Natural Awakenings Detroit - Dec 2015

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December 2015

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letterfrompublisher “Peace does not mean an absence of conflicts; differences will always be there. Peace means solving these differences through peaceful means; through dialogue, education, knowledge; and through humane ways.” ~ Dalai Lama XIV

contact us Wayne County, Michigan Edition Published by: Healthy Living Detroit, Inc. P. O. Box 4471 Center Line, MI 48015 Phone: 313-221-9674 Fax: 586-933-2557 Publisher Mary Anne Demo publisher@NaturalAwakeningsDetroit.com Editorial & Layout Team Kim Cerne Karen Hooper National Franchise Sales Anna Romano NaturalAwkeningsMag.com 239-530-1377 Customer Support Allison Roedell Stephanie Horvath

© 2015 by Natural Awakenings. All rights reserved. Although some parts of this publication July be reproduced and reprinted, we require that prior permission be obtained in writing.

Natural Awakenings is a free publication distributed locally and is supported by our advertisers. It is available in selected stores, health and education centers, healing centers, public libraries and wherever free publications are generally seen. Please call to find a location near you or if you would like copies placed at your business.

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Times of crisis seem to bring people together in a good way, supporting one another in need. It was good to see so much support for the people of France including people’s Facebook profile photos, updated with the red, white and blue of the French flag. It seems to be a reminder that despite all of our surface differences, we are all really the same and connected with each other worldwide. It’s unfortunate that we can’t focus more on our similarities and less on our differences.

World peace may seem like a goal that is well beyond our reach, but we can make a difference by striving to find peace within ourselves and sharing it with those around us. Take time to be gentle and compassionate with yourself; it can be the very best gift not only for yourself, but for those around you, too.

Yesterday a very dear family friend passed away. This gentleman was such a kind and loving person, someone who always had time for others. In both his personal life and in his career as an insurance agent, he brought an extra element of trust and caring that is sometimes quite rare. I am so blessed to have had the chance to know him and his family, and I hope that in my own way I can learn from his example.

As the end of 2015 draws to a close, be sure to take some time to reflect on the events of the year and begin to plan for 2016 and beyond, with hope and wonder of the new blessings that are surely headed your way. Ava Williams has a wonderful day long retreat scheduled in January, gathering together like-minded individuals to help share resources to empower one another.

If wedding vows are part of your future plans, be sure to check out the article ‘Creating a Dream Wedding’ by Valerie Meservey. She and husband Chris had a last minute change of venue for their wedding, and they were still able to dig deep and pull it all together for beautiful results. Even the weather cooperated that day - it stopped raining just long enough for them to get the outdoor ceremony of their dreams. Now Val offers her services as a ‘Day of Coordinator’ and uses her skills to help other couples get the chance to relax and enjoy their own special day.

Whatever big audacious goals are on the horizon for you, I hope you’ll go after them with a renewed spirit and purpose, and don’t forget to radiate loving kindness in all that you do, your own personal part of achieving world peace.

Cheers!

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contents 12 6 newsbriefs 12 healthbriefs 14 globalbriefs 16 ecotip 21 healthykids 24 naturalpet 14 26 healingways

28 greenliving 30 consciouseating 32 inspiration 34 fitbody 36 wisewords 16 38 calendar 41 classifieds 42 resourceguide

Natural Awakenings is your guide to a healthier, more balanced life. In each issue readers find cutting-edge information on natural health, nutrition, fitness, personal growth, green living, creative expression and the products and services that support a healthy lifestyle.

18 AWAKENING TO SPIRIT 18

Prayer and Meditation Heal and Free Us

by Richard Davenport

21 GENEROUS

PINT-SIZED GIVERS Teaching Kids How to Care and Share

by Jennifer Jacobson

24 EAT, BARK AND

BE MERRY

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Healthy Holiday Treats for Our Pets

by Sandra Murphy

26 HEAVENLY SCENTS advertising & submissions HOW TO ADVERTISE To advertise with Natural Awakenings or request a media kit, please contact us at 586-943-5785 or email Publisher@NaturalAwakeningsDetroit.com Deadline for ads: the 15th of the month.

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How to Make Your Own Natural Oil Fragrances

by Kathleen Barnes

28 CREATING A DREAM WEDDING

by Valerie Meservey

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30 SWEETLY VEGAN No-Bake Holiday Treats Worth Celebrating

by Judith Fertig

34 AIRPLANE YOGA Six Easy Stretches Ease the Journey

by Cynthia Bowman

36 SHARON SALZBERG ON MINDFULNESS Simple Ways to Be in the Present Moment

by April Thompson

NaturalAwakeningsDetroit.com natural awakenings

December 2015

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newsbriefs Calling All Bridal Couples & Wedding Vendors

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ackard Proving Grounds Historic Site (PPG) is making history again. The second annual Wedding Show has been announced for March 20, 2016 and will showcases the latest products and services available to bridal couples, family and friends The show runs from 1 to 5 p.m., and “will have caterers, florists, photographers, wedding planners, bakers, rental specialists, clothing, and so much more, plus you get a chance to check-out this beautiful historic venue” states Mary Anne Demo, Event Coordinator at the site. “We also have a meet-and-greet with past bridal couples, which is a wonderful and unique opportunity to gain insight from couples who were recently married here” continues Demo.

“According to wedding trends, November and December are prime engagement months so this show will be especially beneficial to all the newly engaged folks” relays Demo and who also states they anticipate over 50 vendors.

“It’s almost like a date night with all the great food [samples] but one that is informative, too “say’s Judith Blakly who attended the 2015 show. “It was nice to see so many different types of products under one roof; we didn’t have to drive all around town to accomplish so much” mentions Blakly. The show makes creating a beautiful wedding easier, regardless of style, size or budget.

“A good selection of products and services is imperative. We hand select our vendors so there is a good selection but not an overwhelmingly excessive amount of any one genre. We encourage anyone interested in highlighting their wares to apply early so we can best discern which will be the best fit for our couples” stresses Demo.

The show also affords the opportunity to view some classic Packard vehicles which are also available for rental as a static display, or car & driver when having a wedding at the PPG.

The Packard Motor Car Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to the preservation of the products, history, and properties of The Packard Motor Car Company. The Foundation’s activities which support their goals, include fundraising, affiliations with museums, clubs and programs of education, and will place them in a position to seek out, identify and participate in the preservation of the legacy of all American automobile companies.

Location: 49965 Van Dyke Ave, Shelby Township. For more information, visit PackardEvents.org or for a vendor application, email MaryAnne@PackardEvents.org or call 586-943-5785.

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Advance Care Planning Workshop

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r Jacqueline Mohs of Beaumont Health will present a workshop 7 p.m., December 3 at Oakwood Commons in Dearborn. Seniors and other interested community members are invited to attend this one hour event. Dr. Mohs will address three important aspect of Advance Care Planning (ACP) including, ACP as a means of anticipating medical decisions that advanced illness that may require you to consider, ACP as a respectful conversation to guide others who might need to make decisions for you if you are incapacitate by injury or illness and ACP as a process designed to help you manage advance illness.

Helpful handouts will be provided

and the opportunity to ask questions will be available after the presentation.

“Options for managing advance illness have created a need for individuals to anticipate these options, to understand the likely outcomes of their choices and to consider the meaning of these anticipated outcomes in the context of their values,” said Dr. Mohs.

Dr. Mohs is certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine in Geriatric, Hospice and Palliative, and Internal Medicine. She is Associate Director of the Geriatric Fellowship for Beaumont Hospital In Dearborn.

Oakwood Common is a one and tow bedroom senior living apartment community with 29 acres that include extensive landscaping, nature trails and scenic views along the historic Rouge River Gateway.

Location: 16351 Rotunda, Dearborn.

OakwoodCommon.org. For more information and to RSVP, call 313-253-9597.

Seasonal Scents in the Air at Plymouth Shop

newsbriefs Plant Based Nutrition Support Group has New President

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utrition educator and best-selling author Kerrie Saunders, M.S., L.L.P., Ph D., has been named president of Plant Based Nutrition Support Group (PBNSG).

Dr. Saunders will oversee operations, funding, programming and marketing for the non-profit that supports those seeking to improve their health through a whole foods, plant-based diet.

An internationally known presenter and consultant, Dr. Saunders brings more than 25 years of health education leadership to PBNSG. She is best-selling

author of The Vegan Diet as Chronic Disease Prevention and a contributing author to Rethink Food: Over 100 Leading Doctors Can’t Be Wrong. Often featured on national, TV and in numerous publications, Dr. Saunders has served as a cancer and diabetes food demonstrator of the Washington DC- based Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine; as a leader of the Engine 2 Michigan Firefighter Challenge and, most recently, as director of education for RJL Systems, A psychologist and certified FLT health care practitioner, she holds a doctorate in natural health.

“With now decades of research demonstrating the superiority of plant-based diets for human health, the shift in public interest seems to have gone from the ‘why/ to the ‘how’,” says Dr. Saunders. “It’s inspiring to hear so many stories of better sleep, more energy, weight loss and the results so great in some instance that physicians have been able to reduce or eliminate medications. This integrated approach to health- choosing more whole plant foods and more activity- its true lifestyle medicine. I’m both honored and excited to join PBNSG in the important work they do to support people along that path.”

Founded in 2014 by former heart patient Paul Chatlin and cardiologist, Reader’s Digest columnist and best-selling author Joel Kahn, M.D., PBNSG is a Detroit area group of individuals dedicated to improving their health by following a whole foods, plant-based diet. PBNSG offers programs and resources for those interested in making lifestyle changes to help prevent or reverse chronic disease and achieve optimal health.

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hile Earth Lore in Plymouth receives shipments of new products almost daily, some are more seasonally significant than others. Think pine, think cinnamon, peppermint, bayberry or even a new line of handrolled incense by Fred Soll; which includes Frankincense and Myrrh. Pretty seasonable.

People often process or associate particular scents with a certain time in their lives or with a particular season; symbolic of that season. In addition to being familiar or smelling good, “Scents can have positive effects on mood, stress reduction, sleep enhancement , self-confidence, and physical and cognitive performance” according to Theresa Molnar, executive director of the Sense of Smell Institute.

Candles often make a great sweetscented gift and Earth Lore also carries wide variety of these, too. Reiki-charged candles are another good gift choice.

Sets of essential oils are a favorite because of their many uses; add a few drops to create room and linen sprays, potpourri, customized perfume and the list marches on…

Additional products crafted around the world include large selections of jewelry, statuary, crystals, herbals and cards; “a spiritual oasis in an everyday World”. Earth Lore has been offering Michigan’s widest variety of multicultural, spiritual and usual gifts since 1997 and is a place where every item is selected with care and is positively-intentioned merchandise.

Location: 895 Wing Street, Plymouth.

For more information, visit EarthLore. com. 734-354-1877.

For more information and for events, visit PBNSG.org.

PBNSG’s next event , An Evening with Dr. Michael Greger, will be from 6:30-8:30 p.m., December 15 at Groves High School, 20500 W Thirteen Mile, Birmingham.

Pre register; $15 PBNSG.org. $20 at the door. natural awakenings

December 2015

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newsbriefs Song of the Morning offers End of Year Opportunities

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he yoga retreat, Song of the Morning, in the northern Michigan town of Vanderbilt has several events scheduled between now and the beginning of January. The varied opportunities allow for immersion in the simplicity, serenity and sustenance of a balanced yogic lifestyle. They offer a place of spiritual refreshment and relaxation to those on a conscious spiritual journey toward union with the Divine, to hose hoping to discover their own highest potential and to all who seek respite from the worries and care of the world.

Six Hour Christmas Meditation “Honor the sacred spirit of the Christmas season by dedicating a day to sitting in deep meditation with like-minded seekers. This special service incorporates scriptural readings, including the writings of Paramahansa Yogananda, and sacred chants that will take you into the silence within. Come to be guided into recognition of what the true meaning of this season is and what the birth of Christ consciousness into this world means for you. Stay for all six hours or come and go on the hour. Join us afterwards for a delicious vegetarian meal! (Standard meal rates apply.) Free of charge” Winter Solstice Celebration “Join our community during the shortest day of the year. This sacred day provides an opportunity for us to reflect on our shadows, while together we create a space of acceptance and unconditional love. Begin the day with our six-hour meditation where you can stay for any length of time that you choose. Following will be activities that include hatha yoga and devotional music. These activities will culminate in an evening Solstice Fire Ceremony, where stories will be told that bring us to a place of reflection and remembrance of the growing daylight that is ahead. Together we will symbolically burn that which we need to let go of, entering into the coming months reconnected to the Light within that connects us all.

Schedule 10:00 to 4:00 - Six Hour Christmas Meditation (come and leave on the hour) 4:00 to 5:00 - Gentle Hatha Yoga 5:00 to 6:00 - Dinner 8:00 - Song of the Morning Meditation 9:00 - Solstice Fire Ceremony in the Tipi (blankets and a warm fire provided!) followed by hot drinks in the Mainhouse.

Free of Charge, donations graciously accepted “

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Christmas Service & Progressive

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his much anticipated holiday gathering may be one of the most unique Christmas celebrations you’ve ever experienced and we warmly welcome the greater Song of the Morning community to join!

The day begins with the Christmas Meditation Service at 11:00am in the Lodge, which includes chants and readings from Paramahansa Yogananda.

Following the service is our Progressive Christmas Dinner, which takes everyone on a journey through the homes of our Clear Light Community! Each community member opens up their home for a course of the meal, typically beginning with fresh tossed salad and moving all the way to a spread of homemade desserts!”

Twelve Days of Christmas

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he 12 Days of Christmas at Song of the Morning is a holiday celebration with a whole new approach. Instead of the bustle and fast pace of the holidays, we welcome all to come experience the stillness and peace of Northern Michigan winter at The Ranch! We welcome individuals who need personal retreat who are looking for silence, solitude and stillness, as well as familys who want to truly enjoy the beauty

of simply being together. This 12 day celebration begins on Christmas Day and ends on January 5, Yogananda’s birthday.

To kick the festivities off, Christmas Day Service and Progressive dinner in the Clear Light Community followed by eleven more days of meditation, hatha yoga, beautiful natural surroundings, wonderful food and fellowship. Come for one day or all twelve! Activities are all free of charge but donations are welcomed! Keep an eye out

for special discounts for extended stays during this special time at Song of the Morning.

May include recorded talk of Paramahansa Yogananda or SRF minister.”

New Year’s Eve Celebration “Look no further for the all the fun you could ask for on New Year’s Eve by spending it with your Song of the Morning family and friends!

This special evening begins with our traditional 8PM evening meditation which is followed by a snack potluck and time to set up for our annual New Year’s Eve talent show. We have some traditional acts that always make their way into the line up, in combination with a healthy dose of spontaneity and improvisation. From moving poetry, heartfelt songs, musical collaborations, art displays and dance lessons...You never know what you’ll see or who you’ll see doing it, but you can always trust that this annual event will lighten your heart and uplift your spirit. We officially bring in the New Year by sitting together in the silence and stillness of meditation. We hope to see you there with an open heart, your favorite snack to pass and that ukulele you bought 10 years ago that’s been sitting in the closet!

and practice a variety of simple and profound exercises designed to move our hearts and minds. We will clear out the seasonal energy in order to open to what is to come. No experience is necessary, as these practices will meet everyone exactly where they are. For those deeper on the path, further levels of practice will also be incorporated. A personal note from David: “I especially want to reach out to those who need support, and who may not typically do such retreats, or may have never done

Fee: Donation Basis (As a non-profit, all donations help cover the cost of maintaining our facilities and keeping our doors open for all seekers on the path.)”

Letting Go, Arriving, Beginning Again: A New Year’s Retreat

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or many the holiday season, from Thanksgiving through Christmas, is a time of energy, excitement, family, food, gratitude, travel, and gifts. However, it is also a time of increased suicide rates, depression, financial stress, and being extremely busy. This can be an exhausting, difficult time: we remember those who are not with us anymore, and miss their presence; we may grow weary of all the pressure and hustle-bustle of preparation, travel, obligation, and expectation for being social, gift-buying, and “putting on airs” of acting happy and making small-talk.

This weekend we will walk away from that and into something greater. Together we will breathe, process, and let go, while finding our own way of celebrating the small things together. We’ll create a space to share, to feel, to listen, and prepare for the New Year together.

This is a nondenominational retreat, and will have the spiritual elements of various traditions of those who attend. We will journey through a series of basic practices to take you, step by step, into the heart of yourself and your needs in order to walk away renewed. We will share stories, journal, break down false programming, sit still, be with nature, journey together, create sound and music,

this before. It has come to my attention, through interactions with multitudes of people, that this time of transition is very challenging for many. For many, it takes courage to admit one’s need for support, and there should be no shame in this, only honoring and respect. The costs for this are flexible according to needs, with discounts, and scholarships available. I want to make this time available to those who have a need, and finances should not be a block. If you have resources and are willing to assist in scholarships for those in need, even the smallest gifts will be appreciated.

Fee: $111 (no one will be turned away for financial reasons).”

Golden Lotus, Inc., is a Michigan non-profit organization which own and operates Song of the Morning and was founded in 1970 by J. Oliver Black as a result of Black’s desire to carry out the wishes of his Guru, Paramahansa Yogananda, and to establish a yoga retreat where the timeless science of yoga could be taught as a full and practical way of life.

Location: 9607 Sturgeon Valley Rd E, Vanderbilt. For more information, visit SongOfTheMorning.org or email office@ songofthemorning.org. 989-983-4107.

natural awakenings

December 2015

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Transformative Personal & Professional Development Retreat

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nternational Speaker, Social Entrepreneur, Author and Philanthropist, Ava R.Williams is teaming up with PEI Consulting and a dynamic team of industry experts from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., January 16, to offer a transformative and empowering daylong, personal and professional development retreat at the Packard Proving Grounds Historic Site.

This expert led retreat will provide busy and high performing individuals with the information and resources necessary to maximize the success of their endeavors as well as engage them in focused techniques for rest and relaxation. The Transformative Personal and Professional Development Retreat (2016 P3 Retreat) is designed to empower participants to regain focus, reestablish control and reinvigorate essential areas of their personal and professional lives.

The location for this incomparable event is aweinspiring Packard Proving Grounds. Established in 1927 by The Packard Motor Car Company, this unique site is located on 14 acres, hosts multiple Albert Kahn designed buildings and is an integral part of Detroit’s automotive history. Additionally, the Packard Proving Grounds was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2000.

The 2016 P3 Winter Retreat program encompasses a full agenda of day-long opportunities including: Part 1 • •

•

•

Continental Welcome & Networking Breakfast Instructor Led Gentle Yoga Session (including simple chair and desk techniques) Professionally Led Breakthrough Session to help you overcome barriers and obstacles Interactive and Motivational Journey of DAILY RENEWAL: The ancient secret to renewing yourself, your world and your faith daily

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Part 2 •

•

•

•

Networking Lunch with Expert Panel Led Discussion LESSONS FROM THE BATTLEFIELD: The Do’s & Don’ts of Success Instructor Led Small Group Workshops ( topics include; grant writing, sponsorship, using technology and more) Information and resources to maximize your success Special Closing & Wrap Up Activities

Williams, PEI Consulting; the complete Retreat team of experts, look forward to providing the skills and encouragement to assist with making 2016 the year which turns hopes and dreams into reality.

Cost: Early Bird Price $179 until 12/31/15 Regular Price $199 (Breakfast, Lunch & Parking Included). Comfortable Attire.

Location: Packard Proving Grounds Historic Site, 49965 Van Dyke Ave, Shelby Twp. To register online or for more information, visit AvaRWilliams.com/Events or PEinternationalconsulting.com/ Events. 586-960-5283.

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healthbriefs

People Double Up on Calories After the Holidays

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espite the popularity of New Year’s resolutions, scientists have found that post-holiday food shopping decisions don’t necessarily reflect intentions to eat healthier or lose weight.

Scientists from Cornell University tracked resolutions and after-holiday food shopping habits of 207 families. They classified about 20,000 food products as either “healthy” or “less-healthy”.

Calories and dollars spent were also tracked.

Analysis of 37 weeks of activity that included the extended winter holiday period and into the new year found that additional food expenditures and calories began about a week prior to Thanksgiving and peaked during Christmas celebrations. Compared to the rest of the year, this increased shopping averaged just over $16 more a week, about $4 of which was spent on healthy foods.

Food expenditures then continued to increase after the holidays to about $25 more a week compared to the average—showing a 24 percent increase. However, $13 of this was spent on healthier foods.

Calorie levels also increased. “Total weekly per-serving calories increased by 440 during the holiday period relative to the baseline period, and nearly 91 percent of this increase was due to additional purchases of the more calorie-dense foods,” the researchers reported.

“Even more intriguing is that contrary to well-intentioned New Year’s resolutions, additional weekly per-serving calories purchased increased to 890 in the post-holiday period relative to the baseline, more than doubling the 440 calorie increase evident in the holiday season,” the researchers observed. Of this, 63 percent of the additional calories were from high-calorie foods.

Potatoes Don’t Pack on Pounds

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esearch from scientists at the University of California, Davis has mashed the notion that potatoes cause weight gain. The researchers tested 90 overweight people divided into three groups, with all of them eating five to seven servings of potatoes each week over a three-month period.

Two groups reduced their calorie intake by 500 calories per day, with one group eating low-glycemic index (GI) foods and the other group eating high-GI foods. The third group had no calorie restrictions. Despite the increased potato consumption during the study period, all three groups showed slight weight loss and reduced body mass index.

The researchers concluded, “Potato intake did not cause weight gain.”

Asbestos Found in Crayons and Children’s Toys

R

esearch from the Environmental Working Group’s Action Fund has determined that some popular children’s toys contain a chemical that previous research has linked to lung disease and lung cancers. The researchers tested 28 boxes of crayons and 21 crimethemed toys at the Scientific Analytical Institute in Greensboro, North Carolina. They found that four of the crayon brands and two of the crime-scene toys contained asbestos.

All of the asbestos-containing toys were manufactured in China. The products included the Disney Mickey Mouse Clubhouse and Nickelodeon Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle brands of crayons, the EduScience Deluxe Forensics Lab Kit and the Inside Intelligence Secret Spy Kit. The latter two brands contained asbestos within the fingerprint powders.

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, asbestos from all sources is responsible for up to 15,000 U.S. deaths each year.

12 Wayne County Edition

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Digital ‘Blue Light’ Reading Disrupts Sleep Rhythms

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ecent findings from Brigham and Women’s Hospital, in Boston, has determined that reading from a light-emitting tablet or computer before bedtime will disturb sleep and may change the circadian rhythms that govern the body’s clock.

The research, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, tested 12 people for two weeks.

On five nights during one week, the subjects read ebooks on an iPad for four hours before bedtime. Another week, they read from printed books for the same duration.

During the five days of iPad reading, the participants fell asleep later and spent less time in rapid eye movement (REM)-stage sleep. The light-emitting tablet altered the circadian rhythm, changing the body’s natural sleeping pattern. The researchers also tested other blue-light emitting devices, including laptops, tablets, other eReaders, cell phones and LED monitors.

“We found the body’s natural circadian rhythms were interrupted by the shortwavelength enriched light, otherwise known as blue light, from these electronic devices,” says neuroscientist Anne-Marie Chang, Ph.D., one of the study authors.

Dr. Charles Czeisler, Ph.D., a leading sleep researcher, remarks, “In the past 50 years, there has been a decline in average sleep duration and quality. Since more people are choosing electronic devices for reading, communication and entertainment, particularly children and adolescents who already experience significant sleep loss, epidemiological research evaluating the long-term consequences of these devices on health and safety is urgently needed.”

Spirituality is Beneficial for Cancer Patients

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ccording to a new review of research published in the journal Cancer, a strong religious or spiritual belief system may improve a cancer patient’s prognosis physically, emotionally and mentally.

Researchers from Florida’s H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute and North Carolina’s Wake Forest School of Medicine reviewed clinical studies that included more than 44,000 cancer patients. The first review focused on physical symptoms and found that patients with stronger religious and spiritual beliefs reported fewer cancer symptoms and better physical health. They also showed enhanced capabilities in managing their daily lives.

“These relationships were particularly strong in patients that experienced greater emotional aspects of religion and spirituality, including a sense of meaning and purpose in life, as well as a connection to a source larger than oneself,” states Heather Jim, lead author of the first review.

The second review focused on mental health and found reductions in anxiety, depression and distress among those with greater spirituality. Lead author Dr. John Salsman comments, “Also, greater levels of spiritual distress and a sense of disconnectedness from God or a religious community were associated with greater psychological distress or poorer emotional well-being.”

In the third review, the researchers found that patients with a stronger spiritual well-being reported better social health, as well.

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

Fungus Among Us

Mushrooms Offer Pesticide-Free Insect Control Paul Stamets, one of the world’s leading mycologists, invented a fungus (mushroom)-based pesticide in 2006.

An industry executive states, “This patent represents the most disruptive technology we have ever witnessed.” This “smart” pesticide provides a safe and nearly permanent solution for controlling more than 200,000 species of insects.

Entomopathogenic (insect-destroying) fungi are altered so they don’t produce spores. This actually attracts the insects, which then eat them and turn into fungi from the inside-out. The invention has the potential to revolutionize the way humans grow crops.

Source: Earth. We Are One. View the patent at Tinyurl.com/FungusPesticidePatent.

Sentient Beings

New Zealand Enacts Bill Recognizing Animal Intelligence The New Zealand Animal Welfare Amendment Bill that passed into law this year states that animals, like humans, are sentient beings. Dr. Virginia Williams, chair of the National Animal Ethics Advisory Committee, says this acknowledges, “Animals can experience both positive and negative emotions, including pain and distress.” The bill thus bans the use of animals for testing cosmetics.

Williams says the legal recognition of animal sentience provides a stronger underpinning of the requirements of the existing Animal Welfare Act. The bill also provides for penalties to enable low-to-medium-level offenders to be punished more effectively and gives animal welfare inspectors the power to issue compliance notices, among other measures.

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Uncommon Devotion Religion in America Shows Resilience

On any given Sabbath, four of 10 Americans travel to a place of worship, a number that hasn’t fluctuated dramatically in the past half-century. Gallup polls report that more than 81 percent say they identify with a specific religion or denomination; 78 percent say it’s an important part of their lives; and 57 percent believe that religion is able to solve today’s problems.

While recent attendance may be off, Americans are no less likely to attend services today than they were in the 1940s and early ’50s, just prior to the ultra-religious following decade. The reason, says Gallup’s Frank Newport, is that U.S. religious worship is cyclical.

Today’s practicing religious communities “tend to consist of the seriously committed, not just those swept along by obligation,” reports Christian Smith, director of the Center for the Study of Religion and Society at the University of Notre Dame and coprincipal investigator of the National Study of Youth and Religion.

Those that worship regularly are more likely to be older, female and Southern; they also are better educated and stronger financially than those that don’t, according to Newport. At the same time, Mitchell Marcus, a University of Pennsylvania professor, characterizes his Ph.D. students as religiously curious, often devout and eager to talk about their beliefs.

Source: The Christian Science Monitor

14 Wayne County Edition

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Good Tithings

Greener Globe

World Powers Vow Cuts in Emissions This year’s G7 Summit of the U.S., UK, Canada, France, Germany, Italy and Japan, plus the European Union, has agreed in principle that the global economy must be completely fossil fuel-free by the end of this century to curb destructive climate change. To that end, the nations agreed to work toward cutting emissions between 40 and 70 percent by 2050.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel also announced that the G7 countries would raise $100 billion from public and private sources by 2020 to help poorer nations adapt. Environmental groups such as Greenpeace praised the action. In a statement, the Sierra Club called it “the first time that the leaders of the world have made clear with one voice that we must get off fossil fuels completely.”

Two hundred countries are expected to commit in writing to specific plans for greening their economies at the United Nations Climate Change Conference this month in Paris.

Source: TheHill.com

Post-It Progress

3M Requires Paper Sources to Meet Sustainable Standards A new sustainability policy by the 3M Corporation, maker of Post-it notes, has drawn support for its goal of making a minimal impact on forests, wildlife and human rights. 3M paper-based products and packaging require pulp and paper from sources around the world. Working in collaboration with ForestEthics and Greenpeace, the company launched a comprehensive review of all of its pulp and paper procurement expectations to ensure the materials are produced from sustainably logged timber.

3M will now hold paper and pulp suppliers accountable to one of the highest standards in the industry for environmental protection and respect of human rights, including tracing origins and obtaining consent of indigenous peoples and local communities before logging operations occur. The company intends to publish semiannual updates of its progress online.

Source: ForestEthics.org

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Lend a Hand to Causes While You Shop This holiday season, every gift purchased through GoodSearch.com can earn a donation of up to 30 percent of its value for a favorite charity, along with money-saving coupons for the customer. More than 2,500 national retailers are participating in the program, including Apple, Target, Toys “R” Us, Ralph Lauren, Macy’s, 1-800-Flowers, PetSmart and Expedia.

Instead of limiting qualifying purchases to a particular product and charity, the campaign includes nearly every product in the store. The donation goes to the charity or school of the shopper’s choice with the cooperation of the organization’s GoodShop, which has raised more than $9 million for charities ranging from The American Red Cross and ASPCA to local homeless shelters and schools.

Each Internet search through the website also earns the charity about a penny. With GoodDining, meals at more than 10,000 restaurants earn donations, with more than 100,000 charities and schools benefitting. UNICEF has used money from GoodSearch and GoodShop to provide clean drinking water to more than 200,000 children.

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globalbriefs Hear Ye!

Dutch Court Upholds Climate Action as a Human Right Perhaps establishing a new global precedent for a state’s obligation to its citizens in the face of a growing climate crisis, a Dutch court has ruled that the government has a legal duty to reduce carbon emissions by 25 percent by 2020. The decision came in response to a 2013 lawsuit launched by the Amsterdam-based environmental nonprofit Urgenda Foundation and 600 Dutch citizens that argued the government was violating international human rights law by failing to take sufficient measures to combat rising greenhouse gas emissions.

A statement from the court reads, “The state must do more to avert the imminent danger caused by climate change, also in view of its duty to provide care to protect and improve the

living environment.”

In the United States, the youth-led movement Our Children’s Trust (OurChildrens Trust.org) is suing state governments and what they dub “the ruling generation” as accountable for climate inaction. As 350. org co-founder and Communications Director Jamie Henn noted after the ruling, “If the Netherlands sets a precedent, it’s a whole new ball game.” Other countries are weighing the situation, as well.

Source: BBC

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White House Responds to Online Petitions

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President Obama has made it a priority to open a direct channel for people to be heard via online petitions. Jason Goldman, chief digital officer at the White House, says that his staff has responded to dozens of requests to take action on a variety of issues in recent

on Air: 248-557-3300 50

months. “We want to make sure those responses aren’t the final page, but rather the start of an ongoing conversation,” he says.

Change.org has chosen to integrate with the We the People platform, meaning the future signatures of its 100 million users will count toward the threshold of 100,000 for getting an official response from the administration.

“The process of hearing from us about your petition is going to look a little different,” says Goldman. “We’ve assembled a team of people responsible for taking your questions and requests and bringing them to the right people, whether within the White House or in an agency within the administration that may be in a position to say something about your request.”

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AWAKENING TO SPIRIT Prayer and Meditation Heal and Free Us

by Richard Davenport

By its intimate connection with divine love, Spirit infuses human experience with qualities of amazing grace—unexpected clarity, vision, wisdom, peace, compassion, emotional release, inspirational epiphanies, deep understanding and comprehensive healing of mind, body and soul.

W

hile society abounds with scientific research, products and practices that promise to enhance our mind or body and the mind-body connection, without Spirit in the mix, neither rises to its full potential. A heart open to a higher power exponentially multiplies the effects of this crucial connection.

“Just as a candle spreads light in a darkened room, people who are living in-Spirit give off a higher energy that can bring light to our hearts and minds.

In other words, we can be inspired just by being in their presence,” according to renowned bestselling author Wayne Dyer, Ph.D.

Experiential, non-verbal and lifechanging encounters with the unbounded power and presence of Spirit in prayer and meditation are difficult to analyze in the same way as mind-body

18 Wayne County Edition

science. However, Dyer points to the works and outcomes of Spirit as visible evidence of how it lifts us up.

We see individuals with rapturous hearts sending out signals that they love the world and everyone in it. Those that live in Spirit tend to see the world as a friendly place, are at peace with themselves, appear to be open and accepting rather than judgmental and harsh, and often report being healed of all sorts of diseases, relationship challenges, career fluctuations and questions of purpose and direction. They attest to how Spirit shines a triumphant light in the midst of dark nights of the soul, redefining the essence of life itself and declaring us worthy in our innermost reaches.

Personal Healing

When a 19-year-old woman entered basic military training at Lackland Air

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Force Base, in San Antonio, Texas, and was undergoing initial medical and psychological screening, she was identified as having body and mind issues that would require her to be separated from the service. These problems included organ failures and spinal misalignment, as well as severe consequences of an emotionally abusive upbringing. It was determined that she could not handle the physical and mental demands of military life. Because the policy was to not treat such problems if identified upon entering the service, authorities allowed her to remain in training until her separation from the Air Force could be processed.

The woman was impressed and also distressed by the finality of the verdict and assessment tools used by mind and body experts among the medical staff. In talking with a chaplain on the base, she came to understand that she could choose to appeal her case to another jurisdiction, a “higher” court of Spirit. Focusing on the voice of divine love, she grew to see Spirit as more than a higher power. She saw Spirit as a higher authority. She surrendered to divine love’s authority as ultimate law, supremely qualified to reorder her whole being. She trusted that aligning with spiritual power could change her view of her identity and the seemingly inescapable consequences of genetics, environment and human history denying her desire to serve her country in this way.

Listening to a higher witness testifying on her behalf and identifying her authentic being as the magnificent expression of the magnificent Creator, she felt encouraged to the point that her mind and body stopped arresting her progress and became more effective servants, responding with greater freedom and joy. One limitation after another fell away, and the military and medical authorities seemed pleased with her progress as she neared completion of training. Finally, performing a mile-and-a-half run within a required time remained the only obstacle to graduation, and she was still 45 seconds too slow.

This helpful passage from the Hebrew prophet Isaiah became central to her prayer and meditation as she approached her last running attempt:

Young people will get tired;

strapping young men will stumble

and fall.

But those who trust in the Eternal One will regain their strength.

They will soar on wings as eagles.

They will run—never winded, never weary.

They will walk—never tired,

never faint. ~Isaiah 40: 30-31 (The Voice)

She passed her final attempt with 18 seconds to spare, running on eagles’ wings.

So, how can we all discern such a divine witness to our original authentic being amidst loud testimony of all the voices and labels shouting in our head and body, including those imposed by others?

Prayer and Meditation

There are two approaches to listening to the voice within, whether we name it God, higher power, Spirit, grace, Eternal One, or divine love or Love.

Complementary, rather than mutually exclusive, both approaches require a capacity, gained through patient practice, of quieting the inner and outer chatter and learning to hear that which calls us to be more than what human experience suggests is possible. It’s who we are in the eyes of grace.

Sanford C. Wilder, of Grafton, Illinois, author of Listening to Grace, offers personal growth and development programs through EducareUnlearning.com that encourage prayer and meditation that emphasize listening. He practices both approaches and makes distinctions between them.

To feel Spirit’s presence, we must surrender our own sense of how it will work, its timeline and the impact on our ego or status quo.

As with anything worthwhile, conscientious practice is essential.

“When I pray, I am directing my thoughts toward God, listening and often affirming what I know to be divinely true. I am yearning to surrender my will and affections in conscious connection with the divine such that I or another receives a blessing,” shares Wilder. In such prayerful listening, he hopes to gain something, often a new insight and corresponding manifestation.

“When I meditate, my intention is to sacrifice every thought, concept, image and feeling to God, the only consciousness. I trust that listening and observing with nonattachment helps me release conscious and unconscious conditioned thought patterns permeated by a human sense of self.” Through meditative listening, he hopes to release everything rather than receive anything, accepting that everyone is equipped and able to be open to, witness and experience nonstop blessings.

Helen Mathis has been an educator in the Philippines and Swaziland as well as the U.S., including an instructor of religion at Principia College, near St. Louis; she is now part of a Centering Prayer Circle in Stockton, California. She explains that centering prayer may be seen as a hybrid that embraces both prayer and meditation, nourishing what’s beneath the preoccupied self to awaken a deeper and vastly more authentic self.

Mathis appreciates what Cynthia Bourgeault explores in her book Centering Prayer and Inner Awakening, that, “This confusion between small self and the larger Self… [the] ‘True Self,’ ‘Essential Self’ or ‘Real I’—is the core illusion of the human condition, and penetrating this illusion is what awakening is all about.”

Like Bourgeault, Mathis believes that it’s not about the absence of thoughts so much as detaching from our thoughts, trusting that we can let go and be safe, consent to surrender human will and forgo personal agendas. Only then can spiritual sense come into play.

“The goal is to awaken to, open

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Through conscious listening we discover that our true nature—as witnessed by Spirit—though sometimes obscured from view, is never altered from its original beauty

us,” he says. “All of life is conspiring for our freedom, liberation, wholeness and health.”

He urges us not to stop and stagnate at stage two, using divine laws only to manifest personal conveniences, stuff and even people for our use; this can hijack views of abundance into materialism and consumerism. He quips, “We are not here to go shopping.”

Dwelling in Spirit

Grace and Spirit work in us, through us and between us, yet we can’t simply summon them up or outline their outcomes.

To feel Spirit’s presence, we must surrender our own sense of how it will work,

and wholeness. ~Helen Mathis to and get in touch with our innermost being and Spirit,” Mathis affirms.

“Clearly, centering prayer assumes we each have a spiritual awareness of the divine within us that acts, as Bourgeault puts it, as ‘a kind of interior compass whose magnetic north is always fixed on God.’”

Core Shift

We often approach a Spirit dimension with the attitude of “what it can do for me.” The higher practice that mystics and other deep thinkers of various faith traditions ultimately arrive at instead centers on transforming our whole self to align with Spirit’s purpose for us, which changes everything.

Reverend Dr. Michael Beckwith, founder of the New Thought Agape Spiritual Center, in Los Angeles, and a spiritual mentor to Oprah Winfrey, believes, “The relationship we have with the infinite is more about how we are to serve it than it is to serve us.”

Beckwith describes three primary stages of realizing the power and purpose of divine Spirit expressed as our spirit. The first is that of a victim (feeling powerless, unable to effect change). The second is when an individual learns the existence of universal law that responds to our thinking, emotions and attitude; we learn how to use it to stabilize life structures and demonstrate health and well-being.

“Ultimately, in stage three, we become a vehicle of life in service to life.

Instead of using the law, the law uses us. Life fulfills its own nature through

20 Wayne County Edition

its timeline and the impact on our ego or status quo. As with anything worthwhile, conscientious practice is essential.

Life, defined by Spirit, gives fresh strength and impetus to mind and body. All three are vital elements of the dance of life.

Richard Davenport is a spiritual life educator (HigherGroundForLife.com) and the founding executive director of an inclusive nationwide Bible and spiritual life community (BibleAndSpiritualLife. org). Now based in St. Louis, MO, he is a retired Air Force chaplain, having served at Lackland and other U.S. Air Force bases on three continents.

FIVE WAYS TO PRAY FROM THE HEART

by Richard Davenport

P

rayer from a heart willing to surrender, change, learn, grow and bless others works to keep us centered on pure motives like wellness, wholeheartedness and compassion. Such prayer can help us progress spiritually.

These five forms of prayer, found in the Bible, have a universal application to any spiritual practice. Although differing in their approach, all share the purpose of creating a fuller mindfulness of our true identity and relationship to the divine, while enhancing our capacity to bless all creation. If we are not feeling the desired breakthroughs using one form, perhaps the one most familiar or comfortable to us, we might do well to explore others.

Praise – a posture of adoration, honoring and surrender to a power, vision, and authority greater than our own.

Thanksgiving – or better yet, for its consistency and permeating of our whole self, thanks-living. The garden of our spirit is enriched by embracing a gratitude attitude in all we do.

Petition – a relational posture that opens our heart as we learn to ask for help, to seek perspective beyond a limited self, beyond a smaller, egodriven orientation.

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Intercession – praying for others; blessing, honoring and cherishing them as God sees them. When we feel burdened and blocked by our own trials, expressing empathy and compassion for others can unlock our heart and mind. We can lovingly witness the true nature of those that are seemingly tangled in forces blocking or opposing their higher good.

Affirmation – release and rest in divine authority, acknowledging the uni-verse as literally one song reflecting the singular harmony that Spirit knows and is unfolding in every moment to meet our need in forms we can see and feel right now.

healthykids

Generous Pint-Sized Givers Teaching Kids How to Care and Share

by Jennifer Jacobson

A

mong a parent’s greatest rewards is seeing their children grow up to be productive, contributing members of society, including knowing how to give back and enrich the communities in which they live. Children can start participating in the giving process as toddlers. Having them observe regular charitable acts can make a strong impression and catalyze later independent initiatives.

Learning how to give and developing the associated skill set is a lifelong journey. Giving becomes a way of life—of looking at the world and determining how to help the causes they feel passionate about. Here’s how to take those crucial first steps.

Ask kids how they’d like to help. If giving to a cause is new to the household, explain that the family has many opportunities. Then engage children in a conversation about the general areas they may feel strongly about supporting—perhaps individuals or families in need, animals or wildlife habitat—and start a list of those that the family is interested in.

Next, start researching related local organizations, facilities and institutions, and matching them to the topics on the list. Ideas may include food kitchens, pet shelters and animal

rescues, nature parks, senior citizens’ residences, camps for low-income or physically or mentally challenged children, zoos, museums, aquariums and local libraries.

Make a game plan. Get creative about how to actually help the selected causes. Talk it through together, map out activities—like visiting, donating funds or materials or participating in fundraising efforts—and post the results somewhere at home that is highly visible. “Gamify” it to some degree with tasks that turn into goals that turn into accomplishments that result in chits.

Quick tasks can make a big difference. Clear the clutter. Every six to 12 months, launch an all-family household closet cleaning day that includes the toy chest and maybe the garage. Add nonperishable healthy food items they’ve picked out while grocery shopping.

Make a “donate box” positioned where kids can add to it and deliver the donations often, even if it’s small.

Find ways to raise money for donations. Organize a family or neighborhood yard sale or organic bake sale that involves kids at all stages of the project, and give all or a portion of the proceeds to a selected charity.

Associate getting with giving. For birthdays and holidays, include a

handwritten “certificate of giving” that specifies the amount of money available for them to gift to their favorite charity. Take the child to the charity site to make the monetary donation in person, if possible. For non-local organizations, write a check and have the child include a letter with their thoughts and mail it.

Volunteer to do community service. Public gardens need weeding, historic buildings need painting and food banks need hands. Find goodwill tasks that are age-appropriate and engaging.

Grow the mindset. Tell real-life stories about kids or groups of kids that have found creative ways to give back. Encourage empathy by sharing appropriate stories of struggle. Ask kids, “How would you want people to help you in this situation?” Explain the action the family is taking and the resulting benefit to the recipient.

The conversation might be, “We don’t need to store all this stuff when someone else could really use it.” Or, “I bet there is a kid out there who would really like playing with this toy.

I know you used to love it, but how about if you pass it along to someone else so they can enjoy it as much as you have?” Keep the focus on the people in need and your child’s ability to share an experience through an item.

Establishing an impermanent connection to material things can help kids understand the importance of nurturing relationships over acquiring goods.

Develop a language of giving in the household by creating opportunities to incorporate it into regular conversation. Appropriate comments could share concepts such as seeing ourselves as stewards of the planet and the things we think we own; it’s our duty to help those in need when we have abundance; and if there is ever a time when we are without, we hope that others will think of us and help us.

Teaching children how their thoughts, words and actions impact those around them is a lesson that bears repeating.

Jennifer Jacobson lives in Seattle and has served on the boards of several influential nonprofits and other organizations focused on conservation, education and community.

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December 2015

21

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When someone shows you who they are, believe them the first time. ~Maya Angelou

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December 2015

23

Eat, Bark and Be Merry Healthy Holiday Treats for Our Pets

by Sandra Murphy

A

s with families everywhere, special taste treats are on the menu for many dogs, cats and wild birds during the holiday season. Owners are cautioned not to share rich, unfamiliar foods from the table that can be detrimental to an animal’s health. Better fare are homemade treats of organic, safe and tasty ingredients—true gifts from the heart.

Homemade assures the quality of ingredients, avoids unhealthy additives and allows the giver to adjust for individual taste or food sensitivities. Most healthy recipes can be made from readily available ingredients.

Wild Birds

Offer them a variety of seeds and fresh water. Always use unsalted, unseasoned seeds. Mix harder-to-crack striped sunflower seeds with the smaller black oil version to attract the largest number of birds. Organically grown peanuts in the shell, dried fruit, oranges, pomegranates or rehydrated raisins offer a burst of energy. Impale round fruits, halved, on a small dowel rod attached to the feeding table to hold them in place.

Note that oats go to waste, shelled sunflower seeds spoil and cracked corn attracts raccoons. Pass on any kind of popcorn.

24 Wayne County Edition

DIY Suet

Mix one part organic peanut butter with five parts organic, non-GMO (genetically modified) corn meal. Smear into a pinecone to hang from a branch or directly on tree bark for woodpeckers and wrens to enjoy. Don’t use low-fat peanut butter because birds need to pack in the calories in order to stay warm.

Cats

Organic catnip, fresh or dried and baked into a crunchy treat, will bring kitty running. In recipes, avoid canned tuna because of bisphenol A (BPA) concerns; also minimize the frequency and portion of tuna and salmon treats due to mercury accumulation in the fish. Unseasoned tuna or salmon packed in water in a pouch is a better choice. Many recipes labeled for dogs can be converted for cats by making them into smaller bites.

Dogs

“When possible, I put organic and local foods, non-GMO, hormone-and antibiotic-free, grass-fed and humanely raised properties at the top of my list. A healthier dog means fewer vet visits and more years together,” says Tonya Wilhelm, a dog trainer in Toledo, Ohio. “Buy in bulk from a co-op or farmer and maybe share with friends to get the best price.”

NaturalAwakeningsDetroit.com

Dehydrated Foods

Dehydrating removes moisture from food while retaining nutrients, and comprises a distinct cooking method. Stephanie Raya, resident chef at Excalibur Dehydrator, in Sacramento, California, recommends, “For safe chicken and pork, pre-cook before dehydrating. Beef can be dehydrated from a raw state. My Boston terriers also love dehydrated, sweet potato chips.”

A number of commercial dehydrated meat and fish jerkies have been recalled (search DogFoodAdvisor.com/?s=treats).

Homemade treats offer superior control of ingredients.

“When I make my pets’ treats, I know what’s in their food, including the herbs used for flavor,” says Raya. After she’s ensured that the food is thoroughly dried, she packs it in vacuum bags and stores them away from light. She notes that dehydrating takes longer than baking, but is cost-effective at 25 to 50 cents an hour. Veggie options include dehydrated zucchini chips, butternut squash chips, cherry tomato bites, matchstick carrots or peach or other fruit slices.

Make it Festive

A cat’s sense of smell is 10 to 15 times better than ours, but is still modest compared to dogs that out-sniff us by a factor of 30 to 60 times; that’s why putting wrapped treats under a holiday tree or in a stocking is a bad idea. Store them securely and then bring them out when it’s time to open gifts. Use blue tissue paper for easy-to-open Hanukkah gifts, red or green for Christmas (bows, yes; ribbons, no). For dogs that love puzzles, placing treats inside a wrapped box adds to the fun.

Remember that rich or unfamiliar foods can make pets sick. Instead, gift them with their own healthy, safe treats from known ingredients so that everyone has a happy holiday.

Connect with Sandra Murphy at StLouisFreelanceWriter@mindspring.com.

petcalendarofevents THUR, DEC 03, 2015 Play Date – 6-7pm. One hour off-leash romp for small breed dogs, under 11 lbs; interact & play. Hosted by Friends for the Dearborn Animal Shelter. Proof of vaccinations required including distemper, bordetella & current fecal exam. $10.RSVP. Friends Training Center, 2621 S Telegraph, Dearborn. Dearbornanimals.org 313-943-2697.

Quartermania Fundraiser – 7-9pm. The hot new fun fundraiser that’s a cross between Bingo and Bunco but not as hard. Leon’s Family Dining, 8787 Telegraph, Taylor. WagAnimalRescue.com.

SAT, DEC 05, 2015 Pet Adoption Event – 11am-3pm. Meet some Michigan Humane Society dogs and cats of all ages who are waiting for adoption. Pet Smart, 5650 Mercury Dr, Dearborn. 866-648-6263.

SUN, DEC 27, 2015 Adoption Event -12-3pm. Wag Animal Rescue, Pet Supplies Plus, 19295 West Rd, Woodhaven. WagAnimalRescue.com.

THURSDAYS “Ice Cream Social” –7-9pm. Bring your dog in for a Yoghund Frozen Yogurt treat. Socialize and play! $2 & human treat is free. Bow Wow Baktique, 21035 Mack, Grosse Pointe Woods. 313-469-7204.

SATURDAYS Adoption Event – 11am-3pm. Wag Animal Rescue, Pet Smart, 13150 Middlebelt Rd, Livonia. WagAnimalRescue.com.

DAILY Dog Park –7am-10pm. Visit Detroit’s first official unleashed Dog Park.

PetSmart P.U. P.’s Detroit Dog Park. Off leash socialization fun for your dog. Free.17th Street and Rose Street, Detroit.

GPAAS Adoption Event – 12-1:30 pm; senior dogs, puppies, small dogs.

1:30-3pm; medium & large dogs. 12-3 pm; cats. At Soc, 158 Ridge Rd, Grosse Pointe Farms. Gpaas.org. 313-884-1551.

THUR, DEC 10, 2015 Play Date – 6-7pm. One hour off-leash romp for large breed dogs; interact & play. Hosted by Friends for the Dearborn Animal Shelter. Proof of vaccinations required including distemper, bordetella & current fecal exam. $10. RSVP. Friends Training Center, 2621 S Telegraph, Dearborn.

Dearbornanimals.org.313-943-2697.

SAT, DEC 12, 2015 Howl-a-day Pooch Paw-ty -11am-3pm. Bring your pooch and join Friends for the Dearborn Animal Shelter for a one hour to a one-hour holiday themed paw-ty to learn a trick or two, play a few games, participate in arts and crafts, jump into a new sport, or just learn how to have tail-waggin’ fun. Dogs reain on-leash to ensure a safe environment for all. Homemade dog treats available from Fido’s Bakery for purchase, to help rescues in the care of Dearborn Animal Shelter. (lg breed dogs 11am to noon, small breed dogs 12:30-1:30pm & all-size 2-3pm). $10 per dog. RSVP by emailing lthomas@dearbornanimals.org. 313-943-2697.

GPAAS Adoption Event – 12-1:30 pm; senior dogs, puppies, small dogs.

1:30-3pm; medium & large dogs. 12-3 pm; cats. At Soc, 158 Ridge Rd, Grosse Pointe Farms. Gpaas.org. 313-884-1551.

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SUN, DEC 13 , 2015 Adoption Event – 12-3pm. Wag Animal Rescue, Pet Supplies Plus, 22124 Ecorse Rd, Taylor. WagAnimalRescue.com.

THUR, DEC 17, 2015 Play Date – 6-7pm. One hour off-leash romp for medium breed dogs; interact & play. Hosted by Friends for the Dearborn Animal Shelter. Proof of vaccinations required including distemper, bordetella & current fecal exam. $10. RSVP. Friends Training Center, 2621 S Telegraph, Dearborn.

Dearbornanimals.org.313-943-2697.

John B. Smith, D.V.M. Office Hours by appointment

www.dogdoctor.us

(734) 213-7447

Petcare Holistic Veterinary Center

1954 S. Industrial, Ann Arbor, MI 48104

natural awakenings

December 2015

25

Transformative Personal & Professional Development Retreat

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HEAVENLY SCENTS How to Make Your Own Natural Oil Fragrances

by Kathleen Barnes

A

Early Bird Price $179 until 12/31/15

whiff of sweetness can communicate a personal signature of tranquility, alertness or romance, or it can cause a bout of miserable sneezing, wheezing or nausea for those in the vicinity and even the unwitting wearer.

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THE ART OF SPONSORSHIP: Creating Sponsorship Packages That Get Funded Feb 20 & 27, 2016

26 Wayne County Edition

“When you see ‘fragrance’ on a personal care product label, read it as ‘hidden chemicals,’” warns the Washington, D.C.-based nonprofit watchdog Environmental Working Group (EWG). “A major loophole in the [U.S.] Food and Drug Administration’s federal law lets manufacturers of products like shampoo, lotion and body wash include nearly any ingredient under the term fragrance without actually listing the chemical.” Companies that manufacture personal care products are required by law to list the ingredients they use, but fragrances and trade-secret formulas are exempt.

What’s known as a dirty little secret in the fragrance industry is the unlabeled presence of toxic chemicals not only in perfumes, but in any personal care product that includes a scent. Lab tests commissioned by the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics and analyzed by the EWG confirm the presence of parabens

NaturalAwakeningsDetroit.com

that interfere with hormone production, cancer-causing phthalates, and synthetic musks that have been linked to hormone disruption, among many other ills.

Naturally Safe Scents

“Opting for natural scents from organic essential oils not only offers a toxinfree alternative, the oils’ aromatherapy benefits have time-proven therapeutic value,” suggests Dorene Petersen, president and founder of the American College of Healthcare Sciences, in Portland, Oregon.

Recent research from the Pontificia Universidade Catolica, in Brazil, confirms that lavender oil has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and pain-relieving properties similar to those of a mild-dose narcotic. Plus, it smells heavenly, says botanical perfumer Roxana Villa, of Woodland Hills, a California-based spokesperson for the National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy.

“Considering the part of the plant used will give you an idea of its therapeutic value,” says Villa. “A root base will be good for grounding. Since bark is like skin, oils such as birch will benefit skin and muscles. Oils from flowers are excellent for anything related to the head and mind.”

Oregano and cinnamon oils have powerful antifungal properties, even against Candida-type fungi resistant to prescription drugs, according to Brazilian research from Universidade Federal. A groundbreaking study from the Slovak University of Technology, in Slovakia, even suggests that rosemary oil can kill cancer cells.

These are all scents that can be the foundations of do-it-yourself perfumes.

Customized Blends

“It’s fun to experiment with organic essential oils and create that unique blend that becomes a personal signature,” says Charlynn Avery, an aromatherapist with Aura Cacia, in Norway, Iowa. She explains that essential oils have three basic “notes” and blending them correctly will result in a fragrance suited to last throughout the day.

“The base note is heavier and lasts the longest. Patchouli, vetiver, sandalwood, cedarwood and jasmine hang around longer in the atmosphere and on the wearer,” she explains. Blending the base with a slightly lighter middle note like lavender, rosemary or clary sage and a light and short-lasting top note like orange, lime or peppermint will create a complex and pleasing blend.

The 1-2-3s of Blending Oils Base Notes Middle Notes Top Notes sandalwood lavender orange jasmine bergamot lemon myrrh geranium grapefruit vetiver rosemary eucalyptus patchouli tea tree lime cedarwood clary sage peppermint A general ratio of 50 percent base note oils to 30 percent middle notes and 20 percent top notes is recommended.

Source: courtesy of AuraCacia.com

“That’s the beauty of the art of it,” says Avery. “You can create synergistic blends that harmonize and complement the attributes of each to such an extent that you may not be able to detect the scents of the individual oils.”

There are no hard and fast rules, but our experts offer a few guidelines for creating our own unique blends that will be well-received as holiday gifts.

Use a base of oil like jojoba or sweet almond to create a perfumed oil.

Note that oils undiluted by a carrier can burn the skin.

For oil-based blends, use a ratio of 50 drops of bottom note oil, 30 drops of a middle note and 20 drops of a top note in two ounces of carrier oil.

Another option is to use an alcohol base of either isopropyl rubbing alcohol or 85-proof vodka to make a spray perfume; the alcohol will evaporate quickly.

Alcohol-based blends generally last longer, especially with fragile citrus oils.

A usual ratio is 10 to 20 drops of essential oil per ounce of alcoholbased carrier.

Oil-based blends are ready to use almost immediately. Alcohol-based blends should age a week or two at least and will become more strongly scented in time.

Store fragrances in bottles in a dark, cool place. Bottles with tiny rollon caps are commercially available.

“It’s very much trial and error to arrive at a preferred scent, so be creative and keep careful notes of experiments and improve on them as you gain experience,” counsels Avery. “If you crinkle your nose at patchouli, you probably won’t like an oil blend with it, either.

Choose scents you like.”

Kathleen Barnes is author of numerous natural health books including Food Is Medicine. Connect at Kathleen Barnes.com.

GIFT BLEND FOR MEN Western cultures value “manly” Earth scents like sandalwood and cedarwood, while in other cultures, flowery scents are acceptable for men.

An appealing woodsy blend for an American male blends cedarwood, clary sage and lime. natural awakenings

December 2015

27

Creating a Dream Wedding

by Valerie Meservey

M

any little girls dream of an expensive, lavish, white wedding, one where their guests sip on champagne, and use fine china while eating their plated dinner.

While it seemed this was the norm for quite some time, it looks as if today’s modern brides are gravitating towards a more personalized, less expensive approach; a DIY (Do/Design It Yourself) wedding.

In recent years, popularity seems to be increasing for the DIY wedding, especially those with a rustic or vintage theme. Venues like the historic Packard Proving Grounds (which dates back to 1928), create the perfect backdrop for a DIY wedding; a lovely, rustic atmosphere that is hidden behind a set of beautiful iron gates. A setting such as this provides the bride and groom creative flexibility not typically available within the cookiecutter banquet halls that so many people are accustomed to.

28 Wayne County Edition

NaturalAwakeningsDetroit.com

Creative flexibility is paramount in making a DIY wedding a success since it allows for two primary objectives to be managed more easily: budget and personal style.

Popular trends in rustic styled weddings may include period inspired clothing, brooch bouquets and cake toppers, feather and shotgun shell boutonnieres, early Americana inspired signage, and hanky buntings. In some instances, period inspired music has even been integrated into the events.

Each of these elements can provide a bride and groom the opportunity to personalize their special day to their liking, while also keeping it cost effective.

A DIY event with a limited budget doesn’t need to be intimidating either. Sure, some people might think that a DIY wedding is only suitable for people with a Martha Stewartstyle skill set, and military-like planning, but with websites such as Pinterest, to get ideas flowing, and YouTube, to show

you how to execute newly founded concepts, it’s much easier than one might think. Estate sales and antique shows are a few great places where goods and inspiration can be acquired to make the event one that guests will remember for years to come. Plus, this is upcycling, at its best.

Surprisingly, a DIY wedding doesn’t necessarily mean that everything has to be handmade, either. It could be something as simple as integrating a family heirloom or two into your wardrobe. The key to executing a true DIY wedding is being able to infuse personal style into the event. Although many brides would like to make their own crafts, sometimes the time needed just simply isn’t available. Fortunately, today’s virtual marketplace provides ample opportunity through websites like Etsy.com, putting brides in touch with one-of -a-kind products that are available for purchase.

Another important aspect of the wedding is planning. While this task can be frightening, some simple steps

can be taken to help ease the pain.

Creating a “wedding brain” by using a basic three ring binder divided out into sections is one of the most useful tips that a bride is likely to receive. This can be an extremely helpful tool because

it aids in organizing all of the event particulars such as payment due dates, vendor documentation, budget plans, a guest list, out of town accommodations, and day of timeline among other things.

Keeping all of documentation together, and checking it often, is the key to staying on track.

When the big day finally arrives, it’s normal for the bride (and groom) to feel a bit overwhelmed. Not only have you spent months upon months planning, but you’ve most likely put in some pretty significant time crafting as well. The last thing a bride should worry about on her big day is setting up her tables, or making sure the vendors show up on time. This is where hiring a day of coordinator (DOC) is highly recommended. Different from a wedding planner, the primary objective of the DOC is to limit the amount of activity required of the bride and groom on their big day. Not to mention, a DOC can be monumental in letting the soon-to-be newlyweds enjoy their day to the fullest extent. Since a DOC is only hired for one full day and usually two or three planning sessions, their services are quite often reasonably priced – even for a limited budget.

The purpose of a DOC is to be the go to person or the “management” of the day’s events. Ideally, the DOC becomes the primary contact for the venue and all vendors involved. They are also there to assist with putting the final touches on any wedding decorations, and to intercept questions that vendors or others may have.

Never be afraid to break out and create the wedding of your dreams.

Just because someone else doesn’t understand why you want a penguin cake topper doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t have it! Also, whenever possible, take advantage of available resources, making your special day a little easier to achieve.

Valerie Meservey, celebrated her dream DIY wedding at The Packard Proving Grounds in September of 2014 and is now the owner of The Sass Shoppe, a rustic inspired Etsy store, plus is a DYI Day of Coordinator who focuses on the bridal couple’s vision and making theirs dreams come true. TheSassShoppe.com

natural awakenings

December 2015

29

SWEETLY VEGAN No-Bake Holiday Treats Worth Celebrating It’s in Our DNA to Be Successful We can help you thrive. Advertise in our special

Health & Wellness January Issue

To advertise or participate in our next issue, call

313-221-9674 30 Wayne County Edition

by Judith Fertig

“

V

isions of sugar plums” have been part of holiday mindsets since the advent of Clement Moore’s classic 19th-century poem commonly known as ’Twas the Night Before Christmas.

We love to give and receive special treats and our tastes are evolving. Instead of yesteryear’s sugary bonbons loaded with calories that we’ve come to regret, today’s preferred confections focus more on naturally sweet dried fruits, bestquality chocolate, healthful coconut and crunchy nuts. Vegan, gluten-free delicacies from chefs and culinary experts the world over help us celebrate the season in a deliciously healthy way, including those we highlight this month.

“Christmas isn’t Christmas without a traditional pudding,” says Chef Teresa Cutter, author of Purely Delicious. Cutter is founder and director of The Healthy Chef company, in Sydney, Australia, which creates functional foods for taste and optimal health. Her no-bake desserts such as miniature Christmas puddings and carrot cake take only minutes to make.

Emily Holmes, a Queensland, Australia, wellness coach who blogs at Conscious-Foodie.com, says her favorite is Holmes’ Chocolate Cherry Mini-Cupcakes. She serves them with a pot of peppermint tea.

Houston-based Joshua Weissman is the author of The Slim Palate Paleo Cookbook and blogs at SlimPalate. com. He shares his philosophy on holiday treats: “My first thought is that I don’t want to feel guilty after eating it.

My second is that I still want it to taste and look good.” His Almond Butter Pumpkin Pie Truffles fit the festive bill.

In New York City, noted vegan cookbook author and Pastry Chef Fran Costigan is an expert in all things chocolate, including her Chocolate Orange Sesame Truffles. “When you make something really delicious with real ingredients, your mouth knows it, your brain knows it, your body knows it. You feel satisfied,” she says.

Judith Fertig blogs at AlfrescoFood AndLifestyle.blogspot.com from Overland Park, KS.

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

NaturalAwakeningsDetroit.com

Photo by Stephen Blancett

consciouseating

No-Bake Festive Vegan Desserts

Combine walnuts, flaxseed, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, orange zest and sea salt into a food processor and run it until mixed and finely chopped. Add dates and apricots. Process again until thoroughly mixed.

Spoon a little white chocolate over the tops of the puddings if desired and garnish with goji berries, fresh cherries or another fanciful topper.

Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Serve puddings with chilled mango coconut custard.

Yields: 6 to 8 small puddings

Combine all ingredients into a blender and blend until smooth. Serve chilled with the puddings.

8 oz fresh pitted dates—approximately 10 to 15 dates, depending on their size Zest from 1 orange 9 oz dried apricots, chopped 1½ cups almond meal/ground almonds 1 tsp vanilla bean paste or extract 1 tsp ground cinnamon ¼ tsp ground nutmeg ¼ tsp ground ginger 1 to 2 Tbsp orange juice 3 oz white chocolate, melted, for decoration (optional) Combine dates, orange zest, apricots, vanilla, ground almonds, cinnamon, nutmeg and ginger in a food processor.

Process until mixture is combined and looks like fine crumbs.

Spoon the mixture into a large bowl.

Add the orange juice, and then mix again. Pudding mix should come together when lightly hand-squeezed.

Divide into 6 small puddings. Line the base of 6 small decorative molds with plastic wrap and firmly press the puddings into them.

Once firmly packed in the mold, invert the pudding and remove the plastic wrap.

Melt white chocolate in a small bowl set over a simmering pot of water.

Spoon into a bowl. Add and kneed oats through the raw carrot cake mixture.

Press cake firmly into a 6-inch round baking dish lined with parchment paper.

Mango Coconut Custard 1 mango, chopped ½ cup coconut milk Juice from ½ orange

Teresa Cutter’s Healthy Christmas Puddings

Add grated raw carrot and vanilla and then process again until combined. The mix should now form a nice dough.

Refrigerate until ready to serve, allowing at least 2 hours for the cake to rest.

It will keep in the refrigerator for about a week.

Enjoy as is or garnish with macadamia nut cream, a drizzle of honey and walnuts.

Note: Other raw nuts can substitute for walnuts—try pecans, almonds or macadamia nuts.

Macadamia Nut Cream Combine 1 cup of raw cashew nuts or macadamia nuts with ½ cup of orange juice or coconut water and a little vanilla. Blend in a high-speed blender like a Vitamix until smooth and creamy.

Teresa Cutter’s No-Bake Carrot Cake Yields: 16 servings 2½ cups (9½ oz) shelled walnuts 1 Tbsp ground flaxseed or whole chia seeds ½ cup (2 oz) rolled oats (or gluten-free almond meal) 1 tsp ground cinnamon ¼ tsp ground ginger ¼ tsp ground nutmeg ¼ tsp sea salt 1 cup (6½ oz) of 12 large fresh dates, pitted ½ cup (3 oz) dried chopped apricots or pineapple (sulfur-free) 2 large raw carrots, grated Zest from 1 orange 2 tsp vanilla bean paste

Emily Holmes’ Chocolate Cherry Mini-Cupcakes Yields: 2 dozen mini-cupcakes Cake 1 cup raw, shelled, skinned nuts (such as almonds) 1 /3 cup cacao powder 4 fresh dates, pitted Filling 2 cup shredded coconut 1 cup dried cherries 6 fresh dates, pitted ¼ cup coconut cream ¼ tsp vanilla powder Pinch of sea salt

natural awakenings

December 2015

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Joshua Weissman’s Almond Butter Pumpkin Pie Truffles Yields: About 12 to 16 (1½-inch) truffles Warm winter spices mix with fragrant pumpkin and almond butter to make seasonal truffles hand dipped in fresh vanilla bean-infused white chocolate.

Filling ¼ cup canned pumpkin purée (not pie filling) ¼ cup almond butter ¼ cup vegan cream cheese ¼ tsp cinnamon ¼-½ tsp nutmeg ½ tsp fresh grated ginger 1 Tbsp coconut flour 2 packets stevia (like Sweetleaf packets) Coating (vanilla bean white chocolate) 2 oz food grade (not for skin care) cacao butter broken up into small pieces for melting ¼-½ vanilla bean pod, cut in half lengthwise to scrape out the interior, or 1 tsp vanilla bean paste 20 drops stevia (like Sweetleaf Steviaclear drops) In a medium-sized bowl, combine everything for the filling, including pumpkin purée, almond butter, cream

Roll chilled filling mixture into mediumto-small-sized balls a little less than an inch in diameter and place them on a small baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Place balls back into the refrigerator for 10 minutes or the freezer for 5 minutes so the balls harden enough to allow dipping.

Heat a double boiler or small pot that fits into a medium pot of gently boiling water over medium-to-low heat.

Scrape out the vanilla bean pod, conserving vanilla beans for adding once the cacao butter is melted.

Place cacao butter in the top of a double boiler and melt and add stevia.

Then add vanilla beans and mix well.

Turn the heat to low to keep warm and melted. Pull out the hardened filling shaped into balls and one at a time drop them into the white chocolate mixture and roll them around until they’re fully covered with mixture using fingers or a small spoon.

Carefully spoon out each truffle using a spoon, gently tapping the spoon on the inside of the saucepan to slough off excess cacao butter that may pool on it.

Take special care not to drop the truffle.

Topping 3½ oz melted dark chocolate Process nuts and cacao powder in a food processor until the nuts are finely ground and the mixture is fully combined. Slowly add the dates until the mixture sticks together.

Press the mixture into the bottom parts of a 24-cup mini muffin pan. Refrigerate while preparing the filling.

Process filling ingredients in a food processor until well combined. Spoon the filling onto the cupcake base in the muffin cups and then top with melted dark chocolate.

Place into the refrigerator to set, where it also stores well until served.

32 Wayne County Edition

cheese, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, coconut flour and stevia. Mix thoroughly until smoothly incorporated and no cream cheese chunks are left.

Gently place each treat back onto the tray. Repeat the whole process until all the coated balls are on the tray.

Chill by refrigerating the mixture for 10 to 20 minutes or freezing it for 2 to 5 minutes.

Let them cool at room temperature and serve immediately or place them in the refrigerator to harden and serve later. Chilled, truffles will keep for 3 to 5 days.

NaturalAwakeningsDetroit.com

times using a silicone spatula.

Fran Costigan’s Chocolate Orange Sesame Truffles Yields: 20 to 24 (1-inch) truffles This creamy chocolate truffle has a slightly chewy texture with a coating for color and crunch. Raw tahini is sweeter than when its roasted and either kind is good.

Truffle Ganache 4 oz dark fair trade chocolate (70 to 72 percent), finely chopped Finely minced zest of half a medium orange 3 Tbsp orange juice ¼ cup agave syrup 1 Tbsp raw or roasted tahini, stirred 1½ Tbsp white sesame seeds, lightly toasted 1½ Tbsp black sesame seeds, lightly toasted Place the chocolate in a small heatproof bowl.

Mix the orange zest and juice and agave in a small saucepan. Cook over medium heat just to a boil.

Reduce the heat to low and add the tahini, whisking vigorously. The mixture will thicken immediately. Don’t be concerned if it looks broken or curdled; it’ll smooth out with whisking.

Simmer the mixture for 30 seconds until it’s shiny and smooth. Remove from heat and wait about 30 seconds until it’s no longer steaming and then pour it over the chocolate.

Cover the bowl with a plate. Wait 1 minute and then stir until the chocolate is completely melted. Note: The ganache will not be perfectly smooth.

Photo by Steve Legato

Spoon into a small shallow container and refrigerate uncovered about 2 hours until the ganache is firm. The ganache can be covered and refrigerated at this point for up to 1 week.

Shape Truffle Centers Remove the ganache from the refrigerator. Use one spoon to scoop out 1-inch pieces of ganache and another to push it off the spoon into the container.

When half the ganache has been used, roll into logs about 1-inch long, washing and drying hands as needed. (If at any time the ganache becomes too soft to shape, refrigerate until cold before proceeding.)

Cover and refrigerate the truffle centers 15 to 25 minutes to set, before final shaping and finishing with the sesame seed coating.

Truffle Coating Mix the sesame seeds in a small bowl.

Sprinkle about 2 tablespoons on the bottom of a shallow container.

Put a few logs at a time into the bowl of sesame seeds and roll until lightly coated. Pinch the ends to form the oval quenelle (football) shape.

Place the finished truffles in the refrigerator to set for 35 to 45 minutes.

Adapted from Vegan Chocolate, by Fran Costigan, used with permission.

Cool to room temperature, stirring a few

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December 2015

33

fitbody

Calf Stretch

Airplane Yoga Six Easy Stretches Ease the Journey

Upper Body Stretch

by Cynthia Bowman

T

he majority of the symptoms we can experience during flying—stiffness, poor circulation and swollen feet—are due to lack of movement rather than the altitude or pressurized cabin air. Knowing this can make healthy flying easier.

Drinking lots of water and moving about and stretching every two to three hours on long flights is key; trips to the bathroom naturally help fulfill this. We also can keep blood from collecting in our lower extremities by finding a way to elevate our legs and feet periodically. Wiggle all 10 toes, shift positions and go for these six discreet airplane yoga stretches.

Etiquette tip: Do the first two stretches at the back of the plane with adequate space and a wall to lean on. Don’t do these in the aisle; hanging on to someone’s seat back rocks it and can be annoying.

A quad stretch involves the shoulders, upper legs, calves and ankles, while elevating each foot and getting the blood moving. Hang on to a wall, grab an ankle and bring the heel as close to the butt as possible.

Then rotate the ankle in a circular motion. Do this as long as it feels worth doing, and then switch arms and legs.

A calf stretch is a simple way to target calf and hamstring muscles, as well as ankles. Stand facing a wall, placing both hands Quad Stretch at shoulder height on the wall for

34 Wayne County Edition

NaturalAwakeningsDetroit.com

Neck Stretch

Twisting the Torso

Bending Forward

balance, elbows bent. Take one foot forward and rest it on its heel, with toes pointing up and resting on the wall. Lean forward to the point of feeling a good stretch in the calf.

Stretch 30 seconds per foot, gradually going deeper into the pose after a few breaths.

Etiquette tip: The next four stretches can be done in an airplane seat or in the back of the plane.

The upper body stretch targets wrists, hands, arms, shoulders, back and the upper body in general. Sit upright with feet firmly planted on the floor. Lift arms up and interlace fingers before turning palms to face the ceiling. Relax the shoulders and neck. The arms shouldn’t be covering the ears and can be adjusted by moving them a few inches forward or back.

Tall individuals may need to bend their elbows, which still allows for stretching of the upper body.

Neck stretches release tension and stiffness by tilting the head from side-to-side. Don’t make circular motions, as they can cause neck and spine compression. If holding the head to assist a deeper stretch, be considerate of neighbors by pointing the raised elbow forward to cradle the neck instead of resting it on a seatmate.

Twisting the torso benefits both the spine and back muscles.

Yogis believe that twisting motions also massage internal organs.

While twisting, hang on to the armrest with both hands and sit as upright as possible, with legs together and feet firmly planted.

Don’t bounce into the pose or shift or lift buttocks off the seat, but make slow, fluid movements.

Bending forward while seated gives the back, neck and legs a good, deep stretch.

All of these movements work well while we’re in the air and are equally useful on road trips, in the office or whenever we need a break.

Cynthia Bowman is a freelance writer in Los Angeles, CA, who specializes in travel, culture and lifestyle topics. Visit JoyJournist.com.

natural awakenings

December 2015

35

wisewords

Sharon Salzberg on Mindfulness Simple Ways to Be in the Present Moment

by April Thompson

N

How do you define mindfulness?

Mindfulness is the quality of awareness.

When we are mindful, our perception of the present moment isn’t so distorted by bias, adding our own storyline to

36 Wayne County Edition

reality and pushing away what’s happening.

photo by Fabio Fiippi

ew York City-born Sharon Salzberg experienced a childhood full of loss and upheaval, losing her parents and living in five different household configurations. In college, she discovered the power of meditation to transform suffering and cope with life’s neverending changes.

Born into a Jewish family, Salzberg first encountered Buddhism in 1969 in an Asian philosophy class, inspiring her to undertake an independent study program in India, where she was initiated into the practice via an intense 10-day retreat. “It was very difficult and painful. I sometimes doubted that I’d succeed, yet I never doubted that there was truth there,” she says.

Upon her return home, Salzburg dedicated herself to the path of vipassana- (insight) meditation, becoming a renowned teacher and co-founding the Insight Meditation Society, in Barre, Massachusetts. Today she teaches and speaks to diverse audiences worldwide about the power of mindfulness. Salzberg has authored nine books, including the New York Times bestseller Real Happiness, Real Happiness at Work and Lovingkindness.

Is it possible to be mindful without having an established meditation practice?

Yes, theoretically, but I suspect it’s hard. I honor my own meditation practice for making mindfulness highly accessible for me. It doesn’t take many hours of prep work and is open to everyone. It’s really a practice, like strength training—you have to exercise the mindfulness muscle to reap the benefits.

What’s the best way to arrange time for meditation, and what can motivate us to practice regularly?

Having a sense of structure has helped me the most. I believe strongly in the value of a daily practice, however simple or short. We can ritualize certain practices to help remember to pause and be mindful. For example, every time the phone rings, let it ring three times and use that as a trigger to breathe. When you’ve finished writing an email, take a few conscious moments before sending it. There are lots of ways to cut through the momentum of the busyness and craziness of our lives to return to mindfulness.

Make a commitment to practice for a certain period of daily time for a month or two, and then reassess. Look

NaturalAwakeningsDetroit.com

for changes during the active course of daily life and query: How am I speaking to myself or to others? Am I more present? Am I more at ease in letting go?

It’s important to look for these subtle changes rather than to set unrealistic expectations for ourselves such as being mindful all day.

Do you have other enabling practices for people new to the state of living mindfully?

Movement meditation is a good place to start; if you’re walking somewhere, try to be more present and feel your feet against the ground. Also, just focus on one thing at a time; instead of multitasking, just drink the cup of tea.

We can also use breath to focus concentration. The breath is a tremendous tool, it’s always with us. If you’re in a contentious meeting and tempers flare, you don’t have to pull out a meditation cushion and sit in a funny position; you can work with your breath right where you are.

How can meditation help to ease suffering?

Sometimes, we think we can ease suffering by only having pleasant feelings and beautiful thoughts. Rather, we can ease suffering by changing the way we relate to our thoughts and feelings. If something unpleasant is happening, most of us flip into an internal monologue about how, “Bad things always happen to me,” or “This is my fault,” or “I shouldn’t feel this.” We compound our suffering by adding judgment and by pushing away discomfort. Instead, we can learn to observe our reactions and release them.

We also tend not to feel pleasure fully or think that something else or more should be happening instead of simply enjoying the moment. We wait for some sense of intensity in order to feel alive, rather than experiencing the ordinary to the utmost. Meditation trains us to be present with pleasant, unpleasant and neutral experiences and stay connected, no matter what’s going on.

Reach freelance writer April Thompson, of Washington, D.C., at AprilWrites.com.

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December 2015

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calendarofevents All Calendar events must be received by the 15th of the month prior to publication, and adhere to our guidelines.

Please visit HealthyLivingDetroit.com for guidelines and to submit entries.

TUES, DEC 01, 2015

SAT, DEC 05, 2015

MON, DEC 07, 2015

Greater Health Community Walking Group – (12/3,12/7, 12/8). 6-7:30pm. Connect with new friends and thrive in healthy fun. Free. Detroit.

313-451-1278.

Meet Mr. Dickens –1-2:30pm. Downriver Council for the Arts presents their annual catered holiday luncheon while you listen to a unique dramatic recreation of the actual 19th century stage presentation which Dickens himself performed on stages around the world. Discover how Charles Dickens was inspired to write “A Christmas Carol”. Raffles, shop the Winter Wonderland Boutique & visit the Galleries. $25. Limited seating/RSVP. Downriver Council for the Arts, 81 Chestnut, Wyandotte.DownriverArts.org.

734-720-0671.

Stretch & Tone – 7:15-8:15 pm. Pilates-based format, w/ intervals of stretching. All fitness levels welcome & no prior experience required.

Wear comfortable, form-fitting clothes and bring yoga mat. 10. Biddle Blend, 3203 Biddle Ave, Wyandotte. Blazingbellydance.com. 313-5063073.

Getting Back to Basics with Vitamins- 7:158:30pm. Dr. Gregory will be discussing the value of multivitamins. Learn about the drastic performance improvements you can experience with the help of vitamins. RSVP. Free. Canton Ctr Chiropractic Clinic, 6231 N Canton Ctr Rd, Ste 109, Canton. 734-455-6767.

Lightfest 2015 - (thru 12/30; closed 12/25).

7-10pm, M-T & 6-10pm, F-S. Largest & longest drive-through holiday light show in Midwest. $5 vehicle. Hines Park, 7651 Merriman Rd, Westland.WayneCounty.com. 313-224-7600.

WED, DEC 02, 2015 Bio-meridian Assessments – 4-7pm. Juli Johnson will use Bio-meridian computer and give basic mini assessment to determine gluten sensitivity particularly related to wheat, whole wheat and whole grains. Free. Screening limited; RSVP. Better Health Market, 17825 Eureka, Southgate. TheBetterHealthStore.com. 734374-1973.

A Yuletide Tapestry – 4pm. Livonia Symphony Orchestra presents program plus sing-a-long. $ 20 adult. Louis Schmidt Aud., Clarenceville High School, 20155 Middlebelt, Livonia. 734421-1111.

Noel Night – 5-10pm. Over 70 institutions including the DIA, Charles H. Wright Mus, Det Hist Mus, & Det Sci Center open their doors to the public with many special programs & events. Free.

Performances, carriage rides, crafts, community sing-a-long and more. MidtownDetroit.org. 313420-6000.

SUN, DEC 06, 2015 Oyster Bay Wine Tasting – 12-3pm. Tastings presented by Sharon; Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc & Merlot. Better Health Market, 44427 Ann Arbor Rd, Plymouth.

TheBetterHealthStore,com. 734-455-1440.

THUR, DEC 03, 2015 Advance Care Planning – 7pm. Join Dr Jacqueline Mohs to discuss important issue of advance care planning. Seniors & others interested in ACP as a means of anticipating medical decisions that advance illness may require. RSVP. Oakwood Common, 16351 Rotunda, Dearborn. OakwoodCommon.org.

313-253-9597.

Pressure Point Therapy– 7-8pm. Techniques to reduce stress muscle soreness and tension.

Bring a partner. Free. Karl Wellness Center & Chiropractic Clinic, 30935 Ann Arbor Trail, Westland. 734-435-8220.

Essential Exercise- 8-9pm.Learn essential exercises to keep you fit, limber and healthy.

Free. Karl Wellness Center & Chiropractic Clinic, 30935 Ann Arbor Trail, Westland. 734-435-8220.

38 Wayne County Edition

NaturalAwakeningsDetroit.com

TUES, DEC 08, 2015 Why aren’t You Sleeping? – 7:15-8:30pm. Join Dr. Danielle Potter and find out what’s keeping you from getting a good night sleep. Sleep habits, sleep aids, pillows and more will be discussed.

RSVP. Free. Canton Ctr Chiropractic Clinic, 6231 N Canton Ctr Rd, Ste 109, Canton. 734-455-6767.

WED, DEC 09, 2015 Bio-meridian Assessments – 4-7pm. Juli Johnson will use Bio-meridian computer and give basic mini assessment to determine gluten sensitivity particularly related to wheat, whole wheat and whole grains. Free. Screening limited; RSVP. Better Health Market, 42875 Grand River, Novi. TheBetterHealthStore.com. 248- 735-8100.

What is Nutrition Response Testing? – 7pm.

Program presented by Dr Yale. Free. RSVP. TLC Holistic Wellness, 31580 Schoolcraft, Livonia.

TLCHolisticWellness.com. 734-664-0339.

FRI, DEC 11, 2015 Winter Wonderland – 5-8pm.See the sparkle of glimmering lights on the Ford House Grounds. $10. Preregister. Ford House, 1100 Lake Shore, Grosse Pointe Shores. FordHouse.org. 313884-4222.

SAT, DEC 12, 1015 Bittersweet Wreath Class – 10am. Turn an invasive plant into a beautiful wreath decoration. $5 adult, $3. child. Preregister. Oakwoods Metropark, 32911 Willow Rd, Flat Rock.

MetroParks.com/Oakwoods-Metropark/Events.

734-782-3956.

Holiday Open House – 10am-4pm. Join Black Cat Pottery & other MI artists/author for a day of holiday cheer. Meet the artists and take care of your last-minute gift needs with handmade art for the home and garden. 3903 Grayton, Detroit.

BlackCatPottery.com. 313-885-3385.

TUES, DEC 15, 2015 Santa Holiday Show – 6:30pm. Children of all ages can spend an evening with Santa as he tell holiday stories, does magic, and speaks with each child. Also craft opp. Bring cameras. RSVP. Harper Woods Library, 19601 Harper, Harper Woods. HarperWoodsLibrary.org. 313-343-2575.

WED, DEC 16, 2015 Grow Your Business Workshop Series – 8-10am. Secrets to achieving your big audacious goals in 2016. Presented by Cindy Miller – Coach, Trainer, and Leadership Development Facilitator. LinkedIn.com/in/cindymiller20 $5 (includes continental breakfast & workshop) The Guidance Center, 13111 Allen Rd, Southgate.

313-460-0438 Drink Yourself Healthy – 7pm. Water awareness presentation by Dr Yale. Free. RSVP. TLC Holistic Wellness, 31580 Schoolcraft, Livonia.

TLCHolisticWellness.com. 734-664-0339.

THUR, DEC 17, 2015 Family Holiday Fest & Mill Lighting – 4-6pm.

Crafts, Saint Nick visit, sing-a-long, games & prizes plus lighting. Historic Nankin Mills, 33175 Ann Arbor Trail, Westland. WayneCounty.com.

734-261-1990.

Healthy Holiday Classics – Remixed – 5-8pm.

Join Greening of Detroit for a fun-filled class demonstrating healthy holiday dishes from around the world. $5.

Free for Greening of Detroit members & BuildA-Garden members. Scholarships available.

RSVP at education@greeningofdetroit.com. 1418 Michigan Ave, Detroit. 313-285-1256.

MON, DEC 14, 2015 Oyster Bay Wine Tasting – 4-7pm. Tastings presented by Ted; Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc & Merlot.

Better Health Market, 19850 Mack, Grosse Pointe. TheBetterHealthStore,com. 313-8855000.

Monday Night Meditation – 7:15-8pm. Join MJ for evening of meditation & learning techniques to use at home; breath work. All levels welcome. .

RSVP. Free. Canton Ctr Chiropractic Clinic, 6231 N Canton Ctr Rd, Ste 109, Canton. 734-455-6767.

Digestive Health – 7-8:30pm. Learn about the underlying cause of indigestion, acid reflux, and GERD, how low stomach acid affects health and hormones. Free. Karl Wellness Center & Chiropractic Clinic, 30935 Ann Arbor Trail, Westland. Karlwellnesscenter.com 734-425-8220.

SUN, DEC 27, 2015 Meditation – 4-5pm. Will discuss some of the deeper meanings of yoga in dharma talk, pranayama, & more, plus silent practice. Wear loose, comfortable clothing and bring yoga mat and any other meditation props you already own. $10. Yoga Shala & Wellness Center, 25411 W. Warren, Dearborn Heights.CarrieHura.abmp. com. 313-617-9535.

looking ahead SAT, JAN 16, 2016

SUN, MAR 20, 2016

FRI, APRI 29, 2016

Transformative Personal & Prof Dev Retreat – 8am-4:30pm. International Speaker, Social Entrepreneur, Author and Philanthropist, Ava R.Williams is teaming up with PEI Consulting and a dynamic team of industry experts to offer a transformative & empowering daylong, retreat. Early Bird Price $179 until 12/31/15 Regular Price $199 (Breakfast, Lunch & Parking Included).

Comfortable Attire.

Packard Proving Grounds Historic Site, 49965 Van Dyke Ave, Shelby Twp. AvaRWilliams. com/Events or PEInternationalConsulting. com/Events 586-960-5283.

Wedding Show - 1-5pm. The Packard Proving Ground (PPG) is hosting an event showcasing this beautiful historic venue and local wedding vendors, services and products including caterers, party rentals, wedding planners, florists, fashions, decorative accessories, photographers, and more. Free to bridal guests. PPG, 49965 Van Dyke Ave, Shelby Township. PackardEvents.org. For vendor information, contact Mary Anne @ 586-943-5785.

Earth Fair – 9am-4pm. Celebrate and learn about the Earth. Demonstrations, displays, hands- on opps, vendors, entertainment & more. EarthDayFair.com. 810-987-5306.

SAT, APRIL 30, 2016 Earth Fair – 10am-4pm. Celebrate and learn about the Earth. Demonstrations, displays, hands- on opps, vendors, entertainment & more. EarthDayFair.com. 810-987-5306.

natural awakenings

December 2015

39

ongoingcalendar All Calendar events must be received by the 15th of the month prior to publication, and adhere to our guidelines.

Visit NaturalAwakeningsDetroit.com for calendar guidelines and to submit ongoing events.

Canton Communicators Club – 6:30pm. Learn to become a better communicator and improve public speaking abilities! Fellows Creek Golf & Banq, 2936 S. Lotz Rd, Canton.

Donation Yoga -11:45am. All levels welcome in a serene studio with natural light. Be Nice Yoga, 4100 Woodward, Detroit. 313-544-9787.

Poetry Unplugged – 8-11pm. Open mic and acoustic live with host Sky Covington. See/ hear some of Detroit’s most prolific poets and songwriters. $5. Harbor House, 440 Clinton, Detroit. 586-362-7460.

Gentle Basic Yoga – 9:30-10:30am. Have you been wanting to try a yoga class? David Demo teaches this wonderful class that will help get your week off to a great start – all levels welcome.

New students – first week free, then $5 per class afterwards. Strongheart Yoga, 8373 Old 13 Mile Rd, Warren. StrongHeartYoga.com

SWCRC Connections Weekly Networking Group – 8am. 1st, 2nd, 3rd Thur. of month. Free to chamber members, one business per industry.

Non-members can visit two meet. per month.

WCCCD Downriver Campus, EPAC rm 8 (upstairs). 21000 Northline, Taylor.

Hot Yoga – 6-7:30pm. (also Wed, 9-10:30am. and Fri, 4:30-6pm.). Come with an empty stomach; nothing to eat 2 hours prior to class. Drink plenty of water beginning hours before class time. Dress in tank top shirt; dress as if you were at the beach. $ 15 drop-in. Taylor Yoga, 8935 Telegraph Rd, Taylor. 313-292-9642.

SWCRC Connections Weekly Networking Group – 8am. 1st and 3rd Tues of month. Free to Chamber members one business per industry.

Non-members can visit two meetings free.

WCCC-Downriver Campus, 21000 Northline Rd – Conference Room 8, Taylor.

Story Time – 10-11am. Stories for seniors, adults and children. Weekly themes. Jungle Juice Bar, 14929 Charlevoix, Grosse Pointe Park. 313571-3075

Wild Wednesdays – Greenland Markets, best prices on fruits and vegetables.

Locations in Dearborn & Dearborn Heights.

SuperGreenlandMarket.com.

Rotary Club of Detroit – 12-1:30pm. Great local speakers at the weekly lunch meeting. RSVP. $25. Business attire. Detroit Athletic Club, 241 Madison Ave, Detroit. 586-943-5785.

40 Wayne County Edition

Basic Computer Class – 10-11am. Presented by the Harper Woods Library. Call Mrs. Kent for more information. 19601 Harper, Harper Woods.

HarperWoodsLibrary.org. 313-343-2575.

Kid’s Yoga – 5:45-6:45pm. Yoga 4 Peace, 13550 Dix-Toledo Rd, Southgate. 734-282-9642 Ashtanga – 6pm. Yoga Shala & Wellness, 25411 W Warren, Suite D, Dearborn Heights.

313-278-4308

Lunch Time Yoga Vinyasa- 12pm. Level l/ll (A).

Heidi Miklos Yoga 4 Peace, 13550 Dix-Toledo Rd, Southgate. 734-282-9642.

Community Share Dinner & Activities – 6pm.

Join us for a meal, followed by contemporary worship, Bible study, classes, music, cards, and crafts-sign up for dinner each wk, suggested cost $6 per adult, $4 for 4-14, 3 and under free. “paywhat-you-can”. Allen Park Presbyterian Church, 7101 Park Ave, Allen Park. 313-383-0100.

Yoga Foundation – 6-7pm. Workshop is for beginners who are interested in starting Yoga, who are questioning whether they are flexible enough, overweight or just can’t do it. All the basics will be covered including postures, breathing, meditation, relaxation and more. Tips on incorporating into everyday life will be provided. Donation by sliding scale; suggested $96- $120. Pre register.

Yoga 4 Peace, 13550 Dix Toledo Rd, Southgate.

CarrieHura.abmp.com. 313-617-9535.

NaturalAwakeningsDetroit.com

Open Mic – 7-10pm. For musicians, poets, comedians, etc. Sign up starts at 6:30pm. Free.

Always Brewing Detroit, 19180 Grand River, Detroit. 313-879-1102.

Detroit Eastern Market /Detroit – 6am-4pm.

Russell, between Mack & Gratiot. 313-833-9300.

Tai Chi on The Ave – 8-9am. Balance, strength, flexibility & relaxation with Ted Cash. All ages. $5. Please call to confirm schedule. Detroit Fiber Works, 19359 Livernois, Detroit. 313-610-5111.

Mind, Body, Spirit Class – 10am. May be Tai Chi, or QuGong or chair Yoga. Classes are free but a donation is encouraged for the generous instructors who donate their time. Source Booksellers, 4240 Cass, Suite 105, Detroit. 313832-1155.

classifieds To place a listing: 3 lines minimum (or 35 words): 1 month $25; or 3 months for $60 prepaid. Extra words: $1 each: Send check w/ listing by 15th of the month to Healthy Living Detroit, Inc. - Classifieds, P.O. Box 4471 Centerline, MI 48015 or email to Publisher@ NaturalAwakeningsDetroit.com.

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VOLUNTEERS WANTED The Packard Motor Car Foundation, which is a 501c3, is seeking volunteers to assist with many different tasks at the Packard Proving Grounds Historic Site.

THE LODGE KEEPERS GROUP - plans restoration projects, historic staging, holiday decorating, cleaning, preserving and much more.

Visit the Facebook page listed under ‘Packard Lodge Keepers’ or email LodgeKeeper4@gmail. com PACKARD FLEET GROUP - maintains the fleet of classic Packards onsite at the Proving Grounds, mechanical repairs and routine maintenance plus detailing cars to prep for displays and events.

Contact Steve encizmas@yahoo.com PACKARD GARDEN GROUP - plan landscaping and garden spaces for this 14 acre site, plus study historic images to help determine the best way to recreate the landscaping look on the current site.

Contact Mary Anne @ 586-943-5785 PACKARD SPECIAL EVENT VOLUNTEERS - supervise weddings and special events that take place at the Packard Proving Grounds Historic Site, and assist as needed. It’s fun to be an important part of someone’s very special day!

Contact Steve encizmas@yahoo.com for more information, and visit PackardEvents.org to view the events calendar.

PACKARD MARKETING & OUTREACH - facilitate communications and community outreach for the historic site and events.

Brainstorm and explore new ways to connect through social media and partnering with other businesses to share the historic story and spread the word. Contact Mary Anne @ 586-943-5785

WISH LIST HABITAT FOR HUMANITY DETROIT WISH LIST Please contact us if you would like to donate an item from this list. Habitat for Humanity Detroit is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Your contribution is tax deductable in accordance with the Internal Revenue Code. HabitatDetroit.org.

313- 521-6691

• • • •

Office Supplies Writeable CDs Sharpies/Markers Laptop Computers Copier Paper

• • • • • • • •

Volunteer Needs Disinfecting Wipes Sunscreen Lunches/Snacks for Volunteers Paper Products Hand Sanitizer Bottled Water First Aid Kits Duct Tape

• • • • • • • • •

Construction Power Tools Pick-up Trucks Fork Lift Hand Tools Table Saw Roto-tiller Appliance Dolly Pallet Jack Commercial Landscape Services

• • • • •

ReStore Shopping Carts Flatbed Carts Kitchen Cabinets Upholstered Furniture New and Used Appliances

FREE WORKSHOPS:

FREE CHAIR MASSAGE

Pressure Pt/ Exercises Dec. 3 ~ 7p Digestive Health Dec. 17 ~ 7p

at the time of your FREE

CONSULTATION!

R.S.V.P. 734.425.8220

Medicare Guidelines Apply. Exp. 12/31/15

Karl Wellness Center & Chiropractic Clinic, P.C. 30935 Ann Arbor Trail Westland 734-425-8220

New PEMF Therapy!

··· Pain Relief ··· Allergy Reduction & Elimination ··· Hormone Balancing Erchonia “Healing” Cold Laser Therapy (LLLT) ··· Erchonia Ionic Detoxification Nutritional Consultation with ZYTO Bio-communication Technology ··· Muscle Response Testing Herbal and Homeopathic Remedies ··· Whole Food Supplements and much more !!!

DR. WILLIAM H. KARL, D.C. CERTIFIED WELLNESS DOCTOR

www.KarlWellnessCenter.com natural awakenings

DR. JACOB H. KARL, D.C. APPLIED KINESIOLOGIST

December 2015

41

communityresourceguide Want to reach readers who are health and wellness focused?

Learn how to list your services in the Community Resource Guide.

Call us at 313-221-9674

AMISH FARMERS

HEALTH FOOD STORES ZERBO’S

OUR FARMS 2 YOU Mio, MI

Beef, chicken, lamb and pork products plus eggs, maple syrup, maple sugar and cream, honey, granola, jams, bread, pies, cookies and hand made quilts and rugs delivered every Saturday 10-2pm at the Packard Proving Grounds Historic Site. Visit OurFarms2You.com to place your order or call Doug Henry 810-569-5775 and ask about our Herd Share program for fresh milk

34164 Plymouth Rd. Livonia, MI 48150 734-427-3144 Zerbos.com

INTERIOR DESIGN HURON ST. CLAIR CONCEPTS huronstclairconcepts.com 586-871-5774 kr@huronstclairconcepts.com

Our firm specializes in interior revision, event production and editorial services; personal and corporate. We analyze, recommend and implement creative solutions to meet your requirements. Create . Consult . Coordinate.

Wall to Wall supplements Organic products & produce Frozen & Refrigerated foods Groceries, Teas, Bulk Foods Natural Chemical Free Pet Products Mineral Based Cosmetics Chemical Free Personal Care products Raw Living & Sprouted Food Section Fitness Section and more.

and dairy products.

HISTORICAL SITE CHIROPRACTIC WELLNESS PACKARD PROVING GROUNDS HISTORIC SITE

CANTON CENTER CHIROPRACTIC CLINIC

49965 Van Dyke Ave Shelby Twp, MI 48317 (bet 22 & 23 Mile Rds) 586-943-5785 PackardEvents.org

Serving the community for 26 years 6231 N Canton Center Rd #109, Canton, MI 48187 734-455-6767 CantonCenterChiropractic.com We offer Chiropractic and nutritional services to help you achieve optimal wellness.

Additional services include Massage, Reflexolgy, Reiki, Kinesio-Taping and educational workshops. Let Dr. Robert Potter, Jr. and Associates be “Your Natural Health Care Providers”.

A MAN NAMED HOOPER Amannamedhooper@gmail.com 586-944-9251 A man named Hooper is a music duo comprised of guitar and drums/ percussion which offers a unique, distinct and distinguished sound. Band members John Aman and Walter Hooper have been playing music together for two years and offer a wide variety of musical styles; covers to original material, catering to all audiences.

A man named Hooper has played throughout the Metro Detroit area and can be contacted for private bookings and special events.

HOLISTIC HEALTH

EDUCATION

NATURES REMEDIES DR DENISE ACTON, N.D.

NATUROPATHIC SCHOOL OF THE HEALING ARTS

734-645-4434 NaturesRemediesDR.com

NaturopathicSchoolofAnnArbor.net annarbormassageschool.com DIPLOMA TRAINING PROGRAMS in Naturopathy (ND), Massage Therapy, and Medicinal Herbal Studies. 1-2.5 years duration. naturopathicschool@gmail.com

42 Wayne County Edition

Great rustic event space for weddings, social events and more, available year round.

This beautiful automotive history site w/Albert Kahn designed buildings is situated on 14 acres & includes multiple buildings different size groups.

Free historic tours every Sat @ 11am, call to reserve - especially in the winter.

MUSIC

Certified naturopathic doctor offers acupuncture treatments, nutritional counseling, massage raindrop therapy, and biomeridian testing for a variety of issues.

Advanced training in nutrition response testing for food sensitivities, chemicals, heavy metals, or virus, bacteria, fungus or parasites. She works out of several clinics in Ann Arbor and Brighton. Call to schedule an appt today to get your health back on track.

NaturalAwakeningsDetroit.com

RETREAT CENTERS SONG OF THE MORNING YOGA RETREAT CENTER 9607 Sturgeon Valley Rd, Vanderbilt, MI 49795 989-983-4107 office@songofthemorning.org SongoftheMorning.org Find spiritual refreshment amongst 800-acres of natural beauty for your own personal retreat or participate in workshops, yoga classes, meditations, or Sunday Service.

Accommodations and gourmet vegetarian meals available.

communityresourceguide WELLNESS CENTERS Gratitude is the sign of noble souls. ~Aesop

SPIRITUALITY ONE SPACE LESLIE BLACKBURN Dearborn, MI 313.269.6719 OneSpaceConnected.com MysterySchooloftheTempleArts.com Illuminating the Path of Self-Realization through A r t , Yo g a , S a c r e d G e o m e t r y, S a c r e d Sexuality & more!

Individual and couple coaching is available in addition to group classes, workshops and retreats.

Browse the website for original artwork and music.

Prints, music downloads and commission pieces are also available.

DR. WILLIAM H. KARL, D.C., CERTIFIED WELLNESS DOCTOR KARL WELLNESS CENTER & CHIROPRACTIC CLINIC 30935 Ann Arbor Trail Westland, MI 48185 734-425-8220 KarlWellnessCenter.com Certified Wellness Doctor with over 30 years experience, Dr. Wi l l i a m H . K a r l , D . C . , i s dedicated to helping his patients obtain optimal health- utilizing whole food supplements, herbs, homeopathic remedies, nutritional consultation, allergy elimination/reprogramming techniques, detoxification programs, advanced chiropractic care, cold laser, and Neurological Relief Te c h n i q u e s f o r F i b r o m y a l g i a a n d p a i n management.

OLIVE SEED

A hub for wellness & social change Olive-Seed.com Latricia Wright vitality@Olive-Seed.com (313) 757-0993 We provide affordable products and transformational workshops, emphasizing nutrition and lifestyle planning for holistic betterment. We offer a unique service that indicates the body’s biochemical balance and state of general health. We also feature customized wellness planning, custom herbal tea blends and homemade beauty products that offer a non-toxic and sustainable addendum to our programs. Call today and maximize your health potential!

YOGA YOGA 4 PEACE

13550 Dix-Toledo Rd., Southgate Mi 48195 y4peace.org Yoga 4 Peace is a non-profit yoga studio that offers classes on a donation basis. We have a wide variety of classes for every level. We offer Classes, Workshops, Retreats and Teacher Training.

Christmas is a season not only of rejoicing but of reflection. ~Winston Churchill

natural awakenings

December 2015

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49965 Van Dyke Ave Shelby Township, MI 48317

T

Are you looking for a unique historical venue for your next special event?

his beautiful automotive history site is situated on 14 acres and features Albert Kahn designed buildings, and is a lovely venue for weddings and special occasions.

The large Repair Garage Room can accommodate up to 300 guests, and the smaller Lodge Garage room is great for smaller meetings and celebrations.

Site Tours by Appointment.

y Photograph April Dietz

Contact: Mary Anne, Event Coordinator 586-943-5785 cell/text • maryannedemo@gmail.com www.PackardEvents.org Packard Proving Grounds Historic Site

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NaturalAwakeningsDetroit.com