlitz
Follow Your Joy
either contribute significantly to poor air quality or support positive feng shui.” Indoor air quality is significantly impacted by furnishings and décor. When seeking out the cleanest, greenest options, pay special attention to: Cleaning products. Safely discard toxic cleaning chemicals by taking them to hazardous waste pickup sites. Many household jobs can be done with vinegar and baking soda. Paint. Revisions in wall, trim and furniture colors quickly freshen a room and bring new energy, especially when they align with Earth’s natural elements. Avoid conventional paint, which contains dangerous volatile organic compounds (VOC) that off-gas into the air. Look for widely available zero-VOC brands. Other options include displaying art or colorful wall hangings. Flooring. Many toxins lurk in conventional carpeting and adhesives used to lay wood or tile floors. Look for natural wool rugs, reclaimed wood and zero-VOC floor adhesives. Preserve resources and alter the energy in a space by repurposing reclaimed materials for rehab projects. For good feng shui, smudging with dried sage cleanses any negative energy leftover from previous owners. Furnishings and fabrics. Mainstream furniture is typically treated with toxic flame retardant, so always
A
ask how furniture has been treated before purchasing. Seek out nontoxic and natural materials like natural rubber mattresses and hemp or organic cotton shower curtains and window coverings.
Feng shui is multifaceted, but at its center is a search for balance and harmony. When making changes at home, it’s good to know we can follow our instincts and add things
that bring us joy. Feng shui experts provide guidance in choosing colors and elements, but each of us is ultimately the best judge of what feels best for our own space. “I often ask my clients: What kind of message are you sending yourself?” says Duneier. “You can use your space to send yourself a message of a beautiful, abundant and healthy life.” Sarah Tarver-Wahlquist, a writer from Tucson, Arizona, also freelances for GreenAmerica.org.
WATCH YOUR BUSINESS GROW
Go Bagua
n online search for practical information on bagua-mapping resources produces these results. n Tinyurl.com/FengShuiBaguaMap n FengShui.About.com/od/feng shui-bagua
Advertise Your Products or Services in Natural Awakenings Magazine. Call Now! 616-604-0480
n Feng-Shui.LoveToKnow.com/ Bagua_Map 40
West Michigan Edition
NaturalWestMichigan.com
Muskegon Farmer’s Market
242 W Western Ave. Muskegon July-September MuskegonFarmersMarket.com
Ada Farmer’s Market
7239 Thornapple River Dr. Ada Tuesdays, June-October AdaFarmersMarket.com
Howard City Farmer’s Market
Corner of Shaw St. and Ensley St. May-early Fall HowardCity.org
Grand Haven AND Spring Lake Farmer’s Market
Chinook Pier, Harvest Bible Chapel Parking Lot June-October GrandHavenChamber.org/ farmers-markets
Area Farmers’ Market’s Fulton St. Farmer’s Market
Fulton St. E Grand Rapids Year Round, with reduced hours January-April
Grand Rapids Downtown Market Ionia Ave SW Grand Rapids Outdoor market is May-September
Plainfield Charter Township
4411 Plainfield Ave. June-October PlainfieldCharterTwp.org/PCTFarmers
South Haven Farm Market
Huron St. Pavillion in downtown South Haven May 16-October 17 SouthHavenFarmMarket.com
Metro Health Farmer’s Market 5900 Byron Center Ave. Wyoming May 7-October 8 MetroHealth.net/about-MetroHealth/Live-Healthy/Farm-Market
Byron Center Farmer’s Market
Downtown Sparta Farmer’s Market 71 N. Union St. Sparta, Wednesdays June 10-September 30 SpartaChamber.com/ Downtown-Farmers-Market
8350 Byron Center Ave. Byron Center Saturdays, May-October BCFMarket.org
GVSU Farmer’s Market
Allendale, Parking Lot G, June-October GVSU.Edu/FarmersMarket
Holland Farmers Market
150 W. 8th St. Holland Mid-May to November HollandFarmersMarket.com
Kalamazoo Farmer’s Market
1204 Bank St. Kalamazoo May-November (more hours June-October) FarmersMarketKalamazoo.com
Ludington Farmer’s Market
North James St. Plaza Area May-September Ludington.MI.US/195/Farmers-Market
natural awakenings
May 2016
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calendarofevents
$ave Time & Energy! Please call in advance to ensure that the event you’re interested in is still available.
ALL MONTH LONG
Complementary Consultation – A consultation is a conversation, not an examination and certainly not a high-pressure sales pitch. After all, we aren’t the right office for everyone, so doesn’t it make sense to discover that before you begin a relationship with our practice? Brain and Body Chiropractic, 833 E 16th St, Ste 175, Holland. RSVP: 616-202-6368. Consultation and Mud Pack Special – For new clients only, schedule a consultation with Dr LeAnn Fritz, ND, from New Hope Health in May and get your first mud packing session free. Call and mention this ad when scheduling. New Hope Health, 10373 Riverview Dr, Plainwell. Info: 269-204-6525. Thyroid Help and Balancing Hormones – 9:30am-7:30pm, Mon-Fri; 10am-5pm, Sat. Looking to nourish your thyroid and balance your hormones naturally? Women and men are welcome to come in and discuss herbs to support optimal wellness. Vital Nutrition, 169 Marcell Dr NE, Rockford. 616-433-9333.
SUNDAY, MAY 1
Mother’s Day Special – May 1-8. Stop by Grand Rapids Natural Health May 1-8 and receive 20 percent off all organic skin care services when you buy a gift card for your mom. Grand Rapids Natural Health, 638 Fulton W, Grand Rapids. Info: 616-264-6556. Inspire – 1pm. Featuring discussion and brainstorming of participant-suggested issues, plans of action, music, refreshments and socializing. This month’s topic is Food Security. Fair trade items for sale. Free; electronic donations (computer components and cell phones) accepted for E-Quip Technology for the people. Ferrysburg City Hall, 17290 Roosevelt Rd, Spring Lake. Info: 616-842-5803.
MONDAY, MAY 2
Meatless Monday Potluck – 6pm. Join our Meatless Monday Vegan Potluck. Explore vegan dishes and be inspired by the speaker/presenter. Bring a vegan dish to share. The Central SDA Church, 100 Sheldon Blvd SE, Grand Rapids. 616-881-6988. Info: GRVegFest@gmail.com.
TUESDAY, MAY 3
Series Kickoff Workout – 5:45-7pm. Join the new Kalamazoo area EcoTrek Fitness series with Jason Wood. Kickoff event includes 75 minutes of strength, cardio and flexibility, using nature as our gym. $10/drop-in or $40/5 classes. Asylum Lake Preserve, 3836 S Drake Rd, Kalamazoo. Info/RSVP: SignUp@EcoTrekFitness.com or EcoTrekFitness.com. Meditation and Mindfulness Class – 7pm. Look to meditation for healing and pain management
42
West Michigan Edition
Visit NaturalWestMichigan.com for guidelines and to submit entries. All Calendar events must be submitted online by the 15th of the month prior to publication. Denotes an event sponsored by Natural Awakenings Magazine West Michigan.
and get information to help you create your own meditation practice that works with your lifestyle. All experience levels welcomed. $10. Lakeshore Family Chiropractic, 258 James St, Ste 10, Holland. Info: 616-886-2716.
WEDNESDAY, MAY 4
Functional Forum – 6pm. Hear about Dr David Perlmutter’s Grouping and Splitting and how the chronic disease epidemic can best be solved by grouping symptoms, rather than “splitting diagnoses”. Free. Keystone Pharmacy, 4021 Cascade Rd SE, Grand Rapids. Info: FunctionalForum.com. Guided Meditation and Healing Circle – 7-8pm. Escape from stress and discover an inner world of calm, peace and joy through guided meditation and energy healing from Healing in America-Trained Healers. $5. Holistic Care Approach, 3368 Beltline Ct NE, Grand Rapids. Info: HealingInAmerica-Midwest.com.
THURSDAY, MAY 5
Laughter Yoga – 6-7pm. Join Angela Esseks Dykes for this unique class. We will check blood pressure before and after to see how laughter can reduce the risk of heart disease. $30/5 weeks. Holistic Care Approach, 3368 Beltline Ct NE, Grand Rapids. RSVP: 616-361-9221.
SATURDAY, MAY 7
Ottawa County Grand River Cleanup – 8:30am1pm. Hosted by West Michigan Environmental Action Council. A small breakfast beforehand and a light lunch afterward will be provided. Harbor Island, 11 Harbor Island Dr, Grand Haven. 616451-3051. Info: wmeac.org/GrandRiverCleanup. Party for the Planet – 10am-3pm. Celebrate recycling and our natural world. Join more than 20 conservation-minded, green-practicing organizations for a fun day of learning how we can help save our Earth’s resources. John Ball Zoo, 1300 W Fulton St, Grand Rapids. 616-336-4374. Info: KBylund@ JohnBallZooSociety.org. Introduction to Crystal Healing – 1-5pm. Learn how to choose, clean and charge crystals, techniques for using crystals in healing, meditation and how to manifest goals. A crystal to take home and class materials are included. $50. Essential Connections, Saugatuck. Info: 616-644-2967 or Joy@JoyMcShaneOyler.com.
SUNDAY, MAY 8
Eckankar – 10-11am. “Developing an Attitude of Trust,” ECK Worship Service, second Sunday each month. Free. Dominican Center at Marywood, 2025 E Fulton, Rm 4, Grand Rapids. Info: ECK-MI.org.
NaturalWestMichigan.com
TUESDAY, MAY 10
Authentic Living Creative Intention Workshop – 12:30-3pm. Kick-start your adventure of what you intend to manifest for your life. Materials, snacks, ideas and positive friendly support included. Space limited to six. $30/early bird, $40/door. In The Heart Counseling, 1345 Monroe Ave NW, Grand Rapids. RSVP: 616-426-9226 or InTheHeartCounseling@gmail.com. Essential Oils Class – 6-8pm. Learn and understand emotional clearing oils – the power of essential oils and how they can facilitate an emotional release. $25. The Remedy House, 5150 Northland Dr NE, Grand Rapids. Register: 616-443-4225.
THURSDAY, MAY 12
Laughter Yoga – 6-7pm. Join Angela Esseks Dykes for this unique class. We will check blood pressure before and after to see how laughter can reduce the risk of heart disease. $30/five weeks. Holistic Care Approach, 3368 Beltline Ct NE, Grand Rapids. RSVP: 616-361-9221.
SATURDAY, MAY 14
Mother’s Day Self-Care – 9am-noon. Moms, give yourself a morning this spring to stop the busyness, start down a path of self-compassion and come up with a plan for developing a practice of self-care. $40/early bird, $50/door. In The Heart Counseling, 1345 Monroe Ave NW, Grand Rapids. RSVP: 616426-9226 or InTheHeartCounseling@gmail.com. Vibrational Healing – 1-3pm. Be immersed in the sound of gongs, singing bowls and drums for an effortless meditation experience with Jason Kniola. $25. The Yoga Studio, 959 Lake Dr SE, Ste 206, Grand Rapids. Register/info: GRYoga.com.
SUNDAY, MAY 15
Writing Circle – 10am-noon. Pause and set creative intentions. Join us for a reflective writing circle, including readings, writing prompts and creative practices to connect with your voice and stories. All experience levels are welcomed. $10. Voice & Vessel, 2922 Fuller Ave NE, Ste 112, Grand Rapids. Register/info: VoiceAndVessel.com.
MONDAY, MAY 16
Herbs and More Class – 6-8pm. Learn about herbs and their medicinal properties, how to set up your herb toolbox and more. $15/person, $20/couple. The Remedy House, 5150 Northland Dr NE, Grand Rapids. Register: 616-443-4225. Writing Workshop – 6-8pm. Get tools and support to discover the stories you carry. All experience levels welcomed in this four-week series. An energizing and supportive approach to writing. Maximum of eight people. $125. Voice & Vessel, 2922 Fuller Ave NE, Ste 112, Grand Rapids. Register/info: VoiceAndVessel.com.
TUESDAY, MAY 17
Kombucha Class – 6:30pm. Kombucha is high in B vitamins and probiotics and it just tastes good. Free; $5 for a Scoby Starter Kit. Space is limited. Nature’s Market, 1013 S Washington Ave, Holland. Register/info: 616-394-5250.
WEDNESDAY, MAY 18
Healing Energy Circle – 7-8pm. We invite all interested in participating in a healing service to promote wellness for ourselves, others and the world. All healing modalities are welcome. There will be a brief introduction, Q&A and then a time of healing. Free. Spirit Space, 3494 Blue Star Hwy, Saugatuck. Info: 616-836-1555 or Spirit-Space.org.
THURSDAY, MAY 19
Essential Oils Workshop – 7:15pm. With Reaiah True. $10. Bodhi Tree Yoga & Wellness Studio, 208 W 18th St, Holland. Info: Loraine Griffin: 616-340-1957 or Loraine@MiBodhiTree.com. MiBodhiTree.com. Meditative Dance Party – 7:45-9pm. Meditative dance is a freeform movement practice that relieves stress and renews the spirit bringing you back into harmony and peace. No experience necessary. $5. Wealthy Theater Annex, 1110 Wealthy St, Grand Rapids. Info: SacredSisterhood@yahoo.com.
FRIDAY, MAY 20
Weekend of Wisdom for Weight Loss – May 2022. Reconnect to the authentic person inside and come away with tools and strategies to help you release blocks and barriers preventing permanent weight loss. $375. Guided Transformations, Payne Lake, Wayland. 616-401-7199. Info: GuidedTransformations.net. Energy Therapy Workshop – May 20-22. 5-8pm, Fri; 9am-5:30pm, Sat & Sun. Learn the foundation for energy therapy work, including the human energy system, the use of the creative mind, the nature of healing and practical application. $395. Holistic Care Approach, 3368 Beltline Ct NE, Grand Rapids. 269908-1016. Info: HealingInAmerica-Midwest.com.
SATURDAY, MAY 21
Qigong for Healer – 9am-5pm. Designed for healers who are interested in learning a new healing technique – qigong. $120. Alternative Care Solution, 3790 28th St SW, Ste B, Grandville. Info: 616-419-6924 or AltCareSolution@gmail.com. Ayurvedic Medicine Workshop and Kirtan – 10am-7pm. Spend a day with Sonam Targee, who will be offering two workshops in ayurvedic medicine followed by a Kirtan. From the Heart Yoga & Tai Chi, 714 Wealthy St, Grand Rapids. Info: 616-336-9642 or FromTheHeartYoga.com. Pop Up Yoga – 11am-noon. Join Bodhi Tree Yoga for yoga followed by a refreshing pint of your favorite Macatawa Ale brew. Door opens at 10:30am. Cash only; $10/ages 21+. Macatawa Ale Company, 102 S River, Holland. Info: MIBodhiTree.com.
Sing Song Yoga for Kids – Noon-12:30pm, ages 2-6; 12:45-1:30pm, ages 6-11. Introduce your children to the joys of yoga in an age-appropriate class full of music, movement and merriment. $6/ ages 2-6; $8/ages 6-11. The Yoga Studio, 959 Lake Dr SE, Ste 2016, Grand Rapids. Info/register: GRYoga.com.
SUNDAY, MAY 22
“The Work” – Noon-2pm. Identify and question thoughts that cause all fear and suffering in the world. Experience the happiness of undoing those thoughts through “The Work”, and allow your mind to return to its true, awakened, peaceful and creative nature. Unity Center for Spiritual Growth, 6025 Ada Dr SE, Ada. RSVP: Office@UnityCSG.org.
MONDAY, MAY 23
Reiki Share – 6-8pm. Check out what reiki is all about and receive a mini-session. Open to those who know reiki and those who don’t. Donations welcomed. The Remedy House, 5150 Northland Dr NE, Grand Rapids. Register: 616-443-4225.
THURSDAY, MAY 26
Reiki I and II – 9am-5pm. Become attuned to the universal energy, learn how to give treatment to self and other and meet your reiki guide. $250 including a $50 deposit at registration. The Remedy House, 5150 Northland Dr NE, Grand Rapids. Register: 616-443-4225. Grocery Store Tour – 6:30-7:30pm. Join Audrey Byker as she takes you and a group through the store while discussing her favorite foods and ingredients and why we need them. Learn the most practical tips, tricks and strategies for your healthy living journey. Harvest Health Foods, 4150 32nd Ave, Hudsonville. Info: HarvestHealthFoods.com.
MONDAY, MAY 30
Ancient Healing Circle – 6-7:30pm. Meditation/ healing sessions for balancing and replenishing. Open to Ama-Deus participants and those interested in experiencing Ama-Deus healing method. Love offering. Unity Center for Spiritual Growth, 6025 Ada Dr SE, Ada. 616-682-7812. Info: Unitycsg.org.
savethedate
June 10-12
Buttermilk Jamboree – Cultivate creativity, art and community cooperation. This three-day festival features dozens of Michigan bands and artists, as well as a few national touring groups. Weekend and day tickets available. Circle Pines Center, 8650 Mullen Rd, Delton. Info/tickets: ButtermilkJamboree.org.
savethedate June 13
The Secrets of Releasing Stress – 6:30-8:30pm. Discover how you can live an incredible and full life without being overtaken by stress and anxiety. $47. Plainwell Community Center, 798 E Bridge St, Plainwell. Register: HolisticSecretsRevealed.com.
savethedate June 18
Stress Management with Self-Acupressure – 2-5pm. Discuss different types of stress; physical, emotional, internal and external and learn different stress management techniques. Space is limited. Alternative Care Solution, 3790 28th St SW, Ste B, Grandville. Info: 616-419-6924 or AltCareSolution@gmail.com.
savethedate June 20-24
Summer STEM Camps – Varying hours. Robotics, Game Design and Math Edge summer camps forming now at Sylvan Learning Center. Perfect for elementary and early middle school- age kids. Sylvan Learning Center, 5890 Harvey St, Ste A, Muskegon. Info, times and additional dates: 231-799-0613.
savethedate
Save The Date Events
July 9
Must be submitted online each month at NaturalWestMichigan.com. Events priced $80 or more require a corresponding display ad. There is a $40 charge per listing, up to 50 words. Current advertisers, distribution sites or nonprofits, use this listing in place of your two free listings.
Outdoor Yoga – 8-9am. Saturdays, July 9-Aug 13. Sponsored by Holland Parks & Rec. $5 donation does to the Sal Perez Scholarship Fund. Kollen Park, Holland. Info: MIBodhiTree.com.
savethedate
savethedate June 3-5
savethedate
July 11
Midwest Women’s Herbal Conference – June 3-5. Hear from guest speakers, herbalists and authors and enjoy swimming, evening entertainment, workshops, film screenings and more. Camp Helen Brachman, Almond, WI. MidwestWomensHerbal.com.
Brave Boundaries Retreat – 9am-4pm. A sacred sanctuary, Oasis Retreats and Workshops are for those seeking awareness for their life vision. Tune into inner guidance, let go of beliefs that no longer serve you and gain awareness of God’s vision for your prosperous future. $111 includes lunch and activities. Grand Rapids. Register/ sponsor: LUXCHIX.com/events.
natural awakenings
May 2016
43
ongoingevents
savethedate October 11
Intuition Retreat – 9am-4pm. A sacred sanctuary, Oasis Retreats and Workshops are for those seeking awareness for their life vision. Tune into inner guidance, let go of beliefs that no longer serve you and gain awareness of God’s vision for your prosperous future. $111 includes lunch and activities. Grand Rapids. Register or sponsor: LUXCHIX.com/events.
We know what we are, but know not what we may be. ~William Shakespeare
Note: Visit NaturalWestMichigan.com for guidelines and to submit entries. Events must be resubmitted each month by the 15th of the month. Events subject to change, please call ahead. 231-740-6662. Info: WhiteRiverYoga.com.
sunday Spirit Space Sunday Worship – 10:30am. An interfaith, non-denominational gathering place for worship and spiritual enrichment. Join for inspiring messages called Reasonings. Spirit Space, 3493 Blue Star Hwy, Saugatuck. Info: 616-836-1555 or Spirit-Space.org. Inspire – 1pm. 1st Sun. Featuring discussion and brainstorming of participant-suggested issues, plans of action, music, refreshments and socializing. Fair trade items for sale. Free. Ferrysburg City Hall, 17290 Roosevelt Rd, Spring Lake. Sunday Series – 6pm. Explore spirituality, universal truths, self-mastery and balanced, positive, loving and joyful living with The Coptic Center and their ongoing offering of enlightening ministers, teachers and guest presenters. Love offering. 0-381 Lake Michigan Dr, Grand Rapids. Info: TheCopticCenter.org. Community Yoga Class – 6-7pm. $5 donation goes towards the charity of the month. Bodhi Tree Yoga and Wellness Studio, 208 W 18th St, Holland. Info: MiBodhiTree.com.
monday The Practice of A Course in Miracles – 7-8:30pm. Learn “miracle-mindedness”. Got joy? This is how to have it. (Hint: you already do.) All are welcome. Free. Fountain Street Church, 24 Fountain St.NE, Grand Rapids. 616-458-5095.
tuesday Gentle Hatha Yoga – 7:45-9am & 9:15-10:30am. With Mitch Coleman. Drop-ins welcome. White River Yoga Studio, 8724 Ferry St, Montague.
2016
Retreats
West Michigan Edition
$20 off BioMeridian Assessments – Food allergies, environmental allergies, organ function and real food menus and shopping lists for families that are healthy and kid-approved. Grand Rapids. 616-365-9176. IntegrativeNutritionalTherapies.com. Healthy Lifestyle/Weight-Loss Clinic – 5:30-7pm. Enroll now for this next 13-week Healthy Lifestyle/ Weight-loss program and receive education and coaching weekly to help achieve your goals. Space is limited. The Remedy House, 5150 Northland Dr NE, Grand Rapids. Register: 616-443-4225. Meditation – 6-7pm. Join together for meditation that begins and ends with live, native flute music. Attend the full hour or any portion of the meeting. Spirit Space, 3493 Blue Star Hwy, Saugatuck. Info: 616-836-1555 or Spirit-Space.org. Essential Oils Class – 6:30-8pm. Meet and discuss a variety of subjects from the use of essential oils for spiritual growth and healing to “Oils of the Bible”. Love offering. Unity Center of Spiritual Growth, 6025 Ada Dr SE, Ada. Info: Allegra_Miller@yahoo.com.
saturday Gentle Hatha Yoga – 9-10:15am & 10:30-11:45am. With Mitch Coleman. Drop-ins welcome. White River Yoga Studio, 8724 Ferry St, Montague. 231-7406662. Info: WhiteRiverYoga.com. Sweetwater Local Foods Market – 9am-1pm. A double-up bucks and bridge card market. Located inside during inclement weather. Hackley Health, the Lakes Bldg, 6401Harvey St, Muskegon. 231-861-2234.
OUR
Vision
SPARK | February 11 | 9am - 4pm Tune into inner guidance, let go of beliefs that no longer serve you and gain awareness of God’s vision for your prosperous future.
OASIS Retreats & Workshops was developed by MINDY HILLS & NICOLE ZAAGMAN to offer sanctuary for those seeking insight for their life vision.
Essence + Valor | April 11 | 9am - 4pm Balance feminine and masculine roles in leadership and provide a road-map to developing purpose driven initiatives.
Whether you’re a busy parent, working professional or passionate entrepreneur, the retreats will provide sage wisdom, expert advice and spiritual truths to help you achieve peace, passion and prosperity in your life.
Brave Boundaries | July 11 | 9am - 4pm Implement and define mindful, respectful, lifestyle boundaries to best serve your circles and inner voice.
MINDY & NICOLE look forward to holding a sacred space for your personal and professional development.
INTUITION | October 11 | 9am - 4pm Understand the importance of trusting your God guidance, tap into soul tools and walk with open hands towards divine destiny.
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Detox YOUR SPIRIT IN 2016 Register LUXCHIX.com/events
thenaturaldirectory
ENERGY HEALING MATRIX ENERGETICS
...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 NaturalWestMichigan.com/advertising.
ACUPUNCTURE GRAND WELLNESS
Vikki Nestico, R.Ac. Located at Renewal Skin Spa 6080 28th St. SE, Grand Rapids 616-940-1177 • GrandWellness.net At Grand Wellness, we focus on a holistic approach to wellness, promoting healing through acupuncture, herbal therapy and lifestyle modifications. Call to set up a free consultation to discuss how Chinese medicine can help your specific health concerns. See ad, page 38.
BUILDING/CONSTRUCTION WOOD & SAW
Andrew Gielczyk Licensed Builder 616-834-2480 • WoodAndSaw.com Wood & Saw is focused on creating a sustainable high quality of life for our clients. Building simple, costeffective, energy-efficient, toxic-free homes and remodels that achieve the healthiest possible indoor air quality. See ad, page 6.
CHIROPRACTIC CARE BRAIN & BODY CHIROPRACTIC Drs. Lily & Kody Semrow Holland • 616-202-6368 Brain-BodyHealth.com
Our doctors provide a comprehensive solution to resolving problems of the spine and nervous system. Dr. Semrow is one of 400 doctors in the country certified in the functional neurology protocol for neurostructural correction. See ad, page 36.
DYNAMIC FAMILY CHIROPRACTIC Dr. Ronda VanderWall 4072 Chicago Drive, Grandville 616-531-6050 • DynamicChiro.com
Family owned and operated in the heart of downtown Grandville, Dynamic Family Chiropractic focuses on lifestyle improvements through living a maximized life. A safe and natural approach to health through the combination of exercise, nutrition, detoxification and chiropractic care.
COLON HYDROTHERAPY HARMONY ’N HEALTH
Mary De Lange, CCT, LMT 1003 Maryland Ave, N.E., Grand Rapids 616-456-5033 • HarmonyNHealth.net Certified therapist since 1991 offering colon therapy in a sterile and professional environment. Using a holistic approach, colonics relieve constipation, diarrhea, gas, bloating, poor digestion, back pain, body odor and more. See ad, page 36.
TRICIA E. GOSLING
Holistic Energy Therapies 616-481-9074 HolisticEnergyTherapies.net Offering an advanced clientcentered dimension of colonics since 1996: gentle, safe and effective. Eliminate toxins and enhance well-being. Also offering Quantum Biofeedback sessions. I-ACT certified Instructor.
Barbara Zvirzdinis, WK, CMT 616-581-3885 ASenseOfFlow.com Matrix Energetics is a system used to heal, transform and create new possibilities in your life. Using the principles of quantum physics and subtle energy during a Matrix Energetics session we are able to enter into different realties and download new possibilities for your mental, emotional, physical and spiritual selves.
ESSENTIAL OILS BE YOUNG ESSENTIAL OILS
Clara VanderZouwen Independent Sharing Partner 616-481-8587 ClaraVZ@sbcglobal.net BeYoungTH.com/Partners/Claravz Be Young Essential Oils are E.O.B.B.D. guaranteed 100 percent pure for the safety and benefit of your family, pets - even horses. Offering free monthly classes, Zyto Compass Bio-scans, ionic detox footbaths and aromatherapy jewelry! ClaraVZ@sbcglobal.net.
MOONDROP HERBALS, LLC
Cottage of Natural Elements 351 Cummings, NW Grand Rapids 616-735-1285 • MoondropHerbals.com
COSMETICS SERENDIPITE ORGANIQUES
Teri Kelley • 616-719-0610 Teri@SerendipiteOrganiques.com mkt.com/serendipite-organiques Your online source for organic, non-GMO makeup and body care. Offering several lines, you’ll find everything you need to cleanse and beautify your body head-to-toe. Serendipite also carries a 100% organic dog care line.
CRANIOSACRAL THERAPY ST. BRIGID’S CRANIOSACRAL CENTER OF GRAND RAPIDS
Kelly O’Brien Pahman • 616-617-3130 Kelly@StBrigidshlc.com StBrigidshlc.com/Craniosacral-Therapy A gentle, effective, healing touch for anxiety, chronic pain, fertility and pregnancy concerns, head trauma, and more. Kelly offers services to all ages as a certified holistic doula and a craniosacral therapist (Upledger).
Your local source for all things natural and botanical. Essential oils, bulk herbs, tea, hand-crafted bath & body products, raw ingredients, containers, local artwork, unique gifts. Practitioner discounts. Space rental and artisan consignment. See ad, page 20.
YOUNG LIVING ESSENTIAL OILS Marilyn York Independent Distributor 1-877-436-2299, ext. 2 YoungLiving.org/NaturalHealth4u
Become an Independent Distributor. Discover the high potency of therapeutically authentic essential oils from Young Living. Enhance your own health, as well as others who seek holistic wellness options. Free training. See ad, page 10.
natural awakenings
May 2016
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HOLISTIC HEALTH
HAKOMI THERAPY
A SENSE OF FLOW
KEN PORTER CST, CHT
Barbara Zvirzdinis, WK, CMT 616-581-3885 ASenseOfFlow.com
3355 Eagle Park Dr. NE Ste. 107, Grand Rapids 616-262-3848 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.
HEALING SERVICES THE REMEDY HOUSE
Jodi Jenks Natural Health Practitioner, Reiki Master 616-443-4225 TheRemedyHouse.org Certified in bodywork, lymphatic drainage, raindrop therapy, CranioSacral, reflexology, iridology, natural health consultations including a zyto bio-communication scan. Emotional clearing with essential oils and energy work, reiki, Energy Touch. See ad, page 36.
HEALTH EDUCATION CENTER THE WELLNESS FORUM
Certified Matrix Energetics Practitioner, Certified Wholistic Kinesiologist, 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.
DEBRA STALSONBURG TIMMERMAN, RN HTP
Guided Transformations 9964 Cherry Valley SE, Ste. 2, Caledonia 616-401-7199 • GuidedTransformations.net Registered nurse specializing in lifestyle change, weight management and pain reduction. Restoring balance and harmony using Healing Touch, reflexology, aromatherapy, guided imagery & visualization practices.
HEALING WAYS
Pastor & Casey Brian Kalamazoo • Portage 269-221-1961 WaysToHealing.com M a s s a g e t h e r a p y, e n e r g y healing, spiritual counsel, healing services for groups and more. We fully support you in experiencing healing in all aspects of your life: physical, mental, emotional and spiritual.
616-430-2291 WellnessForum.com
Educational programs for personal health improvement. Workplace wellness programs. Wellness Forum Foundation focused on school nutrition and children’s health. National conferences.
HEALTH / WELLNESS CENTER THE HEALING CENTER
Bob Huttinga PA-C & Rev. Barbara Huttinga 332 S. Lincoln Ave., Lakeview 989-352-6500 TheHealingCenterOfLakeview.com
HOMEOPATHY BOB HUTTINGA PA-C
332 S. Lincoln Ave., Lakeview 989-352-6500 TheHealingCenterOfLakeview.com
Naturopathic/Holistic Practitioners and retail health store. Natural health consultations, classes, oils, h e r b s , h o m e o p a t h y, hypnosis, foods, candles, crystals, books, CD’s, massage, reflexology, emotional clearing, raindrop therapy, foot detox, DOT/CDL health cards for truck drivers. See ad, page 29.
A Certified PA since 1976, Bob Huttinga practices both traditional and homeopathic care. He finds the cause and the homeopathic remedy. Most insurance accepted, except Priority Health, Blue Care Network or Medicaid. See ad, page 29.
Worry never robs tomorrow of its sorrow, it only saps today of its joy. ~Leo Buscaglia 46
West Michigan Edition
NaturalWestMichigan.com
HYPNOTHERAPY HYPNOTHERAPY ASSOCIATES OF GRAND RAPIDS LLC
Linda D Knight, CHt, Stacey PreFontaine, CClHt Certified Medical Support Hypnotherapist 1345 Monroe NW, Ste. 201, Grand Rapids 616-550-3231 HypnotistLinda.wordpress.com Hypnotherapy services for smoking cessation, weight management, pain management, personal and professional growth, and much more. Also offering stress management services for individuals, couples, families, and the workplace with certified Stress Reduction Specialists. See ad, page 36.
MASSAGE THERAPY DYNAMIC FAMILY CHIROPRACTIC & MASSAGE THERAPY Jaci Timmermans, MT 4072 Chicago Drive, Grandville 616-531-6050 DynamicChiro.com
Offering Swedish massage with integrated techniques, chosen specifically for your unique body. Relieve those tired and sore muscles and rejuvenate. Call for on-going monthly specials and discounts.
HARMONY ‘N HEALTH
Mary De Lange, CCT., LMT. 1003 Maryland Ave. NE, Grand Rapids 616-456-5033 HarmonyNHealth.net Over 24 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 36.
MEDITATION/REIKI MOMENT OF PEACE
Claire Crowley BS, MM, 500 hr ERYT 1324 Lake Dr, Ste 7, Grand Rapids 616-295-1861 Moment-Of-Peace.com An opportunity to experience emotional and physical wellbeing through meditation and reiki, Moment of Peace aspires to help you savor each moment, embrace all that your life offers and celebrate the joy of everyday. See ad, page 27.
MIDWIFERY FULL CIRCLE MIDWIFERY SERVICE, INC.
Patrice Bobier CPM Hesperia: 231-861-2234 Jennifer Holshoe Grand Rapids area: 616-318-1825 FullCircleMidwifery.com In private practice since 1982 - specializing in home birth and a team approach. Over 1,550 births attended. Offering midwifery care that maintains a family-centered safe birth experience. Empowering women to stay healthy during pregnancy, give birth naturally and parent in the best ways. Free initial consultations including prenatal check-up.
PERSONAL GROWTH IN THE HEART COUNSELING, PLLC Laurie Schmit, LMSW Grand Rapids, 49505 616-426-9226 Facebook.com/InTheHeartCounseling
Transformative counseling, workshops, energywork, breathwork, rebirthing and emotional clearing, all with confidential, caring support. Collaborative, active and affirming approach for adults wanting to break free and move into true authentic living. Close to downtown Grand Rapids.
SALON SERVICES CJ’S STUDIO SALON
5286 Plainfield Ave, NE, Grand Rapids 616-364-9191 CjsStudioSalon.com An award-winning hair stylist with 30 years advanced education, that uses and sells organic hair care products as well as uses a professional line of organic hair color. Ionic Detox Foot Baths also available.
INSTITUTE OF SANATIVE ARTS
0-11279 Tallmadge Woods Dr., Grand Rapids 616-791-0472 Info@SanativeTranquility.com 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 989-773-1714 Contact@NaturopathicInstitute.info NaturopathicInstitute.info
Educational programs offered: Natural Health Program: four years (one weekend a month); Massage Therapy Program: one year (two weekends a month); Holistic Doula Practitioner Program: six months (one weekend a month). Individual classes available. See ad, page 48.
SKIN CARE LAKESHORE NATURAL SKIN CARE 10500 Chicago Drive Holland Twp • Zeeland 231-557-3619 LakeshoreNaturalSkinCare.com
Specializing in advanced, customized skin care with Elina Organics. Facials, body treatments, needle-free Mesotherapy, TriPolarRF, DermaLaser, Facial Hydratherapy, Oxygen Facial Therapy, LED, microdermabrasion, bamboo massage, Raindrop, reiki and more.
The Guest House This being human is a guest house. Every morning a new arrival. A joy, a depression, a meanness, some momentary awareness comes As an unexpected visitor. Welcome and entertain them all! Even if they’re a crowd of sorrows, who violently sweep your house empty of its furniture, still treat each guest honorably. He may be clearing you out for some new delight. The dark thought, the shame, the malice, meet them at the door laughing, and invite them in. Be grateful for whoever comes, because each has been sent as a guide from beyond.
Rumi
SCHOOL / EDUCATION BVI SCHOOL OF AYURVEDA Ruth Small, Ph.D., Director 269-381-4946 Ayurveda@SambodhSociety.us AyurvedaMichigan.org
School of Ayurveda. State licensed. Certificate program for healthcare professionals, doctors, nurses, yoga teachers, wellness educators, massage therapists, holistic health specialists, chiropractors, dieticians and those seeking to learn selfhealth-care. Instructors highly qualified (B.A.M.S.).
Spiritual Energy Healing
Ama-Deus is a healing method from a whole or soul perspective that is used to access a stream of consciousness that is Love, the force that draws us back to Source.
International Association of Ama-Deus, LLC P.O. Box 93 • Lowell, MI 49331 • elizabethcosmos@sbcglobal.net
natural awakenings
May 2016
47
The Path You Have Always Wanted Naturopathy
(each year 600 hours)
Inspire a world of health! Your diploma in Massage Therapy, Natural Health or Holistic Doula is here.
Natural Health Educator............. 1st Year Natural Health Therapist............ 2nd Year Natural Health Practitioner......... 3rd Year CertiďŹ ed Naturopath................... 4th Year 4th Year Graduates are Eligible for Doctor of Naturopathy National Test & Title
Massage Therapy
Therapeutic Bodywork Practitioner...1 Year
Holistic Doula Practitioner Doula....... 6 Months
All Classes Meet on Weekends
Fri: 5-9pm and Sat & Sun: 9am-6pm
Naturopaths: 1 per month - Massage: 2 per month
Individual Classes:
Herbology - Aromatherapy - Nutrition Live Food Preparaton - Light Healing Touch Reexology - Homeopathy & Much More!
(989) 773-1714 ~ Mount Pleasant, MI Contact@NaturopathicInstitute.info www.NaturopathicInstitute.info
Over 20 Years of Experience ~ Over 100 Programs Graduated 48
West Michigan Edition
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