Natural Awakenings Magazine ~ September 2016

H E A L T H Y

L I V I N G

H E A L T H Y

feel good • live simply • laugh more

Michael DeMaria

P L A N E T

FREE

PEACE WITHIN

A Sound Healer Shares His Journey to Spiritual Wholeness

The Sweet Sound of HEALING Music Uplifts Body Mind and Spirit

Restorative

YOGA Prop-Aided

Asanas Create Deep Relaxation

Eco Friendly

KITCHEN Simple Ways to Conserve Water

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contents 8 5 newsbriefs balanced life. In each issue readers find cutting-edge information on natural health, nutrition, fitness, personal 8 healthbriefs growth, green living, creative expression and the products 11 globalbriefs and services that support a healthy lifestyle.

18 healingways 21 inspiration 16 13 PEACE WITHIN 22 fitbody A Sound Healer 11 24 consciouseating Shares His Journey 26 community

spotlight 16 MUSIC AS MEDICINE

Music Soothes, Energizes 28 wisewords and Heals Us 30 healthykids 32 greenliving 18 THE MODERN SHAMAN 33 actionalert Ancient Practices 18 14 34 naturalpet Heal Body and Soul 42 calendar 45 naturaldirectory 22 RELAX AND UNWIND Restorative Yoga Poses 47 classifieds Foster Healing Natural Awakenings is your guide to a healthier, more

by Allison Gorman

by Kathleen Barnes

by Linda Sechrist

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.

NEWS BRIEFS & ARTICLE SUBMISSIONS Email articles to: Publisher@NaturalWestMichigan.com. Deadline for articles is the 5th of the month prior to publication. Submit News Briefs online at NaturalWestMichigan.com. Deadline for News Briefs is the 12th of the month prior to publication.

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BEYOND OUR FULL “CARBON NEUTRAL” DIGITAL ISSUE EACH MONTH...

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by Meredith Montgomery

24 VEGAN LUNCHBOX Plant-Based Choices Provide Midday Boost

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by Judith Fertig

28 INSIDE THE CHANT

WITH KRISHNA DAS Kirtan Music Transports Listeners to a Deeper Place

by Robin Fillmore

30 RAISING A MUSIC LOVER Kids Thrive to Rhythms of Head and Heart

by Randy Kambic

32 WATER-WISE KITCHEN A Few Small Steps Can Make the Difference

by Avery Mack

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34 HAPPY FURRY HOME

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contact us Publisher Pamela Gallina 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 Fax: 616-855-4202 Publisher@NaturalWestMichigan.com

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COMMITTED TO SUSTAINABILITY

his month’s issue focuses on the healing aspects of music and movement, which have the ability to lighten our spirits, infuse us with positive vibrations and calm our minds.

It has me contemplating the role that music has always played in my own life. Music is on continuously wherever I am, in my home, driving my car or riding my motorcycle. It helps set the tone for my day. Depending on how I feel when I awake, my choice of the day may be anything from rock and roll or jazz to classical or opera. Anytime I feel the need to change moods, I change the musical genre and voilà, my state of mind subtly shifts for the better.

Everyone has experienced remembering moments in time and people in our lives when we hear music that was important to us at the time, often when we were together sharing some tune. I am grateful for how music has been a constant, magical companion that can raise the hair on the back of neck, transport me to another place and time or soothe me into a meditative state.

This month again brought our publishing team exciting opportunities to learn, grow and be inspired by those we meet. Thank you all for traveling the path of a naturally healthy lifestyle with us. A surprising number of you are taking your personal and professional practices into new and intriguing directions. We are especially grateful for all those devoting their lives to helping others expand their realm of possibilities.

We appreciate you all.

To conscious living,

Pamela Gallina, Publisher

Natural Awakenings is locally owned and operated.

Natural Awakenings Magazine of West Michigan

Never Glossy. Always Green.

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

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

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run? Walkers are encouraged. Not in town on September 17 but want to help? Registrants sign up using their zip code and their registration fees are used to feed people within local community.

For more race information and registration go to: http:// tinyurl.com/ECOTREK10. See ad, page 36.

What’s New is Old

H A Voyage to Well-Being

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hat if you could learn all you need to know about getting healthy and staying healthy during a one week Caribbean vacation. Well, it’s possible! In fact, National Geographic Traveler has chosen Holistic Holiday at Sea as “one of the 100 best worldwide vacations to enrich your life.”

This unique event is the brain child of Miami health educator Sandy Pukel. Pukel had been doing health educational programs in Miami for four decades when he decided to take his event to sea. His first cruise attracted 400 people; over a decade later, his educational program has exploded and is now one of the largest holistic events in the country, hosting 1800 like-minded cruisers.

With 45 teachers, 145 classes, a delicious vegan menu (with regular ship menu options available) and a social/party almost every night, the program has something for everyone interested in health and longevity. Guests choose daily from a wide spectrum of classes and workshops ranging from several types of yoga, fitness and meditation to presentations on integrative medicine, plant-based nutrition, ten cooking classes and many lectures given by some of the world’s leading authorities in holistic health, including Drs. T. Colin Campbell, Michael Greger, Neal Barnard, Michael Klaper and Caldwell Esselstyn, Jr. Add all this to four exotic ports of call on the upcoming March 11-18, 2017 sailing, and you can see why National Geographic gave Holistic Holiday at Sea such high marks. According to founder Pukel, “The event is a relaxing vacation/educational experience that has profoundly changed thousands of lives.”

For Holistic Holiday at Sea information please call 1-800-4960989 or visit www.holisticholidayatsea.com. See ad, page 44.

Run 10 Feed 10 Race

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oin EcoTrek Fitness in celebrating its 10 year anniversary and charity run in Mill Point Park (at the end of School Street) in Spring Lake for an 8am start, September 17. Run 10 Feed 10 began in 2012 with the “hope of raising money and awareness for the dire hunger problem in America.” The concept is simple: sign up for a 10k race and feed 10 people in your own town. Can’t

sin is an ancient concept.

Yet we find that it is referenced very seldom, if at all, in modern perspectives on self-development and spiritual growth. Hsin is what they pay attention to in The Entire Concept. Robert T Hammer will be in Grand Rapids for a three day informational seminar discussing this concept September 30 - October 2.

Robert T Hammer

Does this describe you?

Your shelves contain numerous self-improvement and spiritual growth books. You’ve engaged with authors such as Paulo Coelho, Don Miguel Ruiz, Eckhart Tolle, Marianne Williamson, Gary Zukov – just to name a few. You’ve attended workshops and seminars. They may have appealed to you intellectually, evoked positive emotion, and felt right in your gut. And still, when it comes to consistent, effective action, breakdowns occur with unwanted regularity. So, in the presence of all the encouragement about “what” to do; a feeling still exists that somehow there is still a key, fundamental piece missing as to “how” to do. Then consider this: the possibility that everything that you have ever learned could synthesize into a productive whole with the new experience of one fundamental distinction. The distinction between natural and normal balance. If you have yet to acquire the experience of this distinction, then The Entire Concept curriculum may profoundly alter your life path by reconnecting you with your natural balance. Hsin is the portal to that experience. It provides you with the “how to” of your life.

For additional information and to pre-register for this experiential seminar contact: Robert T Hammer of The Entire Concept at finetuning4u@gmail.com or call 206-551-3319.

Integrative Medical Center Expands

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rand Rapids Natural Heath is committed to optimizing the health and well-being of their clients and the greater Grand Rapids community. With this in mind, they announced their upcoming open house on October 1 from 2-6, to coincide with their recent office expansion, adding 2500 more square feet of treatment space, five new treatment rooms, new practitioners, and new services. Their new practitioners include Jennifer L. Kurinsky, natural awakenings

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newsbriefs Naturopathic Doctor; Dave Johnson, Integrative Cardiologist; and Andrea Hop, Health Coach. They have created a collaborative team of practitioners, with medical doctors and alternative practitioners, alike. Dave Johnson, MD, is an integrative cardiologist, practicing cardiology from a whole body approach. Dave will be working with our Naturopathic Doctors and the rest of our Grand Rapids Natural Health team to create a unique integrative health care center with all aspects of health addressed; mind, body and spirit, using the most natural methods possible. Their mission is to transform the way their clients and our community view health and wellness, by providing individualized, patient-centered care, with the whole person in mind.

To learn more about their services go to grnaturalhealth.com or visit them at 638 Fulton St W Suite B, Grand Rapids. See ad page 10.

Planting Peace with Will Tuttle: Words and music for a New World!

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oin in for an evening of original music and a lecture on Dr. Tuttle’s acclaimed best-seller, The World Peace Diet on Friday, September 16 at 7pm at Spirit Space, tickets are $10.

The World Peace Diet, a #1 Amazon bestseller, has been called one of the most important books of the 21st century: the foundation of a new society based on the truth of the interconnectedness of all life. “A master at recreating the deepest vibrations of the soul,” Will Tuttle’s inspiring original piano music evokes deep feelings and a sense of wonder and adventure. Come and expect to be transported, uplifted, and carried to new inner places! “A profoundly insightful and important book, The

World Peace Diet is sure to be a catalyst and powerful tool in the evolution of human consciousness.” Satya Magazine “The sounds of harmony and peace fill the heart when listening to Will Tuttle’s music. He is a master at recreating the deepest vibrations of the soul.” Michael Toms, founder, New Dimensions Radio

Dr. Will Tuttle, best-selling author, educator, pianist, and composer, has lectured and performed widely throughout North America and Europe. His doctorate degree focused on educating intuition in adults, and he has taught college courses in creativity, humanities, mythology, religion, and philosophy.

He is a recipient of The Peace Abbey’s Courage of Conscience Award and is a Dharma Master in the Zen tradition.

For more information call 616-886-2716. Spirit Space is located at 3493 Blue Star Hwy in Saugatuck. See ad page 30.

30 days of Peace: September 2016

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grassroots movement by nonprofit, nonpolitical people, interest groups and organizations of Muskegon County who share a common concern to practice peace, justice and equality with a clear intention to create, cultivate and coordinate 30 Days of Peace in the Muskegon County community. Inspired by The United Nations that declared September 21st as the International Day of Peace, citizens around the globe have extended this vision to a month of peace.

Becoming a voice for peace, justice and equality as responsible world citizens takes intention, focus and action.

Collaborative projects and programs promoting nonviolence are essential for healthy personal relationships, families and neighborhoods; faith communities, educational institutions and the environment.

Museum exhibits, library activities and book clubs, tell a story or spin a yarn, film festivals or dance recitals, restorative

Wood & Saw

REMODELING AND HOME BUILDING Toxic-Free | Energy Efficient | Sustainable 616.834.2480 WoodandSaw.com Holland, MI 6

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and social justice workshops, make a joyful noise, organize a community choir, dive into classroom projects with arts & crafts, conduct or attend conflict management courses, fly dove kites on the beach, hang prayer flags from the trees, teach tolerance, make pinwheels for peace, go to an Institute for Healing Racism, make a peace quilt, help a veteran, write a kindness or building character journal, make a drum circle, start a prayer vigil, have a parade for kids, light a candle, domestic violence programs, walk a labyrinth, write letters, send a package, sing a song, go to an urban farm, recycle and be kind to Earth, have interfaith dialogs, anger management retreats, plant a tree, adopt an animal, enhance your menu, have a petting zoo. Simply bring people together to help build a more peaceful world.

xperiential a dynamic, innovative approach

For more information: Visit 30 Days of Peace Muskegon Home Page, Group Page and Event Pages on Facebook or contact:Kryssis Diane Bjork, 231-747-8138 or email kryssisbjork@comcast.net

Kent County Parks Foundation “Something’s Grilling Gala”

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addressing men's emotionality

he latest addition to Millennium Park, “The Meadows” will be the location for the seventh Something’s Grilling Gala to benefit the Kent County Parks Foundation and Millennium Park. This casual event will be held on September 15th at 6pm and will recognize the work of community leaders who have helped preserve Kent County’s natural areas and provide outdoor recreation spaces for the community. Something’s Grilling is the Kent County Parks Foundation’s largest fundraiser. Since 2004, the bi-annual event has raised over $900,000 in support of the development and expansion of Kent County parks and trail systems. Half of the proceeds are dedicated specifically to Millennium Park.

Today, Millennium Park is one of the nation’s largest urban parks, encompassing almost twice as much land as Central Park in New York City. The 1400 acres along the Grand River that had once been used for gravel, salt, oil, and gypsum mining has been reclaimed and restored for the enjoyment of the entire community. Facilities within the park include a six-acre beach and splash pad, boat rental facilities, nearly 18 miles of trails, accessible fishing platforms, and a myriad of other outdoor recreation opportunities.

The Meadows is a 50-acre addition to the park that includes The William F. Grant Pavilion, The Currie Family Amphitheater and the Employees of Universal Products Boardwalk. The Grant Pavilion can seat 300 people and features a 4,300-square-foot plaza overlooking one of the park’s spring-fed lakes. Money raised from previous Something’s Grilling Galas provided funding for this plaza that will be featured at the event.

Tickets can be purchased on the Kent County Parks Foundation website: KCPF.org. For more information contact Kate Meyer at kate.meyer@ kentcountyparksfoundation.org or (616) 458-2080.

herapy, for men understanding gender role strain

a conference for clinicians ERT is an approach that will reach even your most resistant clients.

This conference is for practitioners who want to explore masculinity's complex relationship to health and well-being, and develop innovative approaches that help male clients sustain a more whole-hearted masculinity through emotional depth and relational fitness.

November 11th, 8.30-4.30 Marywood Conference Center To register, visit www.menscenter.org/confernce or call 616.456.1178

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Reflexology and Massage Therapy

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Vegan Diet Benefits Kids’ Heart Health

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esearch from the Cleveland Clinic has found that a plant-based diet could be more effective than even the American Heart Association’s recommended five-food-groups diet for reducing childhood heart disease.

The research, led by Cleveland Clinic pediatrician Michael Macknin, tested 28 obese children between the ages of 9 and 18 that had high cholesterol levels.

For four weeks, 14 of the children ate the American Heart Association diet, while the other half ate a vegan, plant-based diet.

Children on the plant-based diet were found to have significantly lower weight, systolic blood pressure and total cholesterol numbers, and improved mid-arm circumference, body mass index and level of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol.

They also had lower levels of insulin and two heart disease markers, myeloperoxidase and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein—all indicating improvements in their cardiovascular health.

By comparison, children on the American Heart Association diet saw significantly lower weight, waist circumference, mid-arm circumference and myeloperoxidase levels, indicating enhanced immunity, but did not exhibit the other improvements.

“As the number of obese children with [unhealthy] high cholesterol continues to grow, we need to have effective lifestyle modifications to help them reverse their risk factors for heart disease,” says Macknin. “Cardiovascular disease begins in childhood.

If we can see such significant improvements in a four-week study, imagine the potential for improving long-term health into adulthood if a whole population of children began to eat these diets regularly.”

Black Raspberries Bolster Heart Health

R Relieve Stress and Anxiety Call Today to Schedule Your Massage Appointment 5260 Kalamazoo Ave SE Kentwood, MI. 49508 616.827.2350 www.NaturalChoiceChiro.com 8

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esearch from Korea University Anam Hospital, in Seoul, South Korea, has found that black raspberries significantly decrease artery stiffness and increase heart-healthy endothelial progenitor cells (EPC), which assist in repairing damaged blood vessels.

The study tested 51 patients that met at least three criteria for metabolic syndrome, including waist circumference measurements, high triglycerides, low high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol levels, high blood pressure and/or symptoms of glucose intolerance. The subjects were split into two groups; one received 750 milligrams per day of black raspberry extract for 12 weeks, while the other group received a placebo.

The researchers assessed the radial artery augmentation index, a measure for blood vessel wall stiffness, and values for this measurement decreased by 5 percent in the black raspberry group. The placebo group’s levels increased by 3 percent.

In addition, EPC counts increased in the black raspberry group by 19 microliters, versus a drop of 28 microliters in the placebo group. Black raspberries contain a number of heart-healthy compounds, including phenolic acids, resveratrol, flavonoids and tannins.

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Breast Milk Supports Preemies’ Developing Brains

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study from the Washington University School of Medicine, in St. Louis, Missouri, has found that premature babies that receive at least 50 percent of their diet from breast milk in their first month have significantly better brain development than babies that consume less breast milk.

The researchers tested 77 infants born an average of 14 weeks before their full nine-month term—referred to as preterm or preemie. The brain scans of the infants were compared with how much breast milk they received while in the natal intensive care unit. Mother’s breast milk was not distinguished from breast milk provided by others.

Senior researcher, physician and child psychiatry professor Cynthia Rogers explains, “With MRI scans, we found that babies fed more breast milk had larger brain volumes. This is important because several other studies have shown a correlation between brain volume and cognitive development.”

Preterm birth has been linked with neurological and psychiatric problems later in life, and the researchers plan to continue to study the children. “We want to see whether this difference in brain size has an effect on any of these developmental milestones,” says Rogers.

MS Patients Improve with High-Tone Electrotherapy

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esearch from Poland’s Department of Rehabilitation and Physical Medicine, in Lodz, has determined that a pulsedfrequency electrotherapy treatment can significantly improve the functional abilities of multiple sclerosis patients.

The researchers tested 20 multiple sclerosis patients randomly divided into two groups. For 60 minutes, one group was given the frequency therapy and the other underwent exercise therapy. The frequency therapy group showed improvement in nine of 10 different evaluation tests of each patient.

The patented High Tone Frequency technique was developed by Dr. Hans-Ulrich May, a professor of medical engineering from Germany’s University of Karlsruhe. natural awakenings

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healthbriefs

Vitamin C-Rich Produce Guards Against Cataracts

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esearch from King’s College, in London, shows that dietary vitamin C reduces the development of cataracts that interfere with vision by obscuring the lens of the eye, keeping light from striking the retina.

The researchers followed 324 pairs of female twins for 10 years. Food questionnaires were administered to each pair to determine their intake of dietary nutrients.

The researchers also examined each of the twins’ eyes for the development of cataracts. The scientists found those that consumed the most foods with vitamin C had fewer cataracts than those that ate foods with less of the vitamin.

These findings did not apply to supplemental vitamin C, helping researchers better understand the superior nature of natural vitamin C. Natural vitamin C contains multiple bioflavonoids, rutin and several co-factors, such as factors J, K and P, tyrosinase and ascorbinogen.

Senior study author and eye surgeon Dr. Chris Hammond says, “The findings could have significant impact, particularly for the aging population, by suggesting that simple dietary changes such as increased intake of fruits and vegetables as part of a healthier diet could help protect them from cataracts.”

Less Sleep Brings on the Munchies

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ecent research from the University of Chicago’s Sleep, Health and Metabolism Center has found that not getting enough sleep increases a cannabinoid chemical in the body that increases appetite. The result is a lack of control in snacking.

The researchers tested 14 young adults by comparing the results of four nights of normal sleep with four nights of only four-and-a-half hours of sleep. The researchers found that after reduced sleep, the subjects’ hunger increased significantly and their ability to resist afternoon snacking decreased.

This surge in snacking urges also matched significantly increased circulating levels of endocannabinoid 2-arachidonoylglycerol, which peaked in the afternoon, coinciding with the increase in snack cravings.

“We found that sleep restriction boosts a signal that may increase the hedonic aspect of food intake,” concludes lead study author Erin Hanlon, Ph.D., from the University of Chicago Medical Center.

What happens is not as important as how you react to what happens. ~Ellen Glasgow 10

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

Lying Labels

New Term Disguises High-Fructose Corn Syrup The Corn Refiners Association (CRA) has resorted to creating a new label for high-fructose corn syrup (HFCS) by calling it “fructose syrup” or just “fructose” because numerous scientific studies have linked it to obesity, Type 2 diabetes and autism.

HFCS is a highly processed chemical sweetener used in many processed foods, including breads, cookies, candy, condiments and soft drinks. It extends the shelf life of products and is often cheaper than sugar, the primary reasons manufacturers use it.

Standard HFCS contains from 42 to 55 percent fructose. The new term is being used when foods contain HFCS-90, which has “just” 90 percent fructose.

Identifying HFCS-90 as an ingredient bizarrely gives food makers a green light to use statements such as “Contains no high-fructose corn syrup” or “No HFCS” on the product label, thus misleading buyers.

Bart Hoebel, a psychology professor at Princeton University, reports, “When rats are drinking high-fructose corn syrup at levels well below those in soda pop, they’re becoming obese; every single one, across the board. Even when rats are fed a high-fat diet, you don’t see this; they don’t all gain extra weight.”

Source: NaturalNews.com

Kinesthetic Kids New Desks Aid Learning via Movement

Healing Recipe Cooking May Be the Future of Medicine

In 2010, chronic disease accounted for 86 percent of all healthcare spending; four years later, the cost of treating heart disease alone totaled $315.4 billion, including medication and hospital care. At the Goldring Center for Culinary Medicine at Tulane University, medical students are learning cooking skills to better advise patients on regaining and maintaining their health through nutrition.

By getting them to approach healthful food preparation with ease and awareness, this next generation of doctors is striving to provide building blocks for long-term health management. “When we see healthier eating, we see more disease prevention and fewer hospital stays, which means less money spent on health care,” says Chef Leah Sarrris, program director.

Since 2012, 20 medical schools have adopted Tulane’s program, including the University of California-Los Angeles Clinical and Translational Science Institute, University of IllinoisChicago and University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine, in a partnership with the Kendall College School of Culinary Arts.

Students complete eight classes of three hours each, and fourth-year students can choose from seminars that focus on different clinical interests, including nutritional support for those coping with celiac disease, inflammatory bowel disease, food allergies, diabetes or pregnancy. Students also teach free public cooking classes. This integrative understanding of health care may change the way the medical system operates.

photo courtesy of Moving-Minds.com

Educators at Charleston County schools, in South Carolina, know that more movement and exercise makes kids better learners, even as the amount of time devoted to physical education (PE) and recess has been declining sharply in the U.S.

“If you ask anyone in education if they prefer PE or class instruction, they say instruction every time,” says David Spurlock, coordinator of health, wellness and physical education for the Charleston County school district.

“Yet, what we’re trying to show is that more movement equals better grades, behavior and bodies.”

Charles Pinckney Elementary School, in Charleston, employs Active Brains, a program that uses 15 stations through which students rotate during the class. Each station has a unique exercise component such as a mini-basketball hoop or an exercise bike, and is focused on a different academic task such as spelling or math flashcards. This is the first classroom in the U.S. equipped with only kinesthetic desks. The program has been in operation for three years and has a waiting list of students excited to try p uthe b l new i s h eapproach. r@naturalwestmichigan.com | 616.604.0480 Source: Yes magazine natural awakenings

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globalbriefs Hello Escargot

Pest Control Without Chemicals Indian runner ducks have been used in Asia for thousands of years to control pests. Now they’re being used in a South African vineyard to eat snails that damage the vines. On the Vergenoegd Wine Estate, in Stellenbosch, South Africa, about 1,000 of the well-behaved quackers parade twice a day into a vineyard to rid it of pests, as they have done for at least 30 years.

Denzil Matthys, the duck caretaker at Vergenoegd, confirms that the ducks help make the farm sustainable. “We try to keep a pesticide-free farm by using the ducks,” he says.

Marlize Jacobs, the farm manager and winemaker, says snails are a big problem at Vergenoegd because of the vineyard’s proximity to the ocean. “After winter, the vineyards bud,” she says. “Those buds are succulent bits of food and snails love to eat them. If we don’t control them, they will absolutely destroy the vineyard.”

Watch a video at Tinyurl.com/DuckPestControl.

Nuclear Advancement

Aerospace Giant Closes in on Superior Fusion Power

on

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Lockheed Martin scientists have made a breakthrough in developing a nuclear-fusion-based power source, and estimates that the first commercial reactors, small enough to fit on the back of a truck, could be available within 10 years. “We can make a big difference on the energy front,” says project head Tom McGuire. The company has been working for 60 years to find a way to make a power source based on nuclear fusion as a safer and more efficient alternative to the fission reactors in use since the Cold War era.

Nuclear power plants produce dangerous radiation as a byproduct and leave behind toxic nuclear waste that can endure for centuries. By contrast, fusion, which powers the stars, occurs when small, light atoms such as hydrogen smash together to form heavier atoms, releasing enormous amounts of energy. To date, scientists have been unable to initiate fusion reactions on Earth without using more energy than the reaction produces.

Preliminary work suggests that it will be feasible to build a 100 megawatt reactor 10 times smaller than traditional fission reactors. That’s enough power to light up a city of 80,000 homes. Lockheed Martin is now seeking government and industry partners to build a prototype.

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PEACE WITHIN

A Sound Healer Shares His Journey

By Allison Gorman to Spiritual Wholeness

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ost people can’t trace their careers back to a single moment. Michael Brant DeMaria can trace his to a single note on the piano—a note he struck over and over again as a shy, sensitive child seeking solace from pain.

“My parents thought I was autistic,” DeMaria writes in his new book, Peace Within. “Years later people made fun of me, saying I was a new age musician before there was a new age.

Looking back on it as a psychologist, I realize now that I was self-soothing and putting myself into a trance of sorts that was healing for me—and the sound literally took me to another world—or perhaps reminded me of the true, real world of silence and vibration infusing all we see.”

That first note would lead to a career DeMaria never imagined when he began using indigenous instruments to create meditation music for his intuitive therapy practice in Pensacola.

He now has a wall full of industry awards, including a Grammy and four Grammy nominations. On any given day, 150,000 people are listening to his music on Pandora.

But commercial success and critical acclaim are mere side products of DeMaria’s music, which is intended, above all, to heal. He knows that it saved him, the wounded child, and then saved him again years later, when he was on the brink of suicide. And music is the vehicle for his life mission, which is to bring healing to others by forging the connection between heart and soul.

“Self-Healing,Intuitively”

When DeMaria struck that first note, he was 7 years old and had just had his third surgery. He was in physical pain, with hundreds of stitches in his abdomen, and in emotional pain from the terrors he’d endured in the hospital. A year earlier, he’d had a near-death experience on the operating table, entering a subtle world of color and sound,

a world so peaceful that returning to his body left him in a state of shock for weeks. That sense of disconnection, which had never entirely gone away, had become debilitating.

“Now I understand that I was suffering from post-traumatic stress,” he says. “I was having depersonalization, I felt like life wasn’t quite real, I was suffering physically and emotionally, but I didn’t have words for it.”

At some point in his anguish, he wandered over to the piano, struck a single note—and listened, eyes closed, as the dissipating sound carried him past nightmarish memories of a cold gurney, masked strangers, the cloying smell of ether and the vortex of unconsciousness, to a place of light and love and peace.

The sensation is so acute, even upon recollection, that DeMaria must pause for a moment when describing it. “It took me to that place that I remembered, where there was no pain,” he finally says. “It took me to the other side. And I would do that over and over again. Many times it was the same note; other times I would change to a note just above or below it. I didn’t realize for decades that I was self healing, just intuitively.”

A New Source of Healing

From that point on, music was his refuge. His parents—conservative Catholics who had bought a house in the Connecticut wilderness to protect their three sons from radical 1960s culture— were appalled when their middle son, upon seeing his first live jazz performance, announced that he wanted to be a drummer. “They were horrified,” DeMaria recalls. “I was supposed to be a doctor.”

Despite their reservations, they got him a drum kit and some lessons, and he blossomed. (Earlier piano lessons had been a bust, he says, as his teachers had insisted that he learn to read music rather than compose his own. “I

was a terrible piano student. For me, music was an intuitive, inner process, grounding me from the inside out.

That’s why it meant so much to me.”)

As a freshman in college, DeMaria bought the first of dozens of synthesizers; he loved putting on headphones and creating cosmic sounds. As he forged his way through academia— earning dual degrees in philosophy and psychology by age 20, then a master’s in psychology and, at 25, a doctorate in clinical psychology—he found that a few hours at a piano or keyboard were natural stress relief.

But it wasn’t until he was 31, and well established as a Pensacola therapist, that he went on a vision quest with a Blackfoot teacher in Montana and discovered Native American flute, which “felt like an ancient friend. As much as I loved the piano and the drums, it slayed me. The heart opening that happened when I was in Glacier National Park, hearing the Native American flute for the first time, was one of the most powerful moments of my life.”

Indigenous instruments, originally created by hunter-gatherer cultures, typically have a five-note (pentatonic) scale in a minor key. The result, DeMaria says, is an earthy, bittersweet sound with a unique ability to tap into what he calls the “Great Loving”—the heart-centered energy connecting us to each other and to the whole world, seen and unseen. It makes sense, then, that indigenous music was always intended as a spiritual tool, a dynamic force to facilitate healing, transcendentalism and communal bonding.

“That’s what’s so strange about our culture,” he remarks. “It’s one of the very few where music is seen primarily as entertainment, and only practiced by professionals.”

DeMaria took to the Native American flute instinctively. Its evocative tones would become the centerpiece of his healing music.

Riding the Wave

By then DeMaria was spending much of his professional time guiding clients through meditation and relaxation sessions. When he couldn’t find accompanying music he liked, he decided

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to create his own. He set up a small recording studio in his house, bought digital software, and made meditation audios backed by calming blends of piano, synthesizer and indigenous instruments. “I was making New Age music before there was such a thing, at least in the marketplace,” he says.

He also played his flute at speaking engagements, and it wasn’t long before people began requesting CDs of his music without the voiceovers. The result, The River, came out in 2003.

Created and marketed specifically for use in hospice, the album was inspired the Native American belief that people do not die, but simply change form, like a river flowing into the ocean.

The River made back in sales what it cost DeMaria to manufacture it; he still thought of himself not as a professional musician, but as a sound healer.

He began working on two projects simultaneously: Siyotanka, a play and accompanying soundtrack about the origins of the Native American flute; and, Ocean, a follow-up to The River.

Ocean turned into a five-year journey of healing, with DeMario as the patient. It also made him a New Age phenomenon.

Ebb and Flow

The title turned out to be prophetic.

Ocean was shaped by Hurricane Ivan, which sent a 15-foot wall of water through DeMaria’s home. He recorded the album in a makeshift studio in his office, where he was living with his family. The sound is raw, and not only because of the ambient noise he couldn’t edit out. It reflects an old wound reopened by a series of fresh traumas: the death of a friend, an unex-

pected legal entanglement, yet another surgery. Ivan was just the final blow.

DeMaria, who since childhood had keenly felt the omnipresence of death, was having suicidal thoughts. “There’s a feeling that doing it yourself gives you some control over it,” he says. “There were times when I literally carried my daughter’s picture with me so I wouldn’t kill myself…. And so, when I was working on this album, I was purely thinking of my own healing. I was that 6- or 7-year-old kid in abject pain.”

The music did what it was meant to do: when Ocean was finished, DeMaria was in a far better place. But he wasn’t sure the result was marketable.

“I don’t think anybody’s going to get this album,” he told his publicist. “To be honest, I think it sucks.”

Then Ocean was released and the first reviews came back. “I just got on my knees and cried,” he recalls. “I couldn’t believe it was touching people at the same level it touched me.”

Ocean climbed to the top of the New Age charts and was nominated for a Grammy in the highly competitive New Age category, building on the momentum created by Siyatonka, which also topped the charts, won a Native American Music Award, and earned a Grammy nomination in the smaller Native American category.

It was the beginning of long string of commercial and critical achievements, including four consecutive Grammy nominations, ZMR awards for New Age music, a contract with multimedia publisher Sounds True, and a collaborative Grammy for a children’s album.

Then in 2013, DeMaria was notified that his latest album, The Maiden of Stonehenge, had been disqualified

from Grammy consideration because of a technicality regarding its release date.

When he got the call, he happened to be at the hospital with his mother, who had died in his arms before being revived.

“It’s funny how Spirit works,” he says.

There are more important things than the Grammies, he thought. He was, after all, an artist-healer—and having made or collaborated on 11 albums, his artist was well fed. “I completely disengaged from that for the next two years while I accompanied my mother on her death process,” he says.

Peace Within

And so he was back where he started with The River: bringing healing to the dying. If that concept seems incongruous, he says, it’s only because our culture creates a false sense of separation between the seen (life and light) and the unseen (death and dark). Quantum physics only reinforced what indigenous cultures have long known: that all these energies are interconnected.

“Healing comes from the same word as whole,” he explains. “For the soul to heal, sometimes the body must die; in fact, our ultimate healing is to become one with the soul, and the heart is the gateway to the soul. All spiritually advanced cultures—soul-centric cultures, as opposed to egocentric cultures, which ours is—understood this.”

This energetic shift—reflected in the desire to show gratitude and appreciation to others, to forgive and be forgiven—is required for us to die peacefully, he says. “Once we are healed at the heart’s center, death becomes nothing more than a mother’s warm embrace.”

In Peace Within, DeMaria poignantly describes being called to the

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bedside of a young mother, a surfer, who was dying of cancer. By the time he arrived, she had slipped into a coma, but the nurses encouraged him to play for her anyway. And so he did what he does as a healer: he improvised, allowing the music to flow through his heart to hers.

She later awoke from her coma, describing a vivid dream in which someone had played beautiful music for her. When she was told that it wasn’t a dream, DeMaria writes, she asked if I could return again, now that she was awake and conscious so that she could meet me.

Of course, I couldn’t wait to get back and meet her.

“Would you play for me again?” she asked me after we talked.

I said, “Of course.”

I closed my eyes and played my flute, and my fingers began doing things they didn’t usually do. I finished, kissed my flute as I always do, and opened my eyes.

Marie said, “Thank you so much.

That song is just beautiful. What do you call it?”

I said, “I don’t know, I have never played it before. It must be your

song, Marie’s song.”

Her eyes welled up and she said, “It reminds me of the wave I road in on, and it gives me courage to ride the wave back out.”

Maria left her body a few days later, shedding it like a cocoon that had served its purpose. I know in my heart that her soul is free and dancing in the infinite expanse of spirit—diving, jumping, and singing her soul song.

Part storybook, part workbook, Peace Within is as much a healing tool as DeMaria’s music. In it, he lays bare his own healing journey, which he offers as both encouragement and example for others.

Of course, his journey isn’t over.

As an artist-healer, he must perpetually balance the two roles, letting one inform the other without the distractions of fleeting fame.

“When all is said and done,” he says, “it has nothing to do with awards or notoriety. In my music, I am not interested in trying to impress, while at the same time I want to fully show up and not hide—my prayer is to be sincere and authentic and allow the music to come through me and not from me.

And if I can be a vehicle for that in the world, I’ve done my job.”

Online Resources from Dr. Michael Brant DeMaria • Visit YouTube.com/mbdemaria to see the 7x7 Meditation Challenge, in which DeMaria guides viewers through a basic healing, relaxing meditation seven minutes a day for seven days.

• Visit the video blog series “Mindful Moment with Michael” at MichaelDeMaria. com or on YouTube.

• Watch DeMaria’s healing music videos at YouTube.com/ mbdemaria.

• Sign up for the newsletter at MichaelDeMaria.com to receive a 10-minute instructional video (with a downloadable PDF) of DeMaria’s “Three Breaths to Destress” exercise/micromeditation.

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September 2016

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Music as Medicine Music Soothes, Energizes and Heals Us

by Kathleen Barnes

A

s primeval drumbeats echo across an African savannah, the rhythms circle the globe, picked up by the chants and rattles of shamans gracing Amazonian jungles and Siberian tundra. They’re repeated in Gregorian chants filling medieval cathedrals and “om” meditations sounding in Himalayan caves and yoga classes everywhere.

They gently echo in the repeated tones of mothers’ lullabies, happy hummings as we go about our day and the melodies of Mozart.

Music is the soundtrack of our lives, whether we’re aware of it or not.

It exists within, uniting and guiding us, and has helped heal body and spirit since the dawn of humanity. National Aeronautics and Space Administration scientists recently discovered that the universe itself has a song.

Pioneering Practitioners

From the soothing tones of a harp to the jarring screeches of a construction site, the stress-reducing or stress-producing properties of sound are familiar to us all.

“Stress is an underlying cause of the vast majority of all illnesses, and sound and music are effective in relieving stress and bringing stillness,” says Jonathan Goldman, an internationally recognized pioneer in harmonics and sound healing and director of the Sound Healers Association in Boulder, Colorado.

Through researching his many books, including The 7 Secrets of Sound 16

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Healing, Goldman is convinced of the profound effect sound has on the human organism. “The simple chanting of the sound ‘om,’ or ‘aum,’ in addition to instilling calmness and relaxation, causes the release of melatonin and nitric oxide. It relaxes blood vessels, releases soothing endorphins, reduces the heart rate and slows breathing,” he explains.

“Sound can change our immune function,” wrote the late Dr. Mitchell Gaynor, former director of medical oncology at New York’s Weill-Cornell Medical College for Complementary and Integrative Medicine in his book The Healing Power of Sound. “After either chanting or listening to certain forms of music, your Interleukin-1 level, an index of your immune system, goes up between 12-anda-half and 15 percent. Further, about 20 minutes after listening to meditative-type music, the immunoglobulin levels in the blood are significantly increased. Even the heart rate and blood pressure are lowered. There’s no part of your body not affected. Its effects even show up on a cellular and sub-cellular level.”

Practical Applications

Consider some of music’s scientifically validated health benefits:

Stress: Singing, whether carrying a tune or not, is a powerful way to combat stress, according to many studies. A recent joint study by German and British researchers published in Frontiers in Human Neuroscience confirms that

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simply listening to soothing music results in significantly lower levels of the stress hormone cortisol. The more intense the experience is in singing or playing an instrument, the greater the stress reduction. A collaborative study by several Swedish universities showed that group singing caused participants’ heart rates to synchronize, producing relaxation effects similar to that achieved through group meditation.

Cancer: Gaynor used music to treat even advanced cancer patients for decades, considering it a “disease of disharmony.” He advocated re-harmonizing the body with sound vibrations that affect virtually every cell, especially enhancing immune function and potentially preventing cancer from spreading. Gaynor primarily used crystal bowls to produce deep relaxation and harmonize dysrhythmic cells in patients, but also confirmed the healing effects of certain vibratory tones of drumming and Tibetan metal gongs.

Several studies confirm that listening to any kind of soothing music relieves anxiety in cancer patients; a large study from Philadelphia’s Drexel University confirms that it also relieves pain, lowers blood pressure, improves breathing and minimizes nausea associated with chemotherapy.

Depression: Drumming can better counter depression than the prescription drug Prozac, according to a recent study by England’s Royal College of Music. Those that participated in a weekly drumming group experienced significantly reduced symptoms compared to a control group.

Substance Abuse: University of California, Los Angeles, scientists found that drumming was especially helpful for a group of Native Americans struggling with such issues.

Smartphone Addiction: Korean research found that music therapy is helpful in overcoming this condition.

Immune Dysfunction: The same British study of drumming’s antidepressant effects saw similar improvement in immune function, plus an anti-inflammatory response that continued for at least three months after the study period.

Neuroendocrine Disorders: Researchers at Pennsylvania’s Meadville Medical Center Mind-Body Wellness Group found that drumming effectively

helped drummers (skilled and unskilled) suffering from neuroendocrine disorders such as pituitary tumors and intestinal issues caused by disconnections between the endocrine gland and nervous systems. They further confirmed that group drumming reduced stress chemicals such as cortisol in the drummers.

Muscle Tension Dysphonia: Even tuneless humming sounds like “umhum” can have a measurable therapeutic effect on individuals that have lost their voices due to overuse.

Pain: When a group of British citizens suffering from chronic pain joined a choir, a Lancaster University study found they were better able to manage their condition for improved quality of life.

Just listening to harp music for 20 minutes decreased anxiety, lowered blood pressure and relieved pain in a group of U.S. heart surgery patients with short-term pain participating in a University of Central Florida study in Orlando.

Alzheimer’s Disease: In addition to reducing the agitation and anxiety frequently accompanying Alzheimer’s disease, researchers at Florida’s University of Miami School of Medicine found that a group of patients that participated in music therapy for four weeks experienced increased levels of the calming brain chemical melatonin.

How It Works

“Humming or singing causes longer exhalations than normal, helping to naturally eliminate toxins and acidity,” says Dr. Madan Kataria, of Mumbai, India, who has spawned 5,000 laughter clubs worldwide.

“We started experimenting with the vowel sounds and humming sound.

An early unpublished humming study I did in Denmark showed that people that hummed anything for just 10 minutes were able to reduce their systolic blood pressure by 10 to 15 points, their

In Nigeria, we say that rhythm is the soul of life, because the whole universe revolves around rhythm; when we get out of rhythm, that’s when we get into trouble. ~Babatunde Olatunji, drummer and social activist diastolic by four to five points and their pulse rate by 10 beats per minute.” Kataria found that people with breathing problems like asthma and emphysema experienced especially positive effects because it strengthened belly muscles used in breathing.

Kataria is also a fan of kirtan—Hindu devotional call-and-response chants often accompanied by ecstatic dancing.

“Kirtan takes away self-consciousness or nervousness and anxiety,” he says.

Dr. Eben Alexander, who recorded his near-death experience in Proof of Heaven: A Neurosurgeon’s Journey into the Afterlife, says the “indescribable” cosmic music he experienced has helped him come to understand the effects of specific sound frequencies on the brain. He now provides audio tools to help bring the brain to a higher state and help it match that higher and more conscious state. In his medical practice in Charlottesville, Virginia, he often employs music from a patient’s past to help them emerge from a brain injury or coma and even “reconnect pathways in a damaged brain.”

Alexander explains that binaural beats and other sound effects combine to create “brain entrainment” and also in theory, “monotonize” it to free awareness and access realms other than the physical. “It’s magical what the right type of music can do to the brain stem to free up our consciousness,” he observes.

No Talent Needed

Experts agree that people without musical talent are able to experience the same

Nature’s Healing Sounds The calming sounds of rushing water and gentle breezes are well known; science is now confirming the therapeutic effects of singing birds. Belgian researchers confirmed that bird song helps drown out the stressful effects of traffic noise, and Korean scientists found it makes people feel less crowded. A study published in the American Journal of Physiology showed that it can even help regulate participants’ circadian rhythms, contributing to restful sleep and overall wellness.

benefits as virtuosos, based on their degree of engagement with music. Anyone can hum, and most research confirms that benefits are enhanced in creating music rather than merely listening to it.

Group singing has become increasingly popular, especially following the hit TV show Glee. Time magazine reported in 2013 that 32.5 million American adults sang in choirs, up about 30 percent from a decade earlier.

The choice of musical genre matters. Recent data from Montreal’s McGill University shows that types of music tend to have specific effects; for example, blues slows heart rate and calms an anxious person, rock and punk can boost energy, and reggae can help control anger.

Spirit Moves

The spiritual aspects of virtually all types of music cannot be underestimated, says Michael Hove, Ph.D., a cognitive neuroscientist affiliated with Harvard Medical School and Fitchburg State University, in Massachusetts.

His research has primarily focused on drumming to induce altered states of consciousness that shamans from diverse cultures use to bring about physical and emotional healing. What Hove calls a “boring and super-predictable” drumbeat of 240 beats a minute induced a deep trance state within minutes in most subjects, and brain scans confirmed that it enabled them to focus intensely and block out distracting sounds within eight minutes.

This aligns with Alexander’s view that, “The sound of music is absolutely crucial in launching us into transcendental awareness. For the true, deep seeker, sound and vibration and the memory of music can serve as a powerful engine to help direct us in the spiritual realms.”

Kathleen Barnes has authored numerous natural health books, including her latest, Our Toxic World: A Survivor’s Guide. Connect at KathleenBarnes.com.

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September 2016

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healingways

The Modern Shaman Ancient Practices Heal Body and Soul

by Linda Sechrist

N

o longer shrouded in mystery, the ancient spiritual practice of shamanism is attracting the interest of psychologists, registered nurses and medical doctors that study its guiding principles to use personally and benefit others. They train one-on-one and in small groups with indigenous shamans in the U.S. and around the world and enroll in programs offered by established schools such as the Foundation for Shamanic Studies and The Four Winds Society. Both offer workshops and expeditions for participants to meet the specific shaman that teaches congruent

philosophy, practices and principles.

Since 1986, The Four Winds Society, with international headquarters in Miami, Florida, has graduated more than 10,000 practitioners. It teaches a genuine respect for the sacredness of metaphysical forces existing in all natural beings and objects and the connection between the material world and spiritual plane.

Dr. Daniel Rieders, a physician specializing in cardiac electrophysiology and interventional cardiology, completed the society’s basic curriculum in 2014. Having matriculated to advanced

master classes, he uses shamanic understanding, tools and skills for personal use and in his complementary medical practices, Life Rhythm Therapies and Jain Ayurveda for Optimum Health, in Palm Coast, Florida. He notes that medical procedures and prescriptions aren’t always the answer to problems.

“I’ve studied various areas of medicine and found them devoid of tools and methods that empower patients to make changes that lead to better health.

Studying shamanism means being on my own healing path of cleansing body, mind and spirit. It’s necessary for any empowered healer that aspires to inspire and generate confidence and assertiveness in others, enabling them to do what is needed to live out their life purpose,” he says.

Rieders found shamanism to be an effective complementary therapy for strengthening the body and building resilience. One of his patients was unhappy with his job, feeling it only served to support a costly family lifestyle.

Upon discerning his true desire was to own a gym and teach people how to get healthy, he took action. “A heart procedure was no longer necessary.

Stored anger can create heart disease, as well as cancer,” he remarks.

Seti Gershberg’s life changed dramatically while studying shamanism in the remote Peruvian Andes, where he lived with the indigenous Q’ero people for two years. Taking a break from a career in international investment banking, he set out to learn about a shaman’s relationship to energy, consciousness and the supernatural, with an eye to creating a system of univer-

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sal reciprocity, balance and harmony.

He was also interested in indigenous people’s views of the relationship of the physical world with self, consciousness and multi-dimensional space-time as a single interwoven idea; a continuum.

“Today, I’m an executive producer and creative director in Phoenix, Arizona, working on a video series, TV commercials and films, including two documentaries on shamanic rituals and ceremonies, as well as the Q’ero culture,” says Gershberg. He practices the Q’ero shaman’s gift of Ayni, giving of our self first without asking for anything in return. His website, ThePathOfTheSun.com, offers a “pay what you can afford” option.

Sean Wei Mah, a Native American Cree, grew up on a reservation in Alberta, Canada, around tribal medicine men that practiced smudging, ceremony and ritual. “Smudging, by burning fine powders, considered sacred medicine, is significant to any shaman as holy medicine to cleanse the body. It’s part

Spirituality is an extension of the inner being’s connection to what the conscious mind longs for, to seek a higher awareness and realize one’s full potential. ~Richard L. Alaniz of Native American life and the foundation of how we communicate, give thanks to and ask for help and guidance from the Creator. Ceremony is our church and smudging is how we purify it,” says the shaman, artist and actor known as “The Rattlemaker”.

Angaangaq Angakkorsuaq, a sha-

man, healer, storyteller and carrier of the Qilaut (wind drum), is an elder from the Kalaaleq tribe, in Greenland.

His family belongs to the traditional healers from Kalallit Nunaat. Endearingly known as Uncle, he has traveled to 67 countries to conduct ceremonies including healing circles, sacred sweat lodge purification and Melting the Ice in the Heart of Man intensives, where he teaches the spiritual significance of climate change.

He advises, “A shaman’s responsibility is to guide you on your inner path and support you in recognizing your beauty so that you can love yourself and know who you truly are.

A shaman guides you to a new level of consciousness through teachings, storytelling and ceremonies, which my grandmother taught me were the key.

All of this helps you rely on your own inner guidance.”

Linda Sechrist is a senior staff writer for Natural Awakenings. Connect at ItsAllAboutWe.com.

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The Secret of Sublime Living Savoring Perfect Present Moments

by Carl Greer

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ife has many sublime pleasures: watching the sun rise over the horizon and observing the changing colors of the clouds; laughing with a best friend; or simply feeling the grass, dirt or sand under bare feet. The Japanese have a term, mono no aware, for that sublime moment of perfection just before it fades. Sometimes it translates as sensitivity or awareness of impermanent things. It could, for instance, refer to the beauty of cherry blossoms in full bloom; the cherry trees will blossom again next year, but we do not always have a chance to see them again.

Everyday distractions can cause us to forget to slow down to enjoy moments.

The secret to sublime living is to pay close attention to the sweet pleasures of life, no matter how small, and savor them before they pass. There is no way to know which weather-perfect day will be the last before the season shifts. Enjoying such a fleeting, sublime moment may mean discarding the day’s plans, but the delights of life do not always come around again.

How easy it is to let the mind wander and forget to focus on the pleasure of an experience and the joys that life offers. We’re in danger of missing out on sublime living when we constantly prioritize what “has to be done” instead of that which is most

valued. Soon, it may seem as if the stories of our lives are being written by someone else.

We forget our power to be our own storyteller and to mindfully engage in how we spend every hour. Dissatisfying tales can be replaced when we live according to a new story we write each day, called, “My life is an extraordinary adventure,” or “I relish being with my children,” or “I express love through sharing my music,” or “I am being true to myself, and that enables me to help others heal.”

The more we focus on what brings us happiness, revitalization, purpose or meaning, the easier it will be to upgrade priorities and discard any plot lines and events that seem scripted by someone else. We can then make a new commitment to writing and living a more satisfying story for ourselves.

We can pause to contemplate our power to be the storyteller and to always remain fully present and conscious of the sublime moments.

Carl Greer, Ph.D., Psy.D., is a practicing clinical psychologist, Jungian analyst and shamanic practitioner. He teaches at the C.G. Jung Institute of Chicago and is on staff at the Replogle Center for Counseling and Well-Being. Connect at CarlGreer.com.

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Relax and Unwind Restorative Yoga Poses Foster Healing

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n classical yoga, teachers often setime for the mind to unwind,” advises quence instruction toward reaching a Carey. pinnacle pose such as an inversion or

“Restorative yoga allows both arm balance. In restorative yoga, the peak muscles and the brain to recover from pose is savasana—in which the practitiofatigue, so we are stronger, sharper and ner fully relaxes while resting flat on their better able to act in the world afterward,” back. Leeann Carey, author of Restorexplains Roger Cole, Ph.D., a certified ative Yoga Therapy: The Yapana Way to Iyengar yoga teacher in Del Mar, CaliSelf-Care and Well-Being, explains, “This fornia, and a research scientist studying passive asana practice turns down the the physiology of relaxation, sleep and branch of the nervous biological rhythms. system that keeps us Restorative poses are He attests that it also in fight-or-flight mode serves as preparation necessary to help and turns up the system for pranayama (mindallowing us to rest and restore us physically, ful yoga breathing) digest. It feels like a meditation, which mentally, emotionally and massage for the nervous require a clear, wellsystem and encourages rested, focused mind. and spiritually. self-inquiry, reflection Perfect for beginners ~Leeann Carey and change, rather than and used by longtime perfection.” practitioners to com The physical, plement other yoga mental and spiritual benefits are similar styles, restorative poses are designed to those of active yoga, but because to accurately realign and reshape the poses are held longer and supported by body. They also can be therapeutically props such as bolsters, blankets, belts tailored to support natural healing for and blocks, “There’s no stress on the issues related to tension, premenstrual tissue and joints. Each pose gifts us with syndrome, weak immune functioning, longer-lasting benefits, including more back pain, pregnancy and recovery for

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athletes. “Poses for healing may require targeted gentle stretching, but prop use will coax the body into desired positions without requiring muscular effort,” says Cole.

An early student of B.K.S. Iyengar and familiar with props, San Francisco resident and co-founder of Yoga Journal magazine Judith Hanson Lasater, Ph.D., found herself leading her first class comprised entirely of supported poses during a power blackout at a 1980

Maybe we don’t need coffee, we need rest. ~Judith Hanson Lasater workshop. “I didn’t want people walking around in the dark, so I improvised a restorative class and everyone loved it,” she recalls. She revisited the idea several years later when she personally felt the need for physical, emotional and spiritual restoration.

For a year, 90 percent of her practice was supported poses, and the switch helped her so much that it inspired her first book, Relax and Renew: Restful Yoga for Stressful Times. She’s since written more books and trained teachers in restorative yoga around the world.

As in classical yoga, a restorative sequence should be balanced with asanas (positions) from all pose classifications—backbends, twists, inversions and forward bends. It takes time for the body to comfortably settle deeply into a pose—as long as 15 minutes— therefore, a 90-minute restorative class may include only a handful of asanas.

Lasater says, “Most people don’t need more of anything from the culture in which we live. They need much more to learn to be still and at ease.”

In today’s yoga world, which seems to emphasize power and action, “Restorative yoga has become imperative to balance activity and ambition with stillness and being,” she continues. Lasater notes that while many classes are reducing savasana to as little as three minutes, students need 20 minutes.

Carey clarifies that because this

approach focuses on opening and letting go, rather than striving for the biggest stretch, “Sensation-seeking yogis may need to shift their perspective. The biggest challenge is often quieting the mind while the body is still. When a student is uncomfortable because the mind is screaming, it helps to compare it to having tight hamstrings in an active class. We’re not chasing relaxation; just breathe, feel and watch,” she says.

“Eventually, everything will let go.”

“The more our mind rebels against relaxing, the more we need it,” observes

Lasater. Students often turn to yoga as a strategy for feeling whole, and she suggests that one of the best ways to find clarity within is to listen in stillness, one savasana at a time. “It’s a gift to ourself, our family and the world,” she adds. “When we feel rested, we’re more compassionate and ready to serve the greater good.”

Meredith Montgomery, a registered yoga teacher, publishes Natural Awakenings of Gulf Coast Alabama/Mississippi (HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com).

Yoga Props 101 Yoga props can help new students maintain alignment and reduce strain while allowing veterans to more deeply explore the intricacies of their practice. Always adjust the dimensions and placement of props to ensure comfort via soft curves in the body instead of sharp angles, especially in the spine. Body weight must be distributed equally throughout the pose; key places to check for tension are the lower back, abdomen, neck and jaw muscles. Here are some basic tools.

Yoga mats should have a non-skid surface and not exceed three-sixteenths of an inch in thickness. They cushion the body, serve as a blanket or a base for props or can roll up into a bolster.

Blankets and towels pad hard areas and warm the body. Different ways of folding and rolling transform them into many firm and comfortable shapes with wide-ranging applications.

Blocks in various sizes and materials can be laid flat, placed on edge or stood on end. They can add height or length to the body, access core stability and provide leverage. A stack of hardback books or phone books tied together can work in a pinch.

Belts stabilize joints, support inflexible body parts and create traction and space. Typically two inches wide, soft belts with a D-ring locking system are easily adjusted; two soft, wide neckties or scarves tied together are suitable.

Avoid material that cuts into the skin.

Bolsters, typically cylindrical or rectangular cushions, provide good supports that are long-lasting, if sometimes costly. Combining folded blankets and rolled mats may be suitable alternatives.

Walls provide leverage, vertical support and a structure to rest upon.

A closed door or large piece of furniture such as a bookcase or refrigerator works; a room corner simultaneously supports both sides of the body.

Chairs are versatile props for any practice and make yoga accessible to those unable to get down onto the floor.

Backless folding chairs are typically used in studios, but any sturdy chair that doesn’t roll is suitable.

Sandbags, strategically positioned, encourage overworked areas to release.

Their weight also provides resistance and stability. Homemade versions can be made by loosely filling a smooth cloth bag with coarse sand, pea gravel or rice. Retail bags of beans, rice or sugar are other options.

Eye pillows block out light during resting poses, can gently weight the forehead or hands or support the back of the neck. Typically made of silk or soft cotton, they’re filled with a mixture of flax seeds or rice and soothing herbs such as lavender, peppermint or chamomile.

Sources: Restorative Yoga Therapy, by Leeann Carey; Relax and Renew,

by Judith Hanson Lasater

natural awakenings

September 2016

23

consciouseating

VEGAN LUNCHBOX Plant-Based Choices Provide Midday Boost

by Judith Fertig

W

e all have good intentions to eat more fruits and vegetables, and it’s easier if we start with just one plant-based meal a day— lunch. Natural Awakenings has enlisted the help of vegan lunchbox experts to help us all enjoy easy-to-make and colorful feasts good for home, office, school and on the road.

“Vegan food offers so much variety, especially at lunch,” says Johanna Sophia, of Pine Plains, New York, who recently hosted the online series The Raw Lunchbox Summit. “A vegan lunch gives an extra boost in the middle of the day for more brain power, clarity and energy.” She and her two children operate Johanna’s Raw Foods, which makes vegan fast food such as veggie burger bites and carrot crackers, available at health food stores.

Laura Theodore, the vegan chef

and recording artist who presents The Jazzy Vegetarian PBS television program, lives and works in the New York City area. After a childhood dominated by bologna sandwiches for lunch, she gradually changed to vegan dishes. “I began to notice a difference when I ate mostly plants,” she says. “I could do more and think better.”

Theodore favors colorful and delicious vegan foods that travel well in a lunchbox with a cold pack, so she can take them to rehearsals or wherever else she goes. She creates her zucchini fettuccine with a vegetable slicer and loves to end a meal with something naturally sweet, like her maple-raisindate truffles. Such experimenting in the kitchen led to her newest cookbook, Vegan-Ease: An Easy Guide to Enjoying a Plant-Based Diet.

Brandi Rollins, Ph.D., a researcher

at Penn State, in State College, Pennsylvania, found that switching her lunch habits to plant-based dishes made her feel better. The author of Raw Foods on a Budget determined that one of her favorites is a quick raw vegan pizza. She first marinates ingredients for 20 minutes: three medium mushrooms, thinly sliced, with one-and-a-half tablespoons of balsamic vinegar, one tablespoon of olive oil, one minced clove of garlic and a big pinch of Italian herb seasoning. Then she spreads half of a mashed avocado on a four-by-four-inch flax cracker and tops it with the marinated mushrooms, plus chopped tomato, peppers or other favorite options. Rollins advises, “You can pack all of the components individually, and then assemble the pizza at work.”

Health Foods Chef Catherine Blake, in Maui, Hawaii, studied with renowned plant-based nutritional scientist T. Colin Campbell, Ph.D. She urges her culinary students to ask, “What can I do to sparkle a little bit more tomorrow?” The author of Healthy Recipes for Friends, answers the question in her online presentation, Cooking for Brain Power, at Tinyurl.com/ChefBlakeBrainPower.

Blake’s favorite brain-power luncheon booster is a wrap with antioxidant-rich fillings, accompanied by homemade almond milk, sunflower seeds or walnuts for vitamin E and some favorite blue berries or purple grapes. She makes fresh almond milk by grinding raw almonds in a nut grinder, and then adding them plus an equal amount of filtered water to a high-speed blender. After processing and straining out the solids, the resulting nut milk is perfect for smoothies.

Changing our diets one meal at a time gives us an opportunity to see if we can feel the difference, as our vegan lunchbox experts have, while we ramp up our taste for healthier eating.

Judith Fertig writes award-winning cookbooks and foodie fiction from Overland Park, KS. Connect at JudithFertig.com.

Natural Awakenings recommends using organic and non-GMO (genetically modified) ingredients whenever possible.

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VEGAN ONCE A DAY

maple syrup in a high-performance blender and process to the consistency of soft dough. Transfer the date mixture to a medium-sized bowl.

Lots of Garlic Hummus Yields: 4 servings Accented with the tangy taste of fresh lemon juice and a bit of heat from the chili powder, this is an easy, readymade sandwich spread for a lunchbox.

1 cup chickpeas (garbanzo beans), drained and rinsed ¼ cup plus 2 Tbsp filtered or spring water, plus more as needed 5 cloves garlic, chopped 2 Tbsp sesame tahini 2 Tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice ½ tsp chili powder, plus more for garnish ¼ tsp sea salt

2 medium zucchini 2 ripe tomatoes, chopped 10 to 14 leaves fresh basil, minced 1 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 /8 to ¼ tsp sea salt Freshly ground pepper to taste Shave the zucchini lengthwise with a vegetable peeler to make the “noodles”.

Put them in a large bowl and add the tomatoes, basil, oil and garlic. Toss gently until thoroughly combined.

Recipe by Laura Theodore, Vegan-Ease: An Easy Guide to Enjoying a PlantBased Diet

Serve immediately.

Recipe by Laura Theodore, The Jazzy Vegetarian

Yields: 2 servings

Photo by David Kaplan

Maple-Raisin-Date Truffles

Recipe by Laura Theodore, Vegan-Ease: An Easy Guide to Enjoying a PlantBased Diet

Yields: 10 to 12 truffles photo by Warren Jefferson

This raw side dish is low in calories, a breeze to prepare and cool fare on

Perfect Purple Smoothie

Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Transfer the hummus to a decorated bowl and sprinkle the top with a pinch more chili powder to taste for a festive presentation.

Yields: 4 servings

Put the cocoa powder in a small bowl.

Roll the truffles in the cocoa until coated and place on the prepared baking sheet. Refrigerate 1 hour.

Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, truffles will keep up to three days.

Place all the ingredients in a blender and process until smooth. Add a bit more water if needed to achieve desired consistency.

Zucchini Fettuccine with Fresh Tomato Salsa

Using a cookie scoop, spoon out a heaping tablespoon of the date mixture and roll it into a ball. Continue until all the dough is in balls.

a hot summer day. The zucchini strips look and taste a lot like fresh pasta.

Photo by Stephen Blancett

Photo by David Kaplan

Pack a Plant-Based Lunch

These truffles make an inviting healthy dessert or snack to satisfy a sweet tooth. They’ll impress guests at any dinner party.

9 large Medjool dates, pitted 1 /8 cup raisins ¼ cup raw shredded unsweetened dried coconut 1 Tbsp maple syrup 2 Tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder Line a small baking sheet with unbleached parchment paper.

Place the dates, raisins, coconut and

Homemade almond milk is the base and cayenne powder gives it a spicy punch that intensifies the rest of the flavors. Drink one serving for lunch and chill the other for a fast and easy mid-afternoon reviver.

12 oz acai juice 6 oz almond milk 1 Tbsp soy creamer 1 cup fresh or frozen wild blueberries 1 frozen banana ½ cup fresh or frozen raspberries 1 Tbsp whole ground flaxseed meal (blueberry variety if available; try Trader Joe’s) 1 cup coconut water ice cubes 1 Tbsp macro greens or other vegan, non-GMO greens powder ½ tsp apple cider vinegar 1 to 3 dashes cayenne powder Combine all ingredients in a high-speed blender and blend until smooth.

Store in two insulated cups and keep chilled until ready to serve.

natural awakenings

September 2016

25

communityspotlight

A

nyone who has begun a fitness program knows that sticking to a program is a huge predictor of success, as evidenced by the graveyard of countless fad diets and exercise gadgets (has anyone actually seen a Thighmaster lately?). Cari Draft, founder of EcoTrek Fitness, serendipitously has found a way to help others succeed by making fitness fun and accessible by taking groups of people outdoors - away from the treadmill and gym - and onto the trails of West Michigan and beyond.

“It was an accidental start of a company in 2006,” says Draft. “I had been a personal trainer since 2001. I did the whole gym thing, and had begun making house calls to other busy business owners or those intimidated about going into the gym. After taking continuing ed courses at the Nike headquarters in Oregon, where I spent a lot of time outside, I returned home to Michigan and took a group of girlfriends out on the trail along the lakeshore. We stretched and hiked as a group and brought along resistance bands to wrap around trees for resistance training.”

After one friend exclaimed, “This is so awesome! I didn’t even realize we were working out!” something clicked for Draft. “I realized that this could be a whole new way of working out.

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Remember, at this time there were no bootcamps in Michigan like there are now,” she says. After that she began taking large groups out by herself, mainly along the lakeshore with locals.

After that first year, she took note that people were driving in from Grand Rapids to work out with her.

After that, she expanded the EcoTrek Fitness enterprise by training EcoTrek Series Leaders in Holland, Kalamazoo, Lansing, Traverse City and California, and is in the process of interviewing Series Leaders to open new Series in Ludington, South Haven and Gaylord.

She says that “wherever you are in West Michigan, you’re never more than 30 minutes from an EcoTrek Fitness workout!”

“It’s very simple to join a session,” says Draft. “Just select one listed on our calendar and show up. They are $10 each, but if you’d like to save, we offer five sessions for $40. There are no membership fees and you can come and go as you want. We have a lot of seasonal people who just attend in the fair-weather months.”

Each session is 75 minutes long, usually held in the evenings though there are morning sessions, which includes a warm up and cool down, with the workout portion being 60 minutes

NaturalWestMichigan.com

by Julie Hurley

long. “We want everyone to have no worries during this experience, so we take their keys and other valuables and secure them in one place. Then from there it’s ‘follow the leader’ - just trust in the process and we’ll get you back to your car,” says Draft.

Draft strives for EcoTrek Fitness to be accessible to all fitness levels, including those she “drags off the couch to go outside.” That tenacity has led to her national designation as one of Women’s Health Magazine’s “Action Heroes of 2016”, which is a group of 61 women who are handpicked by the Women’s Health team and designated “fitfluencers who are active both fitness-wise and in their communities.”

The nod also coincides with the celebration of her 10-year anniversary this fall. But that’s not all that Draft has going on. She has also taken on the task of bringing the Run 10 Feed 10 race to Spring Lake on September 17. Run 10 Feed 10 began in 2012 with the “hope of raising money and awareness for the dire hunger problem in America.” The concept is simple: sign up for a 10k race and feed 10 people in your own town. She coordinated with the Village of Spring Lake and got approval for the race to use a two-mile loop of the bike path along the water. Can’t run?

Walkers are encouraged. Not in town on September 17 but want to help?

Registrants sign up using their zip code and their registration fees are used to feed people within local community. http://tinyurl.com/ECOTREK10.

Though Draft has been active and fit nearly her entire life, it just doesn’t happen naturally. The key to a healthy lifestyle also requires a bit of effort in the kitchen. “I keep hammering to people - you have to make your own food. My number one tip to be successful at that is to pick one day a week that is your dedicated Meal Prep Day. Wash grapes and other fruit and set them out - making them easy to grab.

Make this your convenient grab-andgo food,” says Draft. She has taken this advice to heart, creating her own line of whole food bars that are “created from ingredients of the highest quality nutritional content, avoiding refined sugars and artificial sweeteners.” The EcoTrek Fitness Bar contains green foods like spirulina, wheat grass and spinach, and are vegan, making them a healthy option for all diets.

Draft says that her business is not really about weight loss or the quick fix. She has always been naturally active and came from “a generation of tree houses and bicycles - just being outside all the time while we were kids. That is what I gravitate toward naturally and what I want to share most with people. I love going to new trails and teaching people to literally discover what’s in their own back yard in this beautiful state.”

“It’s about how you feel when you’re done. Just get outside, go down a trail and experience the fresh air while moving your body. Immerse yourself in it, get caught out in the rain,” Draft says. “You’ll sleep better at night and have more energy during the day.”

Contact at EcoTrekFitness.com or cari@oneononefitgirl.com

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September 2016

27

wisewords

Inside the Chant with Krishna Das

Kirtan Music Transports Listeners to a Deeper Place

by Robin Fillmore

28

West Michigan Edition

How would you introduce your music?

Across the country and around the world, yoga practitioners are chanting the names of God in tongues including Sanskrit, Hindi, Punjabi and English. They’re taking kirtan music out of the temples and the yoga studios and into dance halls, universities, cathedrals and other unexpected places.

In the last decade, India’s traditional call-and-response form of chanting has been reinvented by modern devotional artists blending traditional kirtan with modern genres such as rock, rhythm and blues, hip-hop and electronica—breathing new life and devotion into yoga’s sacred chants.

Photo by Payal Kumar

I

nfluential spiritual leader Ram Dass has described Krishna Das (Jeffrey Kagel) as an example of someone whose “heartsongs” open channels to God. The Grammy-nominated kirtan artist, long considered yoga’s rock star, consistently plays to sold-out crowds worldwide. The Long Island native’s journey has gone from being a member of a popular rock band to going to India, where as a student of spiritual leader Neem Karoli Baba, the trajectory of his life and music shifted and expanded.

His 1996 debut album, One Track Heart, focused on updated chants from the ancient tradition of bhakti yoga, followed in 1998 by Pilgrim Heart, with a guest appearance

by Sting. Since then, a steady stream of 14 albums and DVDs produced on his own label have provided the soundtrack for yoga classes everywhere; the soothing rhythmic chants performed in a deep, rich timbre complements instruction in the spiritual element of the exercise.

Das’ specialty, kirtan, updates an ancient tradition of devotional chanting as meditation accompanied by instruments. A kirtan concert invites audience members to join in the experience through chanting, clapping and dancing and is characterized as a journey into the self that also connects us with each other.

What does kirtan mean to you?

For me, kirtan is all about the music.

The more ways I practice sustainable health, balance, love and music and immerse myself in a spiritual life, the more I realize that all issues distill down to simple facts. Everyone wants to be loved and happy, and to avoid suffering and being judged.

Looking at our lives, we start to see how we hurt ourselves and others and how what happens to us in daily life can be difficult to deal with. We recognize that we must find deep inner strength so we don’t get destroyed by the waves that come and try to toss us around.

NaturalWestMichigan.com

Little by little, all of our awakening practices work to transform our life. They move us from being externally oriented and reactive to being established within and quietly responsive. We come to have a wider view that life can effectively contain and envelop the different facets of ourselves and the world.

Why do many consider a kirtan event a transcendent experience far beyond the music?

There are two things: the music and where the music is carrying us. In this case, it’s the names of God, of divinity, that are real and inside us. We can call this higher sense anything we like and aim in that direction according to how we identify with it.

If we want peace in the world, then every individual needs to find peace within. We can’t create peace or happiness with anger and selfishness in our heart and mind. We can release ourselves from a limiting storyline, whatever it is, and touch a deeper place for a while. Then, when we return to our day, we are standing on slightly different ground because we have trained ourselves to let go a little bit. It’s a gradual process that takes time and effort, but it’s a joyful practice.

Do you see a shift in thinking echoing that of the 1960s that positions us to do better this time?

In the 1960s, everyone thought they were going to change the external world, but they forgot they have to change themselves, too, and little work was done inside. Today, while most people keep trying to first rearrange the outside world, more are now doing the necessary inside work, as well.

The key is to understand what’s truly possible. If we don’t understand how we can be happy and at peace in the middle of a burning fire, we won’t recognize the tools available to create that kind of light for ourselves and others.

Robin Fillmore is the publisher of the Natural Awakenings of Washington, D.C, edition.

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September 2016

29

healthykids

Raising a Music Lover Kids Thrive to Rhythms of Head and Heart

by Randy Kambic

A

resounding chorus of research shows that the traditional three R’s of essential early education should also encompass an M for music.

Playing instruments prior to and during school years can put children on a tuneful path to lifelong benefits.

Helpful Resources

NaturallyWestMI

An Interspiritual Church

An Alternative to Traditional Religion Radically Inclusive

A 2015 study by the National Association for Music Education (nafme.org) shows that youngsters harboring an early appreciation for music tend to have larger vocabularies and more advanced reading skills than their peers. The research also revealed that schools with music programs have an estimated 90.2 percent graduation rate and 93.9 percent attendance rate compared to others averaging 72.9 and 84.9 percent, respectively.

A recent study by the Children’s Music Workshop (ChildrensMusic Workshop.com), which provides instructional programming for more than 25 Los Angeles-area public and private schools, cites a host of additional benefits. These highlight music education’s role in developing the part of the brain that processes language; improving

Sunday Worship: 10:30am Wednesday Discussion & Meditation: 6:00pm Pastor Sherry Petro-Surdel 3493 Blue Star Highway Saugatuck, MI. 49453 616-836-1555 www.Spirit-Space.org

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West Michigan Edition

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spatial intelligence; thinking creatively; gaining empathy for people of other cultures; encouraging self-expression and teamwork through playing as a group; and achieving higher grades both in high school and on standardized tests.

Higher institutes of learning are equally involved. Boston’s Berklee College of Music (Berklee.edu) offers majors in making it as a music professional, performance music and music therapy, plus postgraduate degrees. Its annual five-week summer performance program in “Beantown” furthers the skills of 1,000 U.S. and international children 12 years old and up. In addition to musical skills, “We see improvement in young people’s confidence and persona,” says Oisin McAuley, director of summer programs. “It’s a truly formative experience.”

In addition, The Berklee City Music online program serves high schools nationwide, assisted by alumni in some cities. It also awards scholarships for participation in the summer performance activities in Boston.

The nonprofit Young Americans (YoungAmericans.org) organization, launched in 1992, operates its own college of performing arts in Corona, California, that fosters artistic, intellectual

Be open-minded enough not to label innovations in genres as junk; whatever kids are drawn to should be fine. ~Dayna Martin and personal growth for those working toward becoming performers or arts educators. Its International Music Outreach Tours have brought workshops to K through 12th grade students in nearly all 50 American states and 15 countries in Europe and Asia.

Starting Out

“Don’t force children to play music.

It’s better when they want to do it on their own. Having instruments around the house can make it easier,” suggests Dayna Martin, a life coach and author of Radical Unschooling: A Revolution Has Begun, near North Conway, New Hampshire. Learning music can also decrease math phobia, similar to the way in which children that love to cook and follow recipes learn math, she points out, because math and music are undeniably interconnected.

As part of a self-taught passion for medieval history, her 17-year-old son Devin is building a replica of a Vikingera log house on the family’s property and has made several stringed instruments steeped in the historical period using mathematical principles. “When children apply math to further their interest in music, it makes more sense to them than when it’s some problems in a workbook, and they pick it up

more readily, which instills a lifelong appreciation of mathematics as an essential tool,” she observes.

Jamie Blumenthal, a boardcertified music therapist and owner of Family Music Therapy Connection: North Bay Music Therapy Services (NorthBayMusicTherapy.com), in Santa Rosa, California, works predominantly with special needs children. “Autistic children love music, and playing wind instruments like flutes and whistles helps work the muscles around the mouth, assisting with speech development,” she says.

Singing, keyboards and percussion instruments are other tools she uses. “Many parents want their child to become accustomed to social settings.

Because their child loves music, they’ll often seek a group music forum,” notes Blumenthal.

Family Music Time (FamilyMusic Time.com), in Fort Myers, Florida, is one of 2,500 affiliated centers nationwide and in 40 countries that follows music CDs provided by Princeton, New Jersey-based Music Together (MusicTogether.com). Drumming and singing sessions with parents and children up to 5 years old help them gain a music appetite and early group music-making experience, according to Director LouAnne Dunfee. At her studio, local professional musicians also conduct private lessons in piano, guitar and trumpet for children ages 6 and up.

Children playing instruments can mean much more than just music to our ears.

Music was my refuge.

I could crawl into the space between the notes and curl my back to loneliness. ~Maya Angelou

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

Find us @: Natural Awakenings Magazine of West Michigan

Facebook is a registered trademark of Facebook, Inc.

Randy Kambic is a freelance writer and editor based in Estero, FL, and regular contributor to Natural Awakenings.

Instrumental Finds Here are some of the organizations that collect and provide musical instruments for youngsters.

Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation, MHOpus.org Hungry for Music, HungryForMusic.org Fender Music Foundation, FenderMusicFoundation.org Music for Minors Foundation, Music4Minors.org VH1 Save the Music Foundation, VH1SaveTheMusic.org

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September 2016

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“Dietary choices have environmental and ethical impacts,” agrees Michael Schwarz, founder of Hudson Valley Treeline Cheese, in Kingston, New York.

“The carbon and water footprints of conventional dairy products are also enormous.” His company’s vegan cheeses are basically cashews, probiotic cultures and salt. Unlike American’s 10 million dairy cows, cashews aren’t injected with growth hormones, don’t emit methane and produce no waste runoff to pollute waterways.

greenliving

Smarter Storage

WATER-WISE KITCHEN A Few Small Steps Can Make the Difference

by Avery Mack

T

he United Nations warns that water use is outpacing population growth two to one. At this rate, two-thirds of the world will face water stress by 2025, meaning fewer crops and jobs and higher food prices.

“Globally, 3 million people, mostly children, die each year due to waterrelated issues,” says Sister Dorothy Maxwell, of the Dominican Sisters of Blauvelt, in New York. “Water is a precious commodity. Every drop in supply should increase awareness.”

Smarter Shopping

For significant savings, use ingredients with a lower water footprint. “Be

Moment of Peace Reiki Meditation Guided Relaxation Acupressure 32

West Michigan Edition

conscientious about food purchases,” advises Gene Baur, president and co-founder of the nonprofit Farm Sanctuary, in Watkins Glen, New York, and Orland and Los Angeles, California.

“Choosing plant foods instead of animal products can make a huge difference.

Estimates show that one person switching to a vegan diet can save at least 1,000 gallons of water every day.”

Before landing on a plate, an eightounce steak will have necessitated 850 gallons of water, including growing and processing the animal’s food grain. The amount of water needed to produce a quarter-pound hamburger equals that of 30 average showers.

Claire Crowley B.S., M.M., ERYT-500

1324 Lake Dr. Suite 7 616-295-1861 ClairCrowley123@att.net Moment-of-Peace.com NaturalWestMichigan.com

The Natural Resources Defense Council reports that Americans annually discard more than 35 million tons of uneaten food that costs local governments $1.5 billion annually in clean up and landfill maintenance. Food waste contributes to climate change through the use of huge quantities of water, fertilizer, land and fuel to process, refrigerate and transport it. Plus, it emits methane gas as it decomposes. Reducing food waste can have a far-reaching impact.

Applying simple household tips will help minimize waste: Protect all meat, poultry and fish along with dairy products like yogurt, sour cream and cottage cheese from bacteria by storing them in the original packaging until used; seal any leftovers in airtight containers. Wrap hard cheese in foil or waxed paper after opening. Keep fruits and vegetables separate and don’t wash before refrigerating to forestall mold.

Activated oxygen, like that used in the small refrigerator appliance BerryBreeze, neutralizes bacteria and mold to keep stored foods fresh longer.

Smarter Cooking

Maxwell’s guidance for savvy water use includes: Don’t pre-rinse dishes. Run

the dishwasher only when full. Use less soap when washing up and make sure it’s biodegradable. Water-wise experts also offer these cooking tips.

Use a single pot of water to blanch several kinds of vegetables before freezing. Start with the lightest color and end with the darkest, especially odorous veggies like asparagus or Brussels sprouts.

“Unless it’s greasy, cooking and drinking water can be reused to nourish plants,” explains Diane MacEachern, founder and publisher of BigGreenPurse.com.

“I cool egg and veggie cooking water to pour on herbs and flowers.”

As whole potatoes simmer, set a steamer basket over them to cook other veggies and conserve water. Fewer pots mean less dishwashing, and leftover potato water adds extra flavor to homemade potato dinner rolls.

Cook shorter shapes of dry pasta in less water, first placing them in cold water and lowering the heat to a simmer once it hits a boil, also saving energy (Tinyurl.com/ColdWaterPastaMethod).

Directions for hard-boiled eggs call for enough cold water to cover before boiling, followed by the mandatory icewater bath, using goodly amounts of water and energy. Steam eggs instead; find instructions at Tinyurl.com/ BestHardCookedEggs. For a large quantity of eggs, try baking them (AltonBrown.com/baked-eggs).

Freezer jam contains more fruit, much less sugar and needs no water bath for canning jars; recipes are available online. Eat watermelon as is or in salads, compost the peel and pickle the rind using only one cup of water with minimal boiling time (Tinyurl. com/WatermelonRindPickling).

Rather than waste warm water to defrost frozen foods, simply move them overnight to the refrigerator. Composting is far more eco-wise than running a garbage disposal and sink water.

More than 70 percent of Earth’s surface is covered in water, but only .007 percent—like a single drop in a five-gallon bucket—is usable for hydrating its 6.8 billion people and all plants and animals.

We must be creative to protect that drop by kicking it up a notch in the kitchen.

Connect with the freelance writer via AveryMack@mindspring.com.

actionalert Fracking Water

Action Needed to Protect U.S. Drinking Water Supplies The dangerous practice of fracking (hydraulic fracturing), which combines volumes of toxic chemicals and fresh water to bore for natural gas, has spread to 21 states in the Northeast, Mid-Atlantic and Midwest, as well as Colorado, Texas and California. A particularly intensive drilling area is the Marcellus Shale region, a 600-mile-long bedrock layer up to a mile below the Earth’s surface that includes parts of New York, Pennsylvania, West Virginia and Ohio. Citizens in these and surrounding states are sounding alarms.

The PennEnvironment Research & Policy Center is on the battle’s front lines and their efforts can serve as a blueprint and inspiration in trying to curtail fracking and protect the health and safety of people and the planet. The nonprofit has taken issue with a U.S. Environmental Protection Agency draft study dated late last year that concluded fracking has no widespread impact on drinking water, demanding that the agency conduct further research. While Pennsylvania’s Department of the Environment tallied 271 cases of water contamination from fracking in 40 counties, the nonprofit Public Herald reports 2,309 overall fracking complaints for 17 of the counties, and concludes that water-related cases are repeatedly understated.

Recent research by Stanford University’s School of Earth, Energy & Environmental Sciences found, “Companies are fracking directly into shallow freshwater aquifers,” according to Professor of Earth System Science Robert Jackson. “In no [other] industry would you be allowed to inject chemicals into a source of drinking-quality water.”

PennEnvironment recently galvanized more than 1,000 state health experts’ demands to Governor Tom Wolf’s administration that include establishing a registry to report impacts from fracking and other natural gas activities; instituting special training for health professionals; removing exemptions for the fracking industry from environmental laws; and requiring that all fracking operations be at least one mile from schools and healthcare facilities.

“With every day of inaction, our elected leaders continue to subject their constituents to severe and widespread health impacts,” advises PennEnvironment fracking campaign organizer Allie DiTucci.

Maryland poses another looming battleground—it currently prohibits the practice and is drafting new fracking regulations as the gas industry knocks on its door. Meanwhile, communities around the country are voting to ban fracking from their districts.

Join local environmental and conservation organizations in protesting against fracking and lobbying local and state officials to regulate and ban it.

Primary sources: PennEnvironmentCenter.org, InsideClimate News Vikki Nestico R.Ac., Dipl. OM

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naturalpet

Happy Furry Home Tips for Keeping a Pet-Friendly Home Clean

by Sandra Murphy

H

ouseholds with multiple pets abound as families often opt for a mix of companion animals.

Currently, more than 70 million dogs, 75 million cats and 6 million birds are kept as pets in the U.S., according to a recent American Pet Products Association survey. While we cherish their affection, downsides include pet hair dust bunnies, scattered litter, spilled seeds and potty accidents. Cleaning up can be easier with training and planning.

“Living on the beach, it’s easy for the dog to bring sand indoors, so I taught him to shake it off,” says dog expert and trainer Amy Robinson, in Vero Beach, Florida. “I put water in a bottle and misted it lightly on his head, then gave the cue, ‘Shake,’ and shook my shoulders. He mimicked me and got rid of most of the sand. Brushing him with a towel got the rest.” Once the dog understands the cue, retire the water bottle.

“I have a Newfoundland/poodle, a great Pyrenees/poodle and a Labradoodle, so I keep old towels outside the door to wipe dirty feet,” says Kathleen Thometz, owner of Doodle Art & Design, in Western Springs, Illinois. “The Newfoundland can open the door, so I have to catch him before he tracks in muddy paw prints.”

34

West Michigan Edition

Thometz keeps their hairbrush with the towels. “I have them groomed regularly, but a quick brush after a walk means I don’t have to vacuum between weekly house cleanings,” she says.

“Short hair can be even harder to pick up,” reminds Ryan Riley, cofounder of BizBagz.com, in Los Angeles.

“We brush our 50- and 70-pound pit bull mixes outside after play time and they love it.”

“Carpets and pets are a challenging combination, especially when pets get older and accidents happen,” observes Amy Bell, an interior decorator at Red Chair Home Interiors, in Cary, North Carolina. “I recommend hard surface flooring, washable slipcovers for furniture and keeping lint brushes by the door.” All-natural, sustainably sourced area rugs or hall runners make it easier for dogs to get around on slick surfaces; be sure the backing can withstand wet accidents.

“I use a hair-attracting dry mop to pick up fur on hard floors. It takes me 10 minutes a day to do 2,400 square feet; otherwise, I’d have tumbleweeds of hair blowing around. I use a Quick Vac every two days on area rugs,” says Joan Fradella, a Florida Supreme

NaturalWestMichigan.com

Court-certified family mediator in Lantana, Florida. A basset mix, vizla/ Rhodesian ridgeback and boxer/Labrador all shed hair in her house. Fradella also uses a water-soaked microfiber cleaning cloth to remove what she calls sniggle art (dog nose prints) on sliding glass doors.

If a hairy cat balks at brushing, try a cat hair removal glove. Some are designed to massage and remove loose hair; others clean up furniture and fabrics.

Stick with washable cat or dog bedding and use a removable cover for more frequent laundering. Warming temperatures due to climate change are fostering a rise in flea populations worldwide. Food-grade (not pool-grade) diatomaceous earth sprinkled on a pet’s bedding or the pet itself is safe; the silky powder adversely affects only creatures with hard outer skeletons.

Some dogs grab a mouthful of food and join the family, trailing crumbs along the way. Instead, feed them in their crates where they feel at home, allowing 15 minutes to finish. For a dog that eats too fast and then sometimes vomits, use a puzzle-designed feeder so it has to work to get to the food.

Fradella uses food and water bowls with wide bottoms because they’re harder to overturn. Stainless steel, washed daily, is best. A waterproof mat with a raised lip helps contain mealtime spills. A static mat removes litter from a cat’s feet upon exiting the litter box.

“Dogs can be trained to put away their toys,” advises Robinson. Cats, not so much. Birds are messy, producing floating bits of feathers and scattered seed. A mesh seed catcher will capture most of it; a dry mop gathers up the rest.

Bell suggests randomly sprinkling about 15 drops of lavender essential oil on a new air filter before installing it for a fresh scent throughout the house, and regularly changing filters. Multiple pets may necessitate more frequent filter replacements, which also reduces dander and related allergy symptoms.

Simple routines and the right tools lead to a safe, healthy home. They also free us up from unnecessary chores to enjoy more time with our beloved pets.

Connect with freelance writer Sandra Murphy at StLouisFreelanceWriter@ mindspring.com.

Discovering Yoga

by Julie Reynolds

F

or avid yoga lovers or those curious about giving it a try, West Michigan has a variety of yoga options to choose from. Each yoga instructor and yoga studio can offer something a little different, and studios all have their own style.

Renew Mama Studio “provides a space where mothers can receive the strength and renewal they need to be the amazing caregivers that they are.

Renew Mama Studio provides a variety of classes, services and resources to both prenatal and postnatal mothers which focus on strengthening and nourishing your mind and body before and after childbirth,” according to their website. Wellness appointments in Chiropractic, massage, lactation and health coaching are available, too.

Located at 5161 Northland Drive in Grand Rapids. For more information visit RenewMamaStudio.com.

Expressions of Grace Yoga and Cascade Yoga share a website and

maintain two locations. Offerings include Thai bodywork and clinical Thai bodywork, energy therapy, Ayurvedic wellness, massage, private yoga sessions and Reiki services. Each studio hosts various classes and schedules.

Expressions of Grace is located at 5270 Northland Drive Northeast in Grand Rapids and Cascade Yoga is located at 5060 Cascade Road Southeast, Suite G in Grand Rapids. For more information about these studios, visit their website at EogAndCysYoga.com This unique studio not only has yoga, but also offers massage, dance and kung fu options. Joi Dupre, owner of Your

Inner Space Yoga and Healing Arts Studio, is an instructor and LMT

offering many types of massage. No dance experience is required for her Goddess Unleashed dance class - “just a willingness to be open to move and

explore your body, thoughts, emotions, heart, and soul through dance,” according to their website. AJ Tyink teaches a Kung Fu Fundamentals class.

Your Inner Space Yoga and Healing Arts Studio offers a chance to experience and learn something a little bit different.

Located at 451 Columbia Avenue in Holland. Visit YourInnerSpace.net for additional information.

On The Path Yoga is a little bit of wonderful tucked right downtown Spring Lake. “Our goal is to promote the ongoing physical, intellectual, and spiritual growth of our clients and staff,” according to their website.

Here practitioners will find the only yoga rope wall in West Michigan and a studio that provides an assortment of blankets, straps and blocks. Classes are available for adults, a Zoo Zen Yoga class for kids, a runners’ workshop, partner yoga and more. Located at 701 E Savage St, Spring Lake. Visit their website at OnThePathYoga.com Currently located in the vibrant East Hills neighborhood, The Yoga Studio is Grand Rapids’ first yoga establishment. Since 1979 it has served the area with skills and yoga techniques to last a lifetime. A variety of classes are offered here for different age groups and levels. Class offerings and descriptions are listed on their website.

The Yoga Studio also offers special events which are subject to change.

For more information visit their website at GRYoga.com or stop by the studio located at 959 Lake Drive Southeast, Suite 206 in Grand Rapids.

Peacelab Yoga This studio “strives

to offer the highest quality yoga programs in a serious, yet playful environment.” Various pricing and membership options are available as well as a drop-in rate. A full schedule is listed on the website of the times for

the different class options. A variety of special events are also posted online including: a 4-week mindlab and meditation workshop in September, a 90-minute yoga 101 class in September, a restorative workshop in October and a 4-week workshop for athletes in November. Staff information, a blog, photos and videos are all available on their website.

Located at 5570 Wilson Avenue, Suite M in Grandville. Visit PeacelabYoga. com for more details on this fabulous studio and all it has to offer.

Hearts Journey Wellness offers

counseling services, yoga classes, workshops and yoga therapy. “Through counseling and yoga, we aspire to help you connect the mind and body in a way that enhances your sense of wellbeing on a daily basis,” according to their website. Workshops here include topics such as: managing moods, grief and loss, addictions, chronic pain, heart disease and more. Dr. Sue Dilsworth is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist who offers her services here, as well, and tailors them to meet the needs of each individual. Located at 6189 Lake Michigan Drive in Allendale. Visit HeartsJourneyWellness.com to learn more about all they have to offer.

From The Heart Yoga and Tai Chi Center provides “an atmosphere

of serenity and support in which to cultivate health, well-being and to focus on the inner self.” Teacher training is also an option here with full descriptions online. Various pricing packages are available including: memberships, drop-in rates, private instruction, short-term and longerterm sessions. Several teachers with a wide range of life experiences and expertise in the field are here to support and enhance the patrons experience.

Located at 714 Wealthy Street Southeast in Grand Rapids. Registration and additional information is available on their website describing the yoga and tai chi offerings as well as special events. Visit FromTheHeartYoga.com

Lakeshore Yoga Center is for those who live along the lakeshore.

This studio is open seven days a week to accommodate almost everyone’s

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September 2016

35

schedule. Memberships, new member specials, promotions, walk-ins, private sessions and private yoga parties are all available here. For those new to the yoga experience, the website has a page explaining what it is all about and what benefits can come from practicing yoga. So many different types of yoga can be found here including: candlelight yoga, chair yoga, family yoga, gentle stretch, bliss yoga, aerial yoga and more. The first step is exploring the website and discovering which one to start with. Located at 235 Fulton Street, Suite 200A in Grand Haven. Visit LakeshoreYoga.com today.

For those who living outside of Grand Rapids, there is another option in the quaint town of Montague. White River Yoga offers Hatha and Vinyasa yoga as well as Tai Chi and massage.

Seasonal fitness classes are offered, and details of those and other special events are posted on their website.

This small-town yoga studio offers a large variety with its instructors and levels of experience and skill. Mitch Coleman, owner of White River Yoga, has practiced yoga for over 25 years and has taught since 2005. Visit their website for more information about yoga, how it helps and to see what to bring to class. Located at 8724 Ferry Street, Montaque. Visit WhiteRiverYoga.com

Bodhi Tree Yoga and Wellness Studio provides a variety of tools

for maintaining a healthy lifestyle including yoga practice, meditation, other forms of fitness, good nutrition, massage, Reiki and life-long learning.

Visitors here can enjoy a variety of yoga classes, relax with a facial using natural skincare products or choose a manicure or pedicure. Special workshops and events include yoga in the park, belly dancing and acupuncture at certain times throughout the year. Located at 208 West 18th Street in Holland. For more information visit their website at MiBodhiTree.com Julie Reynolds is a contributing writer and has a background in advertising, teaching, writing, real estate and owns an engraving business. She can be contacted at ReynJ36@gmail.com 36

West Michigan Edition

NaturalWestMichigan.com

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West Michigan Edition

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

ALL MONTH LONG

BVI School of Ayurveda Accepting Applications: Now through August 31. Ayurvedic Consultant Certificate Program. Webinar and On-Site Courses, one weekend a month. State Licensed. NAMA Member. The Sambodh Society, Inc. 6363 N. 24th St., Kalamazoo, MI 49004. Info and Catalog.

AyurvedaMichigan.org. 269.381.4946.

Total Control Classes — Various times. Need help preventing and managing bladder problems? Total Control can help! This unique exercise and education program for women runs for seven weeks and helps strengthen your pelvic floor, core and back plus behavioral tips for improved bladder control.

New classes begin in September. $49 with scholarships available. Mercy Health Lakes Village, 6401 Prairie St., Norton Shores. Info: Marla Miller 231727-7944 millermarla76@gmail.com 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. Info & Appointments: 616-202-6368.

New Client Gift – New Consultation Clients get a Welcome Gift worth over $300. Schedule a consultation with Dr. LeAnn Fritz, ND and you’re entitled to this welcome bag of products to get you started, absolutely FREE! Mention this ad to receive your gift. New Hope Health, 10373 Riverview Dr, Plainwell. Info: 269-204-6525.

We’ll keep you moving and grooving! Swing in for tips on staying balanced and energized through the dog days of Summer! Mon -Fri 9:30am-7:30pm, Sat 10am-5pm Vital Nutrition, 169 Marcell Dr NE, Rockford, 616-433-9333.

Back to School Special – Lauren Ramey, Holistic Esthetician, will be offering a 10% discount for College Students during the months of August and September. Please bring your college ID to qualify for the discount! Grand Rapids Natural Health, 638 Fulton St. SW. Grand Rapids. Info: info@ grnaturalhealth.com.

WEDNESDAY SEPTEMBER 7

Guided Meditation and Healing Circle – 7-8 pm.

Escape from stress and discover an inner world of calm, peace & joy through guided meditation, and energy healing from Healing in America-Trained Healers. $5 donation. Holistic Care Approach, 3368 Beltline Ct., NE, Grand Rapids. laurie@ healinginamerica-midwest.com 269-908-1016.

calendarofevents 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.

SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 10

Stress Reduction Clinic: an Introduction –10:30 am -12pm. Led by Dr. Ragini Pierce, this workshop is a sampler of mind-body methods, practices, and techniques to be presented in an expanded upcoming series of classes. Learn to help yourself overcome the daily health-challenging effects of stress. $5.00.

Must pre-register. Angel Touch Family Chiropractic, 4265 Grand Haven Rd., Muskegon. Info: 231-6700179 or angeltouchdoc@yahoo.com for details.

Your Healing Gift: An Introduction to Energy Therapy – 1-4:30 pm. This introductory class will teach you about energy therapy tools that can invoke remarkable changes in your life. CE’s for nurses & massage therapists. Taught by licensed trainer Laurie DeDecker, RN, MHIA. $45. Holistic Care Approach, 3368 Beltline Ct. NE, Grand Rapids.

Info: laurie@healinginamerica-midwest.com or 269-908-1016 Sing Song Yoga for Kids – Noon-12:30 for ages 2-6, 12:45-1:30 for ages 6-11.Introduce your children to the joys of yoga in an age-appropriate class full of music, movement and merriment! Ages 2-6: $6 first child, $3 each additional sibling. Ages 6-11: $8 first child, $4 each additional sibling. The Yoga Studio, 959 Lake Dr. SE, Ste. 206, Grand Rapids. Info and register: On-line at GRYoga.com or 616-776-0836.

Community Qquiet Day & Labyrinth Walk – 10am-3pm. Wherever you are on your journey, come and experience the beauty & peace that comes with meditation & silence. Welcoming those of all faiths.

Come & go or spend the day. Donations only. St. Paul’s Episcopal Church 1006 Third St. Muskegon.

Info: 231-744-0377.

SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 11

Spiritual Wisdom on Inner Guidance – 10-11am.

Second Sunday each month. Free. Eckankar, Dominican Center at Marywood, Room 4, 2025 E Fulton, Grand Rapids. Info: ECK-MI.org or 756debokeefe@gmail.com or 269-370-7170.

MONDAY SEPTEMBER 12

Annual Anniversary Open House Burcon Chiropractic – 2-7pm. Located at 3501 Lake Eastbrook Blvd NE, Suite 252, Grand Rapids. Info: 616-5759990 or BurconChiropractic.com.

Writing Workshop – 6-8pm. Get tools and support to discover the stories you carry. All experience levels are welcomed in this 4¬-week series, led by a Certified Leader of the Amherst Writers & Artists Method. An energizing and supportive approach to writing. Cost $125. Voice & Vessel, 2922 Fuller Ave NE, Suite 112, Grand Rapids. Info and Register: VoiceandVessel.com, emily@voiceandvessel.com, 616-350-6210.

THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 15

Kent County Parks Foundation “Something’s Grilling Gala”— The latest addition to Millennium Park, “The Meadows” will be the location for the seventh Something’s Grilling Gala to benefit the Kent County Parks Foundation and Millennium Park. Tickets can be purchased on the Kent County Parks Foundation website: KCPF.org. For more information contact Kate Meyer at kate.meyer@ kentcountyparksfoundation.org or (616) 458-2080.

FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 16

200 Hour Teacher Training Class – Fridays 5pm10pm and Saturdays 7am-6pm with a lunch break Hillaire Lockwood from Hilltop Yoga in Lansing will conduct the class. This course will be held September 16- November 12 and consists of 9 consecutive weekends of training: Bodhi Tree Yoga and Wellness Studio, 208 W 18th St, Holland. Info: MiBodhiTree.com.

Planting Peace with Will Tuttle: Words and music for a New World!—7pm. Join us for an evening of original music and a lecture on Dr. Tuttle’s acclaimed best-seller, The World Peace Diet. Tickets $10. Spirit Space, 3493 Blue Star Hwy in Saugatuck. Info: 616886-2716, or thespiritspace@gmail.com.

SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 17

Run 10 Feed 10 Race – 8am start. Run 10 Feed 10 began in 2012 with the “hope of raising money and awareness for the dire hunger problem in America.”

The concept is simple: sign up for a 10k race and feed 10 people in your own town. Can’t run? Walkers are encouraged. Not in town on September 17 but want to help? Registrants sign up using their zip code and their registration fees are used to feed people within local community. EcoTrek Fitness, Mill Point Park at the end of School Street, Spring Lake. Info and registration: http://tinyurl.com/ ECOTREK10.

Restorative Yoga infused with Sacred Sound & Reiki. 1-3pm. Combines tension-releasing Yoga poses, healing and balancing Sacred Sound, with cleansing Reiki for renewal of body, heart, and mind.

With Diana Wilson, eRYT, Reiki Masters Pastor and Casey Brian, Donation $35. Healing Ways. Sambodh Center, 6363 N. 24th St., Kalamazoo. Info: Sambodh.us, SambodhSociety@SambodhSociety. us, 269-221-1961.

SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 18

Grand Rapids Veg Fest – 10am. Join us with over 70 exhibitors, informative speakers, cooking demonstrations and food trucks. Register for our newsletter to stay up on all the fun events we have planned throughout the summer and fall. Deltaplex Arena, 2500 Turner Ave NW, Grand Rapids. Info: GRVegFest.com.

natural awakenings

September 2016

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Inspire! – 1 pm. Open house, picnic, and games sponsored by Extended Grace to kick off the new season of Inspire! Everyone invited. Extended Grace is a social justice/human rights agency that seeks to build community while solving problems. Free.

Extended Grace, 17290 Roosevelt Rd, Ferrysburg (Ridge St. entrance). Info: lindabengston@att.net, 616-842-8703.

Town Hall meeting on mental illness and criminal justice – 6:30 pm. Continuing discussion of mental illness issues, especially as they intersect with the criminal justice system. Free. Extended Grace, Grand Haven Community Center. Info: lindabengston@att.net, 616-842-8703.

Inspire! –1 pm. Events address issues of social justice and human rights with the goal of determining actions that individuals can take. Inspire! is an expression of Extended Grace, a social justice/human rights agency that seeks to build community while solving problems. Free. Extended Grace, 17290 Roosevelt Rd, Ferrysburg (Ridge St. entrance) Info: lindabengston@att.net, 616-842-8703.

Mark Kahny Trio in concert – 6:30-8:30pm.

Mark is a remarkable pianist and vocalist, and recognized as 2012 Jazz Musician of the Year for West Michigan. His trio will be performing a mix of Traditional, Jazz, and Cabaret Music. Cost $20.

Unity Center for Spiritual Growth, 6025 Ada Dr. SE Ada. Info and Tickets: Unity.org, or at the door, office@unitycsg.org.

Writing Circle –10am-12pm. Looking for a space that will help you pause and set creative intentions?

Join us for a reflective writing circle. Includes readings, writing prompts, and creative practices to connect with your voice and stories. All experience levels are welcomed. Cost $10. Voice & Vessel, 2922 Fuller Ave NE, Suite 112; Grand Rapids.

Info and Register: VoiceandVessel.com, emily@ voiceandvessel.com, 616-350-6210.

FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 23

Ayurvedic Consultations – 8:30am-7pm. Ayurvedic Consultations with Ayurvedic Practitioner, Bill Courson, BVSA. 8:30am – 7:00pm. BVI Ayurveda,

The Sambodh Society, Inc. Event location: Sambodh Center, 6363 N. 24th St. Kalamazoo. Info: 269-3814946 or AyurvedaMichigan.org

SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 24

Stress Reduction Clinic: an Introduction –10:30am-12:00pm. Led by Dr. Ragini Pierce, this workshop is a sampler of mind-body methods, practices, and techniques to be presented in an expanded upcoming series of classes. Learn to help yourself overcome the daily health-challenging effects of stress. $5.00. Must pre-register. Angel Touch Family Chiropractic, 4265 Grand Haven Rd., Muskegon.

Info: 231-670-0179 or angeltouchdoc@yahoo.com Mindful Meditation Workshop - The Path to Peace –10am-4pm. Open up a world of healthy possibilities. Learn what is mindfulness, what is meditation & the many ways to meditate. How to create your own personal meditation practice, using meditation for healing and for evolving your life. $75. Spirit Space, 3493 Bluestar Highway, Saugatuck. Info: http://avoiceofreason.net/upcomingworkshops/ or call 616-886-2716, thespiritspace@gmail.com.

MONDAY SEPTEMBER 26

Ama-Deus Among Us – Last Monday of each month. Alternates between 1-3pm and 6-8pm.

Energy healing forum. 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. Info: Kim at kimgo@me.com

FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 30

What Old is New— Hsin is what they pay attention to in The Entire Concept. Robert T Hammer will be in Grand Rapids for a three day informational seminar discussing this concept September 30 - October 2. For additional information and to pre-register for this experiential seminar contact: Robert T Hammer of The Entire Concept at finetuning4u@gmail.com or call 206-551-3319.

savethedate Save The Date Events

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.

savethedate October 1

Grand Rapids Natural Health Open House – 2-6pm. Join us for the opening of our new expansion! Come visit and enjoy cocktails & appetizers while meeting our new staff members in our new space. Come & go as you please and take part in our raffles & giveaways. 638 Fulton St. SW. Info: info@grnaturalhealth.com.

savethedate October 10

S.A.I.L retreat – Captain Your Ship – 9am4pm. The S.A.I.L retreat is geared towards realtors and business professionals to empower Successful, Authentic & Innovative Leadership to empower from the inside out. Intentional teaching, reflective activities, soulful networking and lunch provided with full day registration. $111 includes lunch and activities. Oasis Retreats & Workshops, Thousand Oaks Country Club, Grand Rapids. Info & Register: LUXCHIX. com/sail or call 616-430-4366.

savethedate October 16

Jami Lula in concert!— 6:30-8:30pm. Jami Lula’s music is more than a shiver-inducing experience in sound, it is an inspiration itself.

He exudes his personal intensity, his love of life and of humanity. $20. Unity Center for Spiritual Growth, 6025 Ada Dr. SE, Ada. Info & Tickets: Unitycsg.org, or at the door, office@unitycsg.org

savethedate November 11

Experiential Reclamation Therapy for Men — 8:30am-4:30pm. A conference for therapists and others who work with men. Explore an effective, innovative, and integrated approach to Men’s Wellness, Recovery, Emotional and Relational Health. Presented by The Men’s Resource Center of West Michigan and Body and Soul Grand Rapids. Event address: 2025 Fulton St E, Grand Rapids. Info: visit menscenter.org/conference

savethedate November 12

Annual Meniere’s Symposium – Burcon Chiropractic. 3501 Lake Eastbrook Blvd NE, Grand Rapids. Info: 616-575-9990 or BurconChiropractic.com.

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West Michigan Edition

NaturalWestMichigan.com

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

sunday

tuesday

Spirit Space Sunday Worship – 10:30am. An interfaith, non-denominational gathering place for worship and spiritual enrichment. Join for inspiring messages called Reasoning’s. Spirit Space, 3493 Blue Star Hwy, Saugatuck. Info: 616-836-1555 or Spirit-Space.org.

Gentle Hatha Yoga – 7:45-9am & 9:15-10:30am.

With Mitch Coleman. Drop-ins welcome. White River Yoga Studio, 8724 Ferry St., Montague.

Info: 231-740-6662or WhiteRiverYoga.com.

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 – 9-10am $5.00 donation goes towards the charity of the month. $5.

Bodhi tree Yoga & wellness Studio, 208 w 18th Street Holland. Info: call 616-392-7580 or go to MiBodhiTree .com Hot Yoga – 5-6:15pm. Sweat with this active, energetic, athletic style of yoga with traditional poses in a hot room. Not recommended for people with heart or lung conditions or those not engaged in regular exercise. $12 drop-in. Hearts Journey Wellness Center, 6189 Lake Michigan Dr, Allendale. Info:HeartsJourneyWellness.com. or info@ HeartsJourneyWellness.com.

monday Chair Yoga Series – Sept 19th -Oct 10th from 10:30-11:30am for 4 weeks/$40. This class will incorporate movements and breathing exercises designed to assist with relaxation and increase mobility, balance, and strength. a chair and other props will be used to safely modify this yoga class for all fitness and mobility levels. This class is a gentle option for those who use a cane or walker, have limited mobility, or have recent injuries. $40 for 4 weeks. Bodhi Tree Yoga & Wellness Studio, 208 W 18th Street, Holland. Info: call 616-3927580 or go to MiBodhitree.com.

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.

Gentle Yoga – 5-6pm. New to yoga? This is a great class for you! Even if you’re not a beginner, this is a wonderful refresher practice to fine tune your alignment and form. First Class $5. Your Inner Space, 451 Columbia Ave, Holland. Info: 616-994-8087 or JoiDupre@YourInnerSpace.net or YourInnerSpace.net Vinyasa Yoga – 7-8:15pm. $12 drop-in. Hearts Journey Wellness Center, 6189 Lake Michigan Dr, Allendale. Info: visit us at HeartsJourneyWellness.com or info@heartsjourneywellness.com

Beginning Yoga – 9:30-10:45am. This class will introduce you to basic postures, breathing techniques, and mindfulness with an emphasis on building body awareness. Gentle yet relaxing in nature, you will leave feeling relaxed, rejuvenated and having a greater sense of health and well-being. $12 drop-in. Hearts Journey Wellness Center, 6189 Lake Michigan Dr, Allendale. Info: visit us at HeartsJourneyWellness.com or info@ heartsjourneywellness.com Hot Yoga – 7-8:15pm. Sweat with this active, energetic, athletic style of yoga with traditional poses in a hot room. Not recommended for people with heart or lung conditions or those not engaged in regular exercise. $12 drop-in. Hearts Journey Wellness Center, 6189 Lake Michigan Dr, Allendale. Info:HeartsJourneyWellness.com. or info@ HeartsJourneyWellness.com.

wednesday Chair Yoga – 10-11am. Chair yoga classes include movements and breathing exercises designed to encourage relaxation and increase mobility, balance and strength. $12 Drop in.

Hearts Journey Wellness Center, 6189 Lake Michigan Dr, Allendale. 616-307-1617. Info: HeartsJourneyWellness.com.

Beginning Yoga – 6:15-7:30pm. This class will introduce you to basic postures, breathing techniques, and mindfulness with an emphasis on building body awareness. Gentle yet relaxing in nature, you will leave feeling relaxed, rejuvenated and having a greater sense of health and well-being. $12 drop-in. Hearts Journey Wellness Center, 6189 Lake Michigan Dr, Allendale. Info: visit us at HeartsJourneyWellness.com or info@ heartsjourneywellness.com $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. 616365-9176. IntegrativeNutritionalTherapies.com.

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.

Goddess Unleashed: Awaken Your Divine Feminine through Dance. – 6-7pm. No dance experience is required, just a willingness to be open to move and explore your body, thoughts, emotions, heart, and soul through dance. First Class $5. Your Inner Space, 451 Columbia Ave, Holland. Info: Joi Dupre, 616-994-8087 or YourInnerSpace.net

Thursday Yoga to the CORE – 5:30-6:30pm. Focusing on the core will bring strength and freedom to your asana practice as well as your everyday activities. Get ready to feel the burn! Your Inner Space. 451 Columbia Ave, Holland. Info: 616994-8087 or JoiDupre@YourInnerSpace.net or YourInnerSpace.net Advanced Beginning Yoga – 9:30-1045am. $12 drop-in. Hearts Journey Wellness Center, 6189 Lake Michigan Dr, Allendale. Info: visit us at HeartsJourneyWellness.com or info@ heartsjourneywellness.com Hot Yoga – 5:30-6:45pm & 7:00-8:15pm. Sweat with this active, energetic, athletic style of yoga with traditional poses in a hot room. Not recommended for people with heart or lung conditions or those not engaged in regular exercise. $12 drop-in.

Hearts Journey Wellness Center, 6189 Lake Michigan Dr, Allendale. Info:HeartsJourneyWellness. com. or info@HeartsJourneyWellness.com.

Alignment-Based Yoga Class in Prospect Park – 7-8pm. Meet on E 22nd Street side. Free.

Holland. Contact: Joi Dupre, 616-994-8087 or YourInnerSpace.net

saturday Beginning Yoga – 8:30-9:45am. This class will introduce you to basic postures, breathing techniques, and mindfulness with an emphasis on building body awareness. Gentle yet relaxing in nature, you will leave feeling relaxed, rejuvenated and having a greater sense of health and well-being. $12 drop-in. Hearts Journey Wellness Center, 6189 Lake Michigan Dr, Allendale. Info: visit us at HeartsJourneyWellness.com or info@ heartsjourneywellness.com Hot Yoga – 10:15-11:30am. Sweat with this active, energetic, athletic style of yoga with traditional poses in a hot room. Not recommended for people with heart or lung conditions or those not engaged in regular exercise. $12 drop-in. Hearts Journey Wellness Center, 6189 Lake Michigan Dr, Allendale. Info:HeartsJourneyWellness.com. or info@HeartsJourneyWellness.com.

Gentle Hatha Yoga – 9-10:15am & 10:3011:45am. With Mitch Coleman. Drop-ins welcome.

White River Yoga Studio, 8724 Ferry St., Montague. 231-740-6662. Info: WhiteRiverYoga.com.

Sweetwater Local Foods Market – 9am-1pm.

A double-up bucks and bridge card market.

Hackley Health at the Lakes building on Harvey St. Located inside during inclement weather.

Muskegon. 231-861-2234.

natural awakenings

September 2016

43

A V OYA G E TO W E L L - B E I NG Book by Oct. 24TH for Best Rates & Availability

MARCH 11 - 18, 2017

Join our 14th annual Holistic Holiday at Sea cruise for 7 nights on the luxurious MSC Divina, one of the most ecologically-friendly and elegant cruise liners on the seas. Bask in gracious Italian hospitality and service all while enjoying inspiring lectures and vegan natural foods prepared by our own chefs. Departing from Miami, FL and sailing to lush Ocho Rios, Jamaica; historic Georgetown, Cayman Islands; sunny Cozumel, Mexico; & the paradise of Nassau, Bahamas. Learn more about the classes, cuisine and itinerary at holisticholidayatsea.com.

Chosen by National Geographic Traveler as

ONE OF THE 1 00 BEST WORLDWIDE VACATIONS TO ENRICH YOUR LIFE

FEATURING WORLD-RENOWNED CHEFS, TEACHERS & HEALERS Co-author of The China Study and author of Whole: Rethinking the Science of Nutrition; featured in the film Forks Over Knives

T. COLIN CAMPBELL, PH.D.

Physician, author, & internationally-recognized speaker on nutrition; founded NutritionFacts.org; spoke at Congress, on Dr. Oz, & the Colbert Report

MICHAEL GREGER, M.D. Hailed as “the conscience of the food movement” by TIME Magazine, Baur is co-founder & president of Farm Sanctuary, an activist, popular speaker & author

Best-selling author of Prevent and Reverse Heart Disease; starred in the film Forks Over Knives; featured on CNN’s special The Last Heart Attack

CALDWELL ESSELSTYN, JR. M.D.

GENE BAUR

FOOD OPTIONS FOR EVERYONE - VEGAN, GLUTEN-FREE, OIL-FREE AND SHIP’S MENU SWIM, SNORKEL AND KAYAK IN THE CRYSTAL WATERS OF THE CARIBBEAN AWARD-WINNING ENVIRONMENTALLY-FRIENDLY SHIP DAILY YOGA, MEDITATION, PILATES, QI GONG, DO-IN, RUNNING, FITNESS & BODY BUILDING CLASSES 45 TEACHERS • 145 LECTURES & WORKSHOPS 11 COOKING & BOOTCAMP CLASSES CEU & CME CREDITS AVAILABLE DANCING, SOCIALS & SINGLES EVENT VEGAN PIZZA & ICE CREAM PARTIES CANCER SUPPORT GROUP & RECOVERY PANEL PRIVATE CONSULTATIONS & TREATMENTS AVAILABLE 44

West Michigan Edition

NaturalWestMichigan.com

Founder of the Physicians Commitee for Responsible Medicine; author of Food for Life & Power Foods for the Brain; active health advocate

NEAL BARNARD, M.D. Emmy Award-winning author of seven bestselling cookbooks; host of the television show Christina Cooks; health educator for 25+ years

CHRISTINA PIRELLO

LEARN MORE holisticholidayatsea.com info@holisticholidayatsea.com 1-800-496-0989 (Toll Free US) 1-828-749-9537 Holistic Holiday at Sea holisticholidayatsea.com/blog

BOOK TODAY Lorraine Travel bookings@holisticholidayatsea.com

1-877-844-7977 (Toll Free US) 1-305-443-0542 Option 1 for program information Option 2 for travel agent All reservations for our holistic group must be made through Lorraine Travel

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 33.

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 32.

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 14.

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.

COSMETICS SERENDIPITE ORGANIQUES

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 616-481-8587 BeYoungth.com/partners/claravz Independent Sharing partner Keto OS (get your Ketones) TotalHealth4Today.pruvitnow.com ClaraVz@sbcglobal.net

Be Young Essential Oils are exclusive E.O.B.B.D. guaranteed 100% pure & safe for your entire family and pets!

Wondering what to use? Just call or email me, I’m here to educate you! Now offering Keto OS. Ketones flowing through your body within 60 minutes!

BODY BIZ, INC.

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).

Rick Hayhurst Wellness Services & Education 100 Blue Star Highway, Suite D, Douglas 269-568-5556 or 888-489-9660 Info@BodyBizInc.Biz • BodyBizInc.Biz Young Living essential oils are time tested, researched based formulas that support every aspect of living. As seen on the Today Show, essential oils impact all areas of being by enhancing a positive emotional state, bringing mental clarity, supporting physical wellness, home cleaners, skin care and promoting a deep spiritual awareness.

Income opportunities available! Member #: 3886397. See ad, page 2.

MOONDROP HERBALS, LLC

Cottage of Natural Elements 351 Cummings, NW Grand Rapids 616-735-1285 • MoondropHerbals.com

natural awakenings

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 22.

September 2016

45

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 27.

HAKOMI THERAPY KEN PORTER CST, CHT

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 79.

HEALTH EDUCATION CENTER THE WELLNESS FORUM

Pamela Gallina, MA CMC 616-433-6720 PamGallina@LIAConsulting.org LIAConsulting.org

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 40.

Pam works with highly – motivated individuals as they focus on their complex life agendas and aim for their very best life-work balance. This provides a powerful framework for building more effective relationships while maintaining a balanced and fulfilling personal life. See ad, page 31.

Barbara Zvirzdinis, WK, CMT 616-581-3885 ASenseOfFlow.com 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.

HOMEOPATHY BOB HUTTINGA PA-C

332 S. Lincoln Ave., Lakeview 989-352-6500 TheHealingCenterOfLakeview.com

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.

West Michigan Edition

LIA COACHING AND CONSULTING

Bob Huttinga PA-C & Rev. Barbara Huttinga 332 S. Lincoln Ave., Lakeview 989-352-6500 TheHealingCenterOfLakeview.com

A SENSE OF FLOW

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.See ad, page 7.

LIFE COACH

THE HEALING CENTER

HOLISTIC HEALTH

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

46

HEALTH / WELLNESS CENTER

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 40.

NaturalWestMichigan.com

MASSAGE THERAPY BODY BIZ, INC.

Rick Hayhurst Wellness Services & Education 100 Blue Star Highway, Suite D, Douglas 269-568-5556 or 888-489-9660 Info@BodyBizInc.Biz • BodyBizInc.Biz Welcome to Community Massage at Body Biz, Inc. The Massage School in Douglas, Michigan, where students gift their time to raise money for our Scholarship Fund. Your $40 donation is used for tuition assistance. Your donation at work means future jobs for students who, with your help, can improve personal circumstance through short-term training for a long-term career!

For your donation, you’ll receive a 55 Minute Student Massage Therapy Session for stress management and/or to reduce soft tissue pain and dysfunction. See ad, page 2.

BODY BIZ, INC.

Rick Hayhurst Wellness Services & Education 100 Blue Star Highway, Suite D, Douglas 269-568-5556 or 888-489-9660 Info@BodyBizInc.Biz • BodyBizInc.Biz As a Clinical Massage Therapist with 25 years of training and experience, Rick Hayhurst supports patients back to health from a whole person perspective.

Through following conversational and visual cues, each session is a unique journey of discovery inviting underlying traumas to be revealed. Sessions are about creating positive change, or healing, and may include any or all of the following tools: traditional massage and bodywork, guided imagery, wellness and energy coaching, quietude, breath work, work with colors, and specific vibrational frequencies or energies. See ad, page 2.

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 14.

MEDITATION/ENERGY WORK BODY BIZ, INC.

Rick Hayhurst Wellness Services & Education 100 Blue Star Highway, Suite D, Douglas 269-568-5556 or 888-489-9660 Info@BodyBizInc.Biz • BodyBizInc.Biz Meditation is an opportunity to receive energy, or vibratory frequencies, that can support you in your daily life. If you’re managing stress, pain, or the various demands of life, meditation can support you by bringing in the energies needed to nurture and nourish each aspect.

As we meditate, together we’ll balance our bodies, clear unneeded and unwanted energies and traumas and then go on a journey to receive the desired vibratory frequencies. See ad, page 2.

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 32.

BVI SCHOOL OF AYURVEDA

MIDWIFERY

Ruth Small, Ph.D., Director 269-381-4946 Ayurveda@SambodhSociety.us AyurvedaMichigan.org

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

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.).

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.

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.

SCHOOL / EDUCATION BODY BIZ, INC.

Rick Hayhurst Wellness Services & Education 100 Blue Star Highway, Suite D, Douglas 269-568-5556 or 888-489-9660 Info@BodyBizInc.Biz • BodyBizInc.Biz Remember those days at Summer Camp where you were with your friends all day long; where you had classes, but it didn’t feel like school; where you were enriched by experiences unique to camp; where you look back fondly on the memories? Massage School is very much like summer camp. New friends, new experiences, and new skills; all the while, discovering new parts of yourself! Flexible schedule and financial plans available! See ad, page 2.

THERMOGRAPHY ADVANCED THERMAL IMAGING OF WEST MICHIGAN Julie Bennett 616-724-6368 AdvancedThermalImagingllc.com

Thermography is a safe, tested, painless, and effective procedure providing information for breast cancer risk assessment, breast cancer prevention and early detection, possible hormone imbalance, thyroid dysfunction, diabetes, musculoskeletal inflammation, and neurological problems.

classifieds HELP WANTED MASSAGE THERAPIST - Must be licensed and very well experienced. $30/Hr. We provide everything including a gorgeous water view and hydraulic table that is handicap accessible. Must be able to work Mon, Wed, Fri afternoons and every other Saturday. Dr. Burcon will work closely with you on difficult cases in order learn the nuances of his patients. Must be able to perform deep tissue massage, and we have some calls for CranioSacral therapy. If you are knowledgeable in developing x-rays or have experience as a chiropractic assistant, the income is increased. We also have a generous bonus program. Burcon Chiropractic, 3501 Lake Eastbrook Blvd SE, Suite 252, Grand Rapids. Fax resume to 616-575-9995 or e-mail to DrBurcon@ yahoo.com. For more info: 616-575-9990 or BurconChiropractic.com

natural awakenings

September 2016

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SUFFERING VERTIGO?

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61 6. 57 5 . 9 990 Meniere’s Disease Research

Grand Rapids, MI

HEALTH TALK

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BurconChiropractic.com

Meniere’s Disease Symposium Presented by the World’s Leading Meniere’s Expert...

Dr. Michael T. Burcon, B.Ph., D.C.

Saturday, November 12, 2016

10:00 am - Noon: Presentation & Discussion; Conf. Room A, Suite 114 Noon - 1:00 pm: Lunch provided 1:00 pm - 5:00 pm: Grand Rounds; Doctor’s Office, Suite 252 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm: Doctor’s Dinner & Discussion

A Story of Survival!

Learn about important traditional & complementary alternatives to one-sided neurological problems like Meniere’s disease, Trigeminal neuralgia, Glossopharyngeal neuralgia, Bell’s palsy, Parkinson’s disease & migraines!

CAREGIVERS/STUDENTS: $25 • EXISTING PATIENTS: $50 NEW PATIENTS: $500 (Insurance Accepted) • DOCTORS: $500

Reserve Your Seat Today!

Phone Jane: (616) 575-9990 www.BurconChiropractic.com 48

West Michigan Edition

E-Mail: DrBurcon@yahoo.com

NaturalWestMichigan.com