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Southern Oakland County May/June 2015
Lov e yo u r Life IMPROVE YOUR HEALTH, MIND, AND EMOTIONS
wiLd at heart
CHIC SwIMwEAR
Bragging rights
GIfTS fOR MOM
Bonded in matrimony and mission
DR. PARTHA & KALI NANDI
Improve Your Face S Improve Your Body S Improve Your Health
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MY Magazine | 3
contributors
Inspire
Inspiration can be found all around us, a pop of color, a subtle shadow, a special person ... we never know when that divine influence will appear. Learn what inspires the MY editorial staff to create and inform.
Steve Ragland
photographer
My inspiration to create comes from the beauty of the souls that I work with. There is something so humbling about watching the process of a soul unfold during a photo shoot -- a certain vulnerability that as both an artist and a human, I cherish greatly. However, this is only the beginning; the true inspiration comes from the finished product and the excitement that comes with transforming this into something tangible, for others to then become inspired by as well.
4 | MY Magazine
Jessica Kocik stylist
Being in a creative field, I love to be inspired! Every season I load up on all of my favorite fashion magazines and set aside time to sit down and tear out the pages of my favorite looks to inspire me for my clients’ style, my own, and photo shoots. Period movies and art fuel my mind as well and since I’m a huge fan of urban style, people watching in different cities helps me gain fresh views on fashion and what works on individuals. I love when my senses are awakened it allows me to do my job with more creativity!
Angelique Gonzalez sales/ marketing
Living life with purpose is of utmost importance to me. Beneath this resides a relationship in which I seek God first. I find that my true inspiration stems from this love and a calling that only He has placed in my soul to listen, learn and connect with others, in a genuine effort to make a positive contribution. Whether it is through the “work” that I do, or the encounters and experiences that I may have; it is this relationship, and all of the greatest good that manifest from it, that inspire me every day.
Jennifer Lareau-Gee
Jennifer Knutson
Barbara Krajenke
copy editor
art director
Mary Meldrum
My past inspires me to be better in the future. My parents inspire me to achieve more than I thought possible. My fiance’ inspires me to do the impossible.
As an art director/ graphic designer, I find myself glued to my computer screen for what seems like days at a time; it’s a part of my job, after all. Some might think that I find inspiration through other publications or social media websites like Pintrest (which I love.) The truth is that I’m inspired most when I step away from the screen.
Children with their fearless exploration and boundless curiosity are a perpetual source of inspiration. But it is the people who take bold risks to help complete strangers who are stunningly inspirational. Like aid workers who brave civil unrest, harsh weather, deadly diseases and extreme personal discomfort to help those in distress in foreign lands. I am inspired and deeply moved by their selfless acts of kindness. They raise the bar for the rest of us and I’m sure that heaven holds a special place for these remarkable angels.
Inspiration is a state of being, it does not find you, but rather you must be open to it. Inspiration is the absence of complacency igniting passions beyond the person. It is the desire to explore the layers of the minute details to the bigger picture — love or lack love, desperation or hope, success or failure, peace or violence. Inspiration is the motivation to understand all creation and surroundings in all of its elements.
Whether I’m going for a walk, chatting with my rapidly aging children, or just finding a bit of rare silence, it’s always a breath of fresh air. Inspiration, truly, is everywhere.
www.mymagazineoakland.com
writer
writer
FINANCIALLY EMPOWERING
Women
hair by: luigi bruni makeup by: haley cassar
Solving problems you don’t know you have, in ways you can understand.
Patrice L. J. SincLair CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ CERTIFIED ESTATE PLANNER™ Senior Vice President, Investments Investment Management Consultant
Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Inc. owns the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and federally registered in the U.S., which it awards to individuals who successfully complete CFP Board’s initial and ongoing certification requirements.
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MY Magazine | 5
from the publisher
The meaning of success.
Photography by Steve Ragland Photography Assistant, Robert Olinski Styled by Jessica Kocik Make up artist Brandie Brancheau
Everyone has their own meaning of success, your challenge is to understand exactly what success means to you. If you find it difficult to define your version of success, you are not alone. Figuring out what is important to you is usually a good place to start. Our cover couple, Dr. Partha and Kali Nandi, have found huge success in their marriage and their work. They create goals that result in true satisfaction, not just money or power. They started with what is important to them, their relationship, family, community, and beyond. Our inspiring women, Lorie has found success in serving at risk youths, Anne Marie finds great success in her work through her organization Choices Detroit respectively. To them, it’s all about giving time, patience, and love. Pam, the MY makeover feature, found success at the hands of our experts Yiannis and Aferdita; she found the look she’s been patiently waiting for.
Success isn’t
just about what you accomplish in your life, it’s about what you inspire others to do. Unknown
For some, they may not experience personal success, their success comes from inspiring others and watching their accomplishments grow, much like a parent does with their child. There’s a Greek proverb that states, “A society grows great when old men plant trees whose shade they shall never sit in.” If you had all the money and time in the world, what would you do? How would you spend your time: volunteering, pursue a hobby, or try and solve a problem? Something to think about ...
Darlene
Darlene Douglas – Publisher mymagazineoaklanddarlene@gmail.com
6 | MY Magazine
www.mymagazineoakland.com
HEALTHY GLOW THROUGH SAFE TANNING By Margot Kohler During my extensive European skincare education in Germany and France, the positive and negative effects of sun exposure were of utmost importance in my training. Safe tanning practices were explored, while the necessity of teaching our clients to avoid the imminent damage of the sun’s rays was emphasized.
What would change if you really took care of yourself?
Understanding the capability of the sun is necessary to protect the skin from the potential damage. I stress to my clients how essential it is for the skin to be prepared for sun exposure. Improperly nourished skin will only dry out the dermis layer, while causing sun spots and wrinkles to develop. The skin cannot achieve a healthy glow if the skin suffers from a burn. Short intervals of sun exposure over a short period of time are the best method for the skin to attain a sun kissed tone without the immediate redness or darkness from damaging sunburn. I recommend three steps for proper skin preparation, as well as patience, as essential ingredients for a healthy glow. Three Key Steps to Achieving a Safe and Healthy Glow: •
Accelerator–a tanning accelerator should be applied prior to sun exposure. Most people are not accustomed to using an accelerator product. Lathering an accelerator with the proper essential oil ingredients prepares the skin to absorb the sun’s rays. The formulation of the essential oils will drastically increase hydration, resulting in a better tan.
•
Sunscreen–the proper sunscreen with adequate strength determined by one’s skin type is paramount. The dermis layers are subject to sun damage on a daily basis, whether the sun is shining or there are clouds in the sky.
•
After Sun Care–the skin requires proper treatment upon sun exposure. An after sun cream or gel is essential to nourish the skin after a day in the sun. After sun products also help to maintain a healthy glow by adding moisture to the skin.
Tanning maintenance is required to achieve a longer-lasting healthy glow. Once you have a healthy tan, use a bath gel or body scrub 2 times per week with a body moisturizer to increase the longevity of the skin’s healthy glow. Try a self-tanner such as Declèor Paris or St. Tropez, which has a moisturizing activator and a self-bronzing color component to enhance a safe tan or to create the look of a tan. Self-tanning products can be used on all skin types throughout all seasons. Sun products help to protect the skin against the damaging rays of the sun. A thin layer of sun protection applied daily is absolutely mandatory, even if one is not in the sun. Use high protection sunscreen, SPF 30 or above, especially if you are sun sensitive. Be sun sensible: protect yourself and your children. Remember, between the hours of 11am and 3pm, the skin is more likely to burn because the sun’s rays are fully in action. Prevent further damage with basic hydrating facials, 2-3 days consecutively, over a 3-4 week period. Adopting the proper sun preparation and protection regime to your beauty routine will ensure the skin is adequately protected from the damaging UVA & UVB rays. Remember, after sun gel must be used daily après soleil [after sun]. Moderation of sun exposure, sun protection, and quality tan enhancing products are the keys to healthy glowing skin.
Everything. Your Skin is a key to your overall well-being. Sun exposure not only ages you prematurely, but can cause significant damage to your health. Allow the skin care experts at Margot European Day Spa to prepare your skin so you can enjoy the outdoors without risking your beauty or your health.
SPECIAL OFFER: 20% off Monday through Thursday on facials or sunless airbrush tanning treatments.* *Some conditions apply. Please ask when scheduling.
101 TOWNSEND STREET, BIRMINGHAM, MI 48009 MARGOTS.COM • 248.642.3770
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MY Magazine | 7
MY
On the Cover
m i c h i g a n
May/June 2015 MY Magazine
MY
M i c h i g a n
®
Southern Oakland County May/June 2015
www.mymagazineoakland.com
Lov e yo u r Life IMPROVE YOUR HEALTH, MIND, AND EMOTIONS
Publisher • Darlene Douglas
wiLd at heart
Art Director • Jennifer Knutson
CHIC SwIMwEAR
Copy Editor • Jennifer Lareau-Gee
Bragging rights GIfTS fOR MOM
Bonded in matrimony and mission May/June 2015 Volume 5
DR. PARTHA & KALI NANDI
Marketing • Angelique Gonzalez Photographer • Steve Ragland Contributing Photographer • Robert Olinski Fashion Editor • Jessica Kocik
<<
Photography by Steve Ragland Photography Assistant, Robert Olinski Fashion Editor Jessica Kocik Hair and Makeup Megan Foley, Skytique Boutique and Beauty Bar Grosse Pointe Park Alex Teih navy floral dress, $3,490 Erin Cole necklace, $480 Carol Dorsey Walker purse, $950, Roma Sposa Birmingham, 248.723.4300 White shirt and Navy tie courtesy of President Tuxedo, Birmingham, 248.594.0800
V
Inspiring Women
Nominate your Oakland County’s inspiring woman! Each month, women of Oakland County will be featured in “MY” magazine. Here is your opportunity to let us know who they are. Go to our website, mymagazineoakland.com to nominate.
V
Prepare to be pampered If you would like to be considered to sit in Yiannis’ illustrious chair at Salon Edge in West Bloomfield and have him color, cut, crop and coif your hair, email a photo and tell us all about you along with your name, address and telephone number to mymagazineoaklanddarlene@gmail.com.
8 | MY Magazine
®
Mary Meldrum Adria DeAngelis Veit Barbara Krajenke
Contributors >> Judy Lipson Holly CaSaroll
<<
Dawn Bause Elaine Grohman John Schalter
Contact Us >>
Dado Publishing LLC/MY Magazine 55 East Long Lake Road | Troy, Mi 48085 Telephone: 248.561.3963 | Email: mymagazineoaklanddarlene@gmail.com Web: mymagazineoakland.com
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MY magazine makes every effort to provide accurate information in advertising, editorial content and placement: however, we cannot make any claims as to the accuracy of information provided by advertisers or editorial contributors and will accept no responsibility or liability for inaccurate information or placement. No content can be duplicated without the permission of Dado Publishing LLC MY Magazine is a Trademark of MY Publishing LLC
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MY Magazine | 9
c o n t e n t s 14
MY life Contributor Page Publisher Notes Serendipity
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20 Inspiring Women 21 ADHD in Adulthood 28 The Time is Now 30 MY Makeover 34 Life Coach The Power of Play
36 Finding Your Doctor 38
48
14
Bragging Rights Gifts Mom will Love Love Your Life
10 | MY Magazine
20
Bathing Suits and Cover-ups
on the cover Bonded in Matrimony and Mission Dr. Partha & Kali Nandi
12
Rock the Season
42
Wild at Heart Chic Swimwear
4 6
Refreshing Summertime Salads
48
MY spotlight
24
32
Inspiration Uncorked
42
Crave
www.mymagazineoakland.com
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40
ask the expert By Holly CaSaroll
Q
As spring is here, my wrinkles and sagging skin are now making me feel old. I don’t want surgery, and I can’t take off work. Is there anything I can do?
Y
es, and welcome to the modern age of beauty where, what was once only imaginable, is now a reality. With recent advances, plastic surgery is slowly decreasing and non-invasive procedures are skyrocketing. You can now diminish wrinkles, and tighten your skin, all without missing a day of work. It is not new that lasers have been proven to diminish wrinkles, such as erbium and CO2, but you need a week or more social downtime, and there are more possible side effects. I will highlight four treatments that are the most advanced technologies in the world to transform an aged appearance, with little to no social downtime.
FRACTIONAL RADIOFREQUENCY
The science on Fractional Radiofrequency is well established to help both wrinkles and skin tightening without downtime. The problem is there are so many devices that don’t get to the right temperature for collagen contraction, or it is not customizable enough to get to multiple depths in the tissue. The best device I have found that is non-ablative (keeps the epidermis intact) is the INFINI. We now have a no downtime device that can create dramatic changes in aging, elasticity, and acne scarring.
out there. Radiofrequency can tighten, but it doesn’t go as deep so I like it more for maintaining or for those where Ultrasound is out of their budget. Ultherapy is the treatment that is #1 in the world, and #1 voted by consumers by New Beauty magazine for noninvasive procedures. The best part is, that you only need to do it once a year, so even though it is an investment, it is low maintenance,
HYBRID LASER
A very recent breakthrough in esthetic medicine has been with the Halo Laser, as it is the worlds first hybrid fractional laser, using two lasers in one, to simultaneously diminish a lifetime of sun damage in just a few treatments. If you can allow yourself to peel over the weekend (peeling is only on day 3 and 4), then you can do this treatment. Very noticeable results in texture, lines, pigment, and pores, can be seen by your first treatment.
FOCUSED ULTRASOUND
Focused ultrasound has been one of the biggest breakthroughs in our field in the last 5 years. You can get deep tissue tightening while simultaneously keeping the epidermis (outer layer of skin) intact, so when you leave, your look the same, with no social downtime. As the only FDA cleared device to lift the brow, jaw line, and neck, it is the most advanced facelift alternative
INJECTABLES
We all know about Botox, or Xeomin (like preservative-free Botox), to stop expression lines, and fillers to create volume by filling in lines, creases, hollows, and scars. You can look 10 years younger in 10 minutes, just with injectables alone. Key is to not get too much, as blow fish faces, are not natural or beautiful. Holly CaSaroll, Founder of FACE Skincare~Medical~Wellness An Integrative Skin and Wellness Clinic 248.663.0161 facebeautyscience.com
www.mymagazineoakland.com
MY Magazine | 11
Serendipity By Adria DeAngelis Veit
L
ife is precious! We spend so much of our lives planning or, at other times, not planning enough. At times, we are posed with the questions, “What actually is enough?” When is it enough? Regardless of the type of work we do, we spend time, numerous hours and minutes of the day, filling our minds as to what comes next. It’s the fine tuning of an art form called “multi-tasking.” This type of art form is still yet to be found in galleries as a featured or popular exhibit. Some people strive to not multi-task at all. This is an artful attribute unto itself to develop such specific focus. However, the true task is not just learning how to curb this type of behavior, but most of all learn to succinctly quiet our minds down to ignore the frenetic process of it all. Yes, this is the time for us to create a plan. This type of plan is so important due to the fact that, consciously or unconsciously, our minds are on multi-tasking mode. It’s the “WiFi” of our brains, constantly allowing new information to enter only to cause confusion in our brain waves. There are so many ways of creating a specific plan that is beneficial to our own being. At times, planning can be so difficult; we find ourselves in a state of procrastination. Yet, at times the plan is developed with the greatest of ease and comfort. Our planning skills, believe or not, are affected by the weather. Living in Michigan, as the temperature and seasons change, especially as the days become warmer, our moods begin to lift. Springtime blossoms enhance our thoughts of hot summer days to come. We want to plan and fill our calendars with exciting plans of fun times spent with family and friends, events with great hope that they will be accompanied by the glorious rays of the sun. Even if you’re not a sports enthusiast, we begin to hear those two magical words “spring training.” They are announced on the radio, sports newscasts, and appear on the front page
12 | MY Magazine
of sports pages around the globe. To those individuals who are immersed in the sports world, “spring training” ignites endorphins of joy throughout their entire bodies. Opposite of the joyous endorphins that sports enthusiasts experience, there are two additional words associated with springtime that confuse the endorphins in our bodies, and do not necessarily send joy throughout, spring cleaning! Although, these to different spring events seem like polar opposites, when it comes to our mind, body, and soul they are the best of friends and should always unite. It is so important when planning the events in our lives that we take time to plan and re-plan the routine events in our life. Additionally, we need to look past the routines and plan for those moments that keep our mind, body, and soul in spring training and spring cleaning modes at all times. When we train our minds and cleanse our body and soul, we are in the healthiest state of planning our lives. It’s the planning of inner perfection that will take us to the next level and eradicate the need to multi-task. The only task at hand will be the joy in creating the perfect plan. The plan that makes our lives spectacular! Continue to keep your mind, body, and soul in “spring training” mode all year long along with planning your next personal “spring cleaning” event. It will be the most fun event you will schedule for the entire year, better yet YOUR LIFE! Never forget how precious YOUR life is! Stay in the game!
Adria DeAngelis Veit Intuitive Medium Adria.Believe@gmail.com
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MY Magazine | 13
MY | trends
Wild AT HEART
Chic Swimwear That Will Start a Heatwave
Photography by Steve Ragland Photo Assistant Tony Tam Stylist Kristen Demko Makeup and Hair Julianne Joi Model, Katia Shot on location at Trendy Surfaces Store Cosa Mesa, CA Vivaldi One-piece, $174 Aerin Rose, aerinrose.com 14 | MY Magazine
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Beach Riot beachriot.com Gold cuff, Macys.com
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Bikini, Beach Riot, beachriot.com Gold cover-up, Macyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Necklace and Cuff, Macys.com 16 | MY Magazine
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MY Magazine | 17
Stanza bikini Top $90, bottom, $82 Aerin Rose, aerinrose.com
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MY Magazine | 19
MY | favorite things
Rock the Season
Beautiful Bathing Suits & Captivating Cover-ups Fashion Editor Jessica Kocik | Photographer Robert Olinski
1. Red bathing suit, Profile by gottex, $96, $50. 2. Mint embellished cover up, CHRISTIANE LARUE, $395. 3. Dark pink with gold accents cover-up, CHRISTIANE LARUE, $499. 4. Floral bikini, FANTASIE swim, $72, $52. 5. White lace cover-up, CHRISTIANE LARUE, $395. 6. Navy and white crochet bikini, Panache Swim, $62, $40. All bathing suits from Bra~vo Intimates Custom Bras & Swimwear, 517 S Washington Ave, Royal Oak 248.582.7286. All Cover-ups from CHRISTIANE LARUE, Birmingham and Grosse Pointe, 248.792.6140.
20 | MY Magazine
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INSPIRING Sponsored by
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Photography by Robert Olinski Art Direction by Steve Ragland Fashion Editor Jessica Kocik By Barbara Krajenke and Darlene Douglas
y
vito, Hair by Tess Bradle
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MY Magazine | 21
INSPIRING Sponsored by
Women
Ann-Marie Neme
Clothing and accessories provided by Evereve Village of Rochester Hills 248.375.9400
A
nn-Marie Neme, president of Choices Detroit, co-founded the organization when she noticed a division between women.
volunteer needs and provisions, and working with organizations that aid the elderly, closed head injury patients, women, and the homeless.
Ann-Marie experienced this disconnect when she decided to leave her 15-year career as professor and head of student research at the University of Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry to devote herself fulltime to her family. She received mixed reactions from women, both supportive and judgmental. “It was hard to reinvent myself and rewrite my job description. It took a lot of work to look at it as the most important job in the world.”
Ann-Marie believes that all women have something to give: inspiration, kindness, tenderness, and compassion. “I think women really blossom when they are other centered. I believe women’s hearts were created to love, to give love, and to receive love.”
“It is important for women to support one another because we are uniquely feminine.” Choices Detroit currently includes 250 women of all backgrounds united by aiding other nonprofits with 22 | MY Magazine
Being a professional over-achiever, and mother of eight children, Ann-Marie learned to embrace the ups and downs of life by relishing the moments of joy and mischief of a full household, including Bubba, a Chesapeake Bay Retriever, and Lola, the gecko. Ann-Marie revives her spirit through yoga, being open to life, and making her husband laugh. “Faith is my cornerstone, I have a strong knowledge that God loves me. I feel very loved, I carry that with me. It is important in life to find the people that really want the best for you.”
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L
orie Miles Howard’s nurturing spirit was evident at a young age when she helped to take care of her mentally challenged brother Stanley.
Lorie Miles Howard
“He wanted to be seen, he wanted to be heard, and most importantly, he wanted to know that he mattered.” Lorie’s experience with Stanley, along with the love and compassion of her mother, guided Lorie into the career of social work, currently working as a social service specialist at the Wayne County Juvenile Detention Agency.
“If we are to have real peace in the world, we have to begin with our children.” Lorie serves at-risk youths by instilling in them a sense of purpose and belonging. “Even though they are detained, they have to have some form of hope and courage. The biggest challenge for youth today is they’re not loved. They seek family within the community; they seek community in the streets. They’re not bad, just a product of their environments.” Her goal outside of work is to open a facility to help young women experience to nurture self-confidence and etiquette in young women using her 25 years of modeling, helping to raise their self-esteem. She resides in Taylor with her daughter Katherine, where she restores herself through gardening, nature walks, and a lot of prayer. Lorie believes no matter who you are, it is important to “reach for things that uplift us. You are important, you do mean something to the world; there is a gift, I honestly have to say, in everyone.”
INSPIRING Clothes and accessories provided by Lane Bryant, Village of Rochester Hills, 248.375.0127
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MY | life
By Mary Meldrum Photography by Steve Ragland Photography Assistant, Robert Olinski Fashion Editor Jessica Kocik
bonded in matrimony and mission
24 | MY Magazine
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d
DR. PARTHA & KALI NANDI Several years ago, Partha and Kali Nandi fell deeply in love with each other, and they are still falling. This is a love story that started with two people and now stretches across the country and to 80 other nations. The Nandis now share three children, a medical practice, a popular TV show that airs across the globe, a deep spiritual connection, Ask Dr. Nandi Charities, and as much time together as they can possibly manage. Where others might falter in the constant presence of their partner, Partha and Kali feed on each other’s boundless spiritual energy. While there was the usual romance and physical attraction, it is that spiritual connection that provided the spark for this love story, and it is the flame that burns the brightest for them today.
the production and distribution of that show, and they own that content. The Nandis have their own production company with their own distributors. They gush about their talented team and the instrumental roles that each of them play in orchestrating the show, their charity work, and events.
This is a love story that has propelled them to great heights in their personal and professional lives, where they take on a shared purpose and vision for a better life and a better world. It is an energy that feeds and sustains them, and they have scaled it to become force multipliers.
“The best part of our show is that I get to work with Kali,” reveals Partha. “Together we are clearly better than the sum of our parts because we have synergy, and the key to that is respect.”
You rarely experience a couple so thoroughly bonded in matrimony and in mission. Partha and Kali have built their relationship on an enviable platform of mutual love and profound respect, where discourse and action embody their deep connection and calling. They speak from the heart and they live from the heart. And just as their marriage is a platform for access to their combined love, passion, and family, the Ask Dr. Nandi Charities and Ask Dr. Nandi Show are the expansion of that platform to include everyone. By everyone, I mean people throughout Africa, India, and Indonesia tuning in to access information about wellness, health, exercise, mindfulness, and spirituality. Topics include things that impact people’s lives every day, like diabetes, nutrition, near-death experience, discrimination, massage therapy, HIV, organ donation, medical marijuana, even how to cultivate happiness. While Partha has a full time medical practice where he works as a gastroenterologist and internist, Kali has her hands full with the children and works full time as the show’s producer. They are in constant communication and intimately collaborate to pull everything off, giving a lot of credit to their small, nimble team for seamless accomplishment of it all. “When we thought about how we could make a difference in the world, we thought a nice extension would be taking what I do in the office and expanding it to help others,” explains Partha. “What if we could reach ten people, ten thousand people, or a million people to help them live better lives? That was the birth of our show, Ask Dr. Nandi.” The Ask Dr. Nandi Show is an hour-long show that is devoted to one topic. The show airs in 85 million homes in the U.S. as well as 80 countries. It is the only independent production doing this. Most TV shows you see have a studio that backs
This is not an infomercial type of platform. The aim of the show is not to sell you anything. This is an authentic offering of valuable health and lifestyle information to empower people to take control of their health and life. Dr. Nandi’s mission is to encourage others to be their own “Health Hero,” and to diminish preventable disease around the world.
We all have a certain level of access to health care. Ask Dr. Nandi helps to remove the final barriers to health care with knowledge that can carry someone from good health to great vitality. Understanding that the ultimate goal for us all is to live happy and healthy lives, the Nandis wake up every day with the intention to help at least one other person achieve that. The Ask Dr. Nandi Show delivers solutions that empower people with knowledge. While Americans might have more access to health care and knowledge, the same information is sometimes a revelation for certain communities, villages, and people in less fortunate areas of the world, where access to clinicians and medical information is very limited. Ask Dr. Nandi Charities are a big part of the Nandis’ work and include the Food Bank of Eastern Michigan, Nationwide Children’s Hospital and their Miracle Kids, The American Lung Association, Habitat for Humanity, the Jamaican Ministry of Health, The Detroit Achievement Academy, Covenant House of Michigan, The Coalition on Temporary Shelter (COTS), and Alternatives for Girls. “There are not enough hours in the day for all the ideas we share around visions and mission. All I want to do is be with Partha and talk about the things that we dream about doing,” describes Kali. “It’s family, it’s the charity, which is a huge part of what we do, certainly the show, and of course the talks and the tour. It would be a lot easier to simply have him go to work every day and I stay home and manage the house and the kids,” shares Kali. “What we do is a ton of work. We have
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MY Magazine | 25
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a united vision, mission, and passion.” Partha adds, “It wouldn’t be fulfilling without all that. We live and work together and it’s all part of the same mission.” It is clear to see how they respect and value each other above all else, and how this has calibrated their relationship and translated into their value proposition in everything they touch. It provides rich context for how this enterprising duo stays united and connected to each other in their busy days. Dr. Nandi also sponsors a program that he calls Be Your Own 26 | MY Magazine
Health Hero, where he talks about how to use your awareness, your body’s sense of movement, sense of purpose, fitness, and nutrition to live not only a longer life, but a more meaningful and revitalized life. He has traveled abroad to Australia, Jamaica, and India to share his “Health Hero” program, and plans to travel to France and Africa as well. Dr. Nandi brings the message that health, longevity, and purpose are intricately tied together. He doesn’t just talk about it, he and Kali live it every day. That purpose adds
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years to one’s life. Spirituality and mindfulness are the drivers behind all the work this couple does. “Success is a consequence of our actions, it is not what is driving us,” clarifies Partha. Referring to the Be Your Own Health Hero Tour, Kali adds, “Partha does the speaking tour, reaching out to people to talk with them about how to be their own advocate and live their best life.” She says, “This is about being in the driver’s seat of your life. Seek your own answers, information and better health.” The Nandis want to empower patients to understand how the body works. They are educating people about the underlying reasons their bodies respond to stress, medications, nutrition, cigarettes, and other things that impact everybody. Raised in Calcutta, India, Partha Nandi grew up in a place where children would come to his door begging for food. In speaking with him on a personal level,
it is clear that his perspective on humanity was formed from those early years and the hundreds of heartbreaks every time he answered the door to find another hungry young child. “We tell our kids how lucky they are to have running water and food every day. We want them to understand how very little the vast majority of the world has. It’s difficult to convey if you have been born here and never really seen or experienced that level of poverty,” Partha expresses. “The reason this is so important is because empathy is an amazing power.” Fortunate to be gifted with the opportunity to elevate their own circumstances, the Nandis understand and are grateful for their opportunities and never forget those less fortunate. Every day they go forward with the devout intention to help others and give back.
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MY Magazine | 27
MY | inspiration
A DH D
in Adulthood
You may have received a diagnosis of ADHD from a professional, sat in a meeting regarding your child’s diagnosis and realized that you have the same qualities, or you read about ADHD and knew that this is your story. By Judy Lipson
I
’ve never liked the term ADHD. Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder focuses only on the negative aspects of this group of traits. But, since the term provides a meaningful shortcut in discussions about educational settings, employment, and other conversations, I use it.
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When working with clients, or presenting to parents and professionals, I focus on the qualities of ADHD. These can include difficulty with: • Time management
• Driving - directions, impulsivity or inattentiveness
• Attention to details
• Reading - light sensitivity, avoidance
• Organization
• Following directions www.mymagazineoakland.com
• Self-esteem and motivation • Writing - organization of thoughts, fine motor challenges • Anxiety
Consider also the gifts that come with ADHD. You are often intelligent inventors, entrepreneurs, and creative original thinkers excelling in non-traditional learning or work environments. You have compassion, live in the present and easily interconnect with others. You see the big picture and motivate others with your enthusiasm and energy. Some adults notice that their ADHD, which was a significant challenge in school, is no longer much of a problem. These individuals have usually found a job where movement is allowed, spontaneity and novelty are frequent, and detail work is at a minimum. Others experience ADHD significantly impacting their life and find the need to take medication during their adult years. Some adults take it daily while others have determined with their physicians that the only time they need ADHD medication is when they have a very detail-oriented activity to complete. With or without medication, it is important to use strategies that correspond to your gifts. Here are a number of strategies that adults have found helpful. Remember that you might wish to personalize them for your style. USE A CALENDAR (paper or digital) to keep track of your appointments and deadlines. Carry it with you at all times. TO-DO LISTS I used to carry a small pad of paper to list and check off items. In today’s digital world there are many free apps for smartphones to assist you. Since I forget to look at them, I now use the “all-day” portion of my iPhone calendar to list these specific tasks on the day that I’m most likely, or most need, to complete them. I use the calendar’s specific time slots for appointments. ACKNOWLEDGE COMPLETION of your to-do items for personal reinforcement. I place an X in front of
each to-do item to confirm its completion. LONG TERM PROJECTS Chunk these into manageable tasks. I find it helpful to not only put in the due dates, but also to note the day I will tackle each project/task. SET ALERTS If you are going to need an hour to arrive at your destination, be sure that your alert notifies you sufficiently in advance of departure time. It’s also wise to set an additional alert the day (or hours) prior as reminder. ALARMS Set multiple alarms, possibly across the room. There are also vibrating-pillow alarm clocks. You might awaken a half hour prior to your get-up time to take your ADHD medication; then when the real alarm goes off it is easier to engage the day. ORGANIZATION and CLEAN UP ·
The entire project does not need to be completed in one attempt.
·
Begin at a specific section like your desk surface or kitchen countertop, or start in a corner and move around the perimeter of the room.
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Instead of saving stacks of magazines to read later or keep for reference, access articles and information from the web.
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Use a dark bag for garbage. A clear or different color can be used to collect items for donation. Everything else gets put away.
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Use totes, buckets, crates, etc. to store groups of items together.
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Provide visibility for what you use often.
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If you are a collector limit items to a specific area/bucket. No room for new items? Sell or donate.
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·
Give yourself an incentive for each completed task.
Life with ADHD means you have likely experienced a number of incidents that led you to feel less than others. School, social events, family, and bullying can make you believe that you don’t fit the expectation and must not be okay. This is not true!! Honor who you are, display your gifts to the world, and present yourself confidently to the younger generation and your peers. It’s time to be proud of Who You Really Are. Judy Lipson is a licensed, professional counselor and educational strategist in West Bloomfield, MI. She helps clients of all ages who have learning difficulties, work or school related anxiety, ADHD, Asperger’s Syndrome or Autism Spectrum Disorders. Contact Judy at 248.568.8665 and judylipson@spiralwisdom. net, and visit SpiralWisdom.net for more information. This article is for informational purposes and is not meant to replace medical care.
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The Time is Now By Elaine Grohman
W
e all have moments when we dream about our future. We have all had moments when we long for the past. We dream about the things we want. We dream about the careers we want. We dream about the relationships we want. We dream about people and places that we would like to know in our lifetime; and then we wait. We also think, much too frequently I feel, about the things that we don’t want. We don’t want a relationship in which we don’t feel loved. We don’t want another job that is unfulfilling. We don’t want a boss that is a bully. We don’t want to live where the weather is too cold or the weather is too hot. We don’t want the debt we have accumulated, and on and on it goes. Since life is about creating, and we are part of creation, it would be wise for us to understand the great potential that awaits our attention. In order to create, we must call forth those people, places, events, and opportunities that we want in our lives, and ignore the unwanted. Creation and creating moves in one direction only—forward, never backwards. Forward momentum acknowledges the magnificent metamorphosis of creation. Wanting creates, but not wanting does too. What if you knew, truly knew, that there is no other time than now? Yes, of course, we have the notions of past, present, and future. The past is the proverbial “times gone by,” the vital place in which our memories reside or worse, the place where perpetual blame, sorrow or anger renders us lifeless. But living in the past is not truly living and is often a desperate, futile attempt to alter that which cannot be changed. Looking to the future, we dream about the things we want, usually half-heartedly. Often lurking among our thoughts about the future is the common misconception that what we want really won’t be ours. We unconsciously believe that we are not deserving, or that what we “want” is only for the lucky few. This thinking thwarts our 30 | MY Magazine
happiness before it has a chance to blossom. Again, we stop ourselves in our tracks. Many of us “live” in the past, long for the future, but neglect the present. The present is just that, a present—a gift that can be what you choose to make it! What if you knew that your greatest dreams can and will be accomplished if you are willing to take the necessary steps to bring these dreams to fruition? Thankfully, more and more people are becoming increasingly aware of the incredible power that each of us possess. We are inextricably a part of creation, and creation creates. Your dreams are powerful tools of exploration to new and exciting potentials. Dreams are the chalkboards of our mind, the place where problems can be examined and solutions imagined. As we begin to comprehend the futility of lingering in the past, we will learn to bless the past, discovering, perhaps for the first time, who we are meant to be in relation to anything that ever happens to us. By observing the past, we can resolve to honor ourselves in new ways. We can stand in observation rather than judgment and thereby uphold the integrity of our own lives. What if you knew that the present is the place of endless possibilities; a boundless field of opportunities that creation has laid before you? Once ignited within human hearts and minds, the future can germinate in the fertile landscape of the now moment, making it not only possible but certain that something wonderful is on its way. The time is now. Dream it! Be it! Do it!
Elaine Grohman is a speaker, author, energy healer and angel reader. She has a private practice in Farmington, MI. For appointments please contact Lainie Rubio at 248.320.6532 or visit her website at www.elainegrohman.com
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MY Magazine | 31
Jessica’s Fab Finds
Photography by Robert Olinski Art Direction by Steve Ragland Fashion Editor Jessica Kocik
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Make a statement without saying a word. Blackened silver and quartz with 24 karat overlay, $275 So Zen Designs, Franklin 248.752.0995
Mysterious and classic, the perfect accent to every outfit. Thierry Lasry, $425 Zieben-Mare, Franklin, 248.539.8879
Brighten any day with this great purse in a statement color. Kate Spade, $125 Closet NV Consignment Boutique, Birmingham, 248.731.7181
Bragging Rights The perfect gift for mom that shows everyone why you’re her favorite. Keep her at peace with inspired yoga wear. good hYOUman, $64, good hYOUman yoga pants, $63 PlumStreet Jewelry Guardian Angel bracelets, $32 each Abbot-Kinney, Franklin 313.207.1809
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4 Help her feel chic during Michigan’s ever-changing spring. Jil Sander, $185, Closet NV Consignment Boutique, Birmingham, 248.731.7181
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Wrap her in this yummy sweater! Perfect for spring days and summer evenings. AVANT TOI, $650 Zieben-Mare Franklin, 248.539.8879
A piece of timeless elegance. Hermes, $325, Deja Vu Upscale Designer Resale, Franklin 248.855.4567 Sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll have this flower forever! Sterling silver with freshwater pearl, $350 Yanke Designs Fine Jewelry, 248.855.5525
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9 Handmade and one of a kind, this necklace is a show-stopper. African brass on leather with freshwater pearls, $210, So Zen Designs, Franklin, 248.752.0995
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Elegant and edgy, these earrings can be taken from day to night! Blackened sterling with golden freshwater pearl, $870 Yanke Designs Fine Jewelry Franklin, 248.855.5525
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Feed her shoe habit with this dazzling, blinged out pair. Brian Atwood, $168 Deja Vu Upscale Designer Resale, Franklin, 248.855.4567
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Pamper her with a tray full of bliss. Michel tray $35, Michel candle $20, Michel soap dish $15, The Soap Woman black berry and sage soap salt bar, $8, Lily McGee white magnolia tower soaps $15 Event Bliss, Franklin, 248.862.6741
A cut above the rest. Marble Cheese board: Star Home, $100 Event Bliss, Franklin, 248.862.6741
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MY Magazine | 33
Pam Bond Photography by Robert Olinski
MYMakeover 34 | MY Magazine
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Aferdita Qafa, Makeup, Pam Bond and Yiannis Karimalis, Hair Stylist
Pam emailed us about a year ago hoping for the chance to get a makeover. Well her patience payed off and we were able to deliver! Pam was up for anything, the perfect candidate for our professionals! We had fun conversing with Pam about her work and family. She enjoyed every minute of the pampering. When she was camera ready, Steve did his magic. Pam left the salon very happy and grateful, her first stop, to show her mom!
Pam told me that she was a great grandmother…but she didn’t want to look or feel like one! Her hair was cut short and she wore it curly. Pam’s color was a washed out light brown. I envisioned what I wanted to do immediately to ensure that she felt young and vibrant. I started by giving her a deep mahogany base color. I cut it, keeping it short in the back, and kept the bangs and one side longer and asymmetrical. Then, to really change up her previous appearance, I gave Pam some strong fuchsia highlights around her face. Women can absolutely wear colorful highlights when they are older to add drama and create a more youthful look. Pam absolutely loved it and felt terrific! Not only does she look beautiful and radiant, no one would ever guess she has great grandchildren. ~ Hair by Yiannis Karimalis 248.931.8722, www.yiannishair.com The first time I met Pam was about twenty years ago when we worked together at a salon in West Bloomfield. It was such a pleasure seeing her again after all these years, and I can honestly say she hasn’t aged a bit! Hard to believe she’s now a Great Grandmother! Pam has a very youthful presence and vivacious personality, I knew she’d be open to something fun. For the eyes I went with vibrant earth tones, black and brown liner along with long eyelashes which excited Pam, she said she hasn’t worn them in years. Her skin is seriously perfect, so I kept it very clean, with a hint of bronzer to warm up her complexion a bit. I finished her new look off with a soft, mauve creme lipstick. ~ Make up by Aferdita Qafa, 248.877.8006 www.mymagazineoakland.com
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MY | ask the life coach
The Power of Play By John J. Schalter
Dear John, I’m working more and more on my jobs and seem to be getting nowhere. I thought hard work would mean success. What am I doing wrong? Casey B. Dear Casey, Recently, I experienced the same thing. I was working harder, but getting less done. I took stock of myself and realized that things in my life were getting out of balance. The proverbial “all work and no play makes John a dull life coach!” I discovered I need to play more. Consider the words of author Lawrence Robinson:
“In our hectic, modern lives, many of us focus so heavily on work and family commitments that we never seem to have time for pure fun. Somewhere between childhood and adulthood, we’ve stopped playing. When we do carve out some leisure time, we’re more likely to zone out in front of the TV or computer than engage in fun, rejuvenating play like we did as children. But just because we’re adults, that doesn’t mean we have to take ourselves so seriously and make life all about work. We all need to play.” Here are 7 suggestions (also: use your imagination and think up your own): 1. Establish the “intention” to be more playful in your life. This will cause you to see opportunities. When’s the last time you hopped on some monkey bars or sat on a swing at your local park (this is not illegal you know)? Like Nike says, “Just do it!”
in a competitive world. Take your foot off the gas pedal once in a while. Just do something for the sake of doing, and enjoy it! 4. Smile 27 times more than you do. I’ve heard that children smile 400 times a day and adults, only 15. Smiling is the catalyst to having fun. Vow to smile more! It makes you feel better, it’s contagious, and it’s fun. 5. Do something free. Almost all things that are noncompetitive fun things to do, don’t have an admission price. Jumping into a river with you clothes on can be the experience of a lifetime and it’s almost always free. Allow yourself to be enamored by Mother Nature. It’s putting on a 24/7 show at no cost. 6. Adopt the Mary Poppins method. You know the song. Find the “Spoon Full of Sugar” in almost any task. Intend to have fun in anything you do. Turn your latest office project into some sort of a game or play. This alone will eliminate most of the tension. 7. Hand out high-fives. For no reason at all, kids hand out high-fives like they just won gold at the Olympics. Next time you hear some good news, give somebody a highfive. It feels good to get pumped about the little things. Let me know what happens when you plan to play more! Remember, a family that plays together stays together. We are all too blessed to be stressed. Live a quantum life! Be well,
John
2. Stay away from “high tech” toys. Video games may be fun, however we all need a break from the digital world once in a while. Part of our objective is to do something wild and unexpected. Break out of your comfort zone. 3. Find something non-competitive. No one keeps score when you are flying a kite. It’s just…well…fun! We live
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John is a Life Coach, a practicing attorney (35 years) and a professional screenwriter. He is also a musician, songwriter and artist. He does private coaching and limits his client number to 20. If you would like to discuss coaching and/or get on the waiting list call him at 586-997-HELP (4357). The first consultation is always free.
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MY Magazine | 37
MY | women’s health
Finding Your Doctor Transparency is the New Black BY MARY MELDRUM
There are several strategies to assist you when it comes to finding the right physician for your health care. Waiting until you are sick to start your search for the right physician is not one of the best strategies. There are many resources available for finding a new doctor, or even checking into the one that you already have. Insurance plans generally require that you choose a physician in one of their directories to be your primary care physician. This doctor would be the first clinician you call when you have any health issue, and then they can refer you to a specialist to help you if needed. The doctor that you prefer to see may or may not be on their list of preferred providers. Check with your insurance company to find out if your health plan will cover visits with the physician you choose. You will also want to find out what hospital system your doctor is affiliated with, as well as what his or her qualifications, credentials, and education are. Are they board certified? Have they completed any fellowships? You can also ask for a breakdown of costs associated with exams and general procedures that you may need in order to compare costs.
T
he health care industry has gone through some big transformations in the last couple of years requiring many of us to be routed into new insurance coverage. This can require finding new medical professionals and Getting a referral for a physician from someone you know is a strong traditional way to locate a good doctor. Personal referrals from friends, neighbors, family, nurses, or other trusted medical technicians or clinicians who know you are always a good place to start when it comes to referrals for physicians.
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facilities to handle your medical oversight and care. Evaluating new medical professionals—including specialists—can involve a little homework on your part, and some transparency on the part of the physician.
You can also check out physician reviews on Yelp or Angie’s List, and there are websites like HealthGrades.com that can also help to sort out your decision as well. Consumer Reports has put together a comprehensive list of links where patients can go to gather information on physicians. This list includes:
Although all healthcare professionals are confined within certain standards of best practices and protocols, it is important to remember that medicine is a practice of art and science. For that reason, every physician has their own philosophy and priorities when it
AMA Doctor Finder Basic information on more than 814,000 physicians in the U.S. You get information on specialty training, board certification, and more. There is no information on patient outcomes, disciplinary actions, or communication skills.
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AngiesList.com User reviews on an A through F scale, sometimes based on a limited number of responses, for categories such as availability, punctuality, staff friendliness, and effectiveness of treatment. Requires an annual membership fee ranging from $3.50 to $10, depending on services you select.
comes to care that may be important to understand for patients. What is your doctor’s view on preventive health, women’s health, integrative medicine, and end-of-life care? What is their view on nutrition, supplements and holistic health? Does the physician’s view match with yours? There are massive amounts of medical information and information on healthy choices available to us via the internet. These can be helpful, but they can be confusing too. Finding a physician who can help you sort it all out might take a little work, but can be worth the extra effort. When attending conferences, doctors must reveal to each other if they are paid by drug companies or medical device companies. This seems reasonable since it helps to frame out what motivators and incentives might be in place for physicians when they recommend treatment. It would be great if that information were made available to their patients as well, since Healthgrades.com Comprehensive, easy-to-use site that allows searches by name, procedure, specialty, or condition. Includes info on education, affiliated hospitals, sanctions, malpractice claims, and insurance plans. Ratings on topics such as patient satisfaction and wait time are based on patient feedback.
financial incentives might have an impact on treatment selection and patient care. A doctor’s affiliation with drug companies can indicate how committed he is to proceed via best evidence versus pressure from the pharmaceutical industry. This kind of transparency is becoming more and more requested as patients educate themselves with regard to their health care choices. Some physicians are more than willing to expose any affiliations they have and explain their choices.
unacceptable long periods of time? Does the doctor actively listen to you without cutting you off or being distracted? Is he or she genuinely concerned about your privacy, your outcomes, and how you manage your illness or injury once you leave his office? Quantifying a doctor’s temperament and tendencies is up to each patient because it is not listed on any curriculum vitae. A short initial consultation with a doctor of your choice can help you decide if he or she is a good fit for you.
Probably the most difficult aspects to assess are the intangible traits of a doctor. Those include integrity, professionalism, values, respect, and commitment to his or her profession. A physician’s character is arguably the most important facet of their qualifications. Their ability to deliver great care with the highest standards of ethics and behavior is the homerun that we all want from our doctors. This goes to their compassion, their compatibility, their personality, and their ability to create a professional relationship with you in order to optimize your experience with them. Are your questions being answered? Is he or she chronically late, leaving you in the waiting room or operatory for
RateMDs.com Search for doctors by name, sex, ZIP code, state, and specialty. Includes information on training as well as patient ratings on staff, punctuality, helpfulness, and knowledge. Patients can post questions and answers about doctors. Ratings are based on patient reviews.
Vitals.com Find doctors by specialty, condition, insurance, name, and more. You’ll get the lowdown on a doctor’s awards, expertise, hospital affiliations, and insurance as well as patient ratings on measures such as bedside manner, followup, promptness, accuracy of diagnosis, and average wait time.
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Physician Compare Information from the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services for people looking for health care providers who accept Medicare. Provides information on board certification, education, and group and hospital affiliations. This information was copied from ConsumerReports.org.
MY Magazine | 39
MY | local
Uncorked Inspiration
By Barbara Krajenke Photgrapher Shawna Kitt Art Direction by Steve Ragland
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nspiration Uncorked Art Parties in Ferndale is a unique place for friends to gather, sip wine and unleash creativity. Owner Mary Higgins designed the open, airy space in the former Higgins Pontiac dealership, (no relation), as a venue to bond with friends and the inner artist by providing art-based activities for fun or therapy. “(Art) brings the kid out in you, takes you out of your comfort zone and you leave with something you love.” Higgins has seen her business blossom since she opened Inspiration Uncorked in Nov. 2013. Her inspiration for opening up an art themed business was sparked while she was working as a preschool teacher. “Art was an important part of the program. Parents would comment that they would love to do these projects too.” Inspiration Uncorked offers a variety of projects including scarf and glass painting, jewelry making and Zentangle, a method of art therapy using drawing exercises
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to relax the mind and increase focus, taught by Zentangle certified teacher Samm Wunderlich. The projects are designed for all ages and all abilities. “People who walk in here saying they are not artistic go home happy and love what they’ve done.” Higgins has fun with all of the projects and people she meets through her business, “Every single class I learn something about art, I learn something about business and I learn something about people. I am always learning that’s what I love about it too.” In addition to being a fun spot for art and camaraderie, clients are permitted to bring their own beer, wine or punch, and food items. Inspiration Uncorked provides water, sodas and coffee-based drinks for purchase. One of the benefits of gathering at Inspiration Uncorked is they provide all of the art supplies including an ‘inspiration table’ to inspire clients’ designs and most importantly there is no clean up, everything is taken care of by Higgins and her staff. Higgins said the feedback from her clients at Inspiration Uncorked has been positive. “People say that it’s really great and fun. They are happy they are going home with something they’ll actually use and great teaching staff. They always say they’ll come back…what makes us special is the teachers are awesome and talented artists.” Inspiration Uncorked is an independently owned and operated business, allowing Higgins to customize events to clients’ needs. “I like not being a franchise. I can cater to what’s going on, a party or more subdued…when people call they talk to me.” The Inspiration Uncorked space is able to accommodate a party of one or up to a group of 50 depending on the activity. Some of the most popular events are
girls’ night out, birthday parties, showers, and corporate events. The facility is able to host more than one group at time. The benefit to hosting an event at a boutique venue is “personal attention and our ability to best accommodate and make all wishes come true. We can be flexible.” The art activities last two hours; the glass painting class is two and half-hours. Inspiration Uncorked is open Tuesday through Sunday and requires a minimum of two-hour notice for booking a reservation. Prices for the activities; $36 for scarf painting, $42 glass painting and silver clay jewelry making, $48 glass fused pendants and $35 Zentangle.
INSPIRATION UNCORKED
23245 Woodward Ave, Ferndale Free parking is available behind the building. 248.877.8689 • inspirationuncorked.com
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MY Magazine | 41
MY | fitness
Love Your Life Spending time in nature is good for your health, mind, and emotions By Barbara Krajenke
emember playing outside until the lights came on? The freedom, fascination, and exploration of dirt, nearby fields or woods? A crew of neighborhood kids bonding through outdoor play, bike rides, and imagination, transforming even the most familiar landscapes into a place of wonder.
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The replenishing effects of nature can be explained through the biophillia hypothesis: human beings are naturally bonded to nature because we are a part of nature. Edward Wilson first discussed the biophillia concept—a desire for human beings to relate to nature, as a form of life, fulfilling a psychological need, or “love of life,”—in his book Biophillia (1984).
Playing outside is part of being a kid and essential for development, enhancing motor skills, creative thinking, problem solving, strengthening muscles, joints and immunity, improving vision, alleviating anxiety and depression, enhancing mood, increasing social interaction, and a good dose of vitamin D.
Man-made conveniences make our life easier, saving us time and effort in a busy lifestyle, but they do not have a restorative effect on our bodies, minds, and sprits. University of Maryland, Australian, and Finnish studies found that access to the outdoors and green spaces had a significant effect on preventing mental health issues. Physical activity outdoors enhanced a sense of well-being and self-esteem, improved attention and revitalization, and feelings of anxiety, stress, and depression decreased.
The benefits of being outside in nature are not just limited to youth, the benefits last a lifetime. Numerous research studies from across the globe are finding that spending time outdoors and in nature is an essential part to good health and well-being, having holistic benefits for the body, mind, and spirit. Spending time in nature is restorative. It encourages social interactions, increases attention levels, encourages white blood cell production, balances the hormones, and replaces feelings of stress with positivity. Even five minutes of exposure to the outdoors a day can have lasting benefits, reinforcing its necessity as part of a health and wellness routine.
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A Japanese study highlights the importance for the elderly to have exposure to the outdoors and natural light to help stabilize cognitive function and promote a healthy sleep cycle. British research at the University of Aberdeen found restorative effects of nature on attention. Nature is an ever-changing environment with a variety of stimuli, having the mind work in an opposite fashion. The attention is not forced, allowing the mind to be replenished and creative and critical thinking strengthened because of this mental rest.
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It is important to be aware of the benefits of the outdoors in our technological age, an era when being outdoors is decreasing. Research by Sherry Turkle has found that too much technology use leads to decreased problem solving skills and an increase in anxiety and depression, especially among teens. This research reinforces our time in nature as a biological need for our health and well-being, a need to unplug and connect with life around us. No matter what age or activity level, being outdoors has lasting benefits. The Metro Detroit area is a host to many metro and state parks with access to fitness, biking trials, and water. Even if you are unable to make the jaunt to one of these nature areas, walking or biking in your neighborhood or lounging in your backyard is still valuable to well-being.
Hiking Hiking is a great cardio and strength building
workout, improving bone density and balance without putting too much pressure on the joints. The use of poles will workout the upper body and maneuvering over terrain will promote balance, while carrying a backpack can be like weights building up the back muscles. When hiking, it is important to where the proper gear, such as shoes or boots with gripping soles. Know the weather and use a map to familiarize yourself with the trails and hike in pairs, especially in unfamiliar terrain. Keep water in your pack to stay hydrated and bug-spray to ward off pesky insects.
Biking Bicycling outside rather than a stationary bike has additional benefits. The inclines and wind resistance aid in creating more muscle strength, including in the core and upper body. It is a low-impact workout that is gentle on the joints. A bike riding exercise can be created to your desired activity level, being as rigorous or as gentle as needed. Racing up inclines or cruising through the neighborhood and taking it all in.
When embarking on a swim, follow safety precautions, such as not swimming alone and adjusting to colder waters slowly if your body is not used to it. Remember not over exert yourself in deep water. If going for a few laps, stay where you can ‘touch’ until you are confident with your endurance. Swimming can be a great restorative workout while increasing stamina at the same time.
Gardening Gardening is a beautiful and relaxing activity, but it can also be a great workout for anyone of any fitness level and ability. It is a complete sensory experience for the body and mind. The activities of gardening are considered a light to moderate cardio workout, aiding and improving motor skills and creative and critical thinking. The act of gardening is nurturing, having emotional and mental benefits. To prevent overuse of joints and muscles, alternate standing, sitting, and bending while working in the garden to intervals of a few minutes at a time. To prevent less stress on the back and knees, gardens can be planted in raised garden beds costumed to the desired height. Container gardens and tower gardens are also a great way to alleviate strain and are excellent for small spaces. Being outdoors and surrounded in the natural world has health and wellness benefits that can last a lifetime. Even if you’re not in the mood for any activities, just laying on a blanket in the backyard or resting on the front porch swing can revitalize your body, mind, and spirit. In this modern world we are enclosed in the artificial. Let’s open up to the nature and its expansive benefits, being healthier and happier by reconnecting to something greater and restoring ourselves. For metro parks in your area visit metroparks.com For state parks visit Michigan.gov/dnr
Ride your bike safely by being aware of your surroundings, wearing a helmet, and using lights at dusk and at night. Use arm turning signals, especially when riding in traffic, and make sure your bike is a proper fit to avoid injury. Local bike shops can assess and adjust the frame, handlebars, and seat to best fit you. There are benefits to health and well-being when swimming outside as opposed to an indoor pool. Outdoor swimming increases heart and lung function since your body is working harder to keep you warm, creating more muscle strength and an increase in stamina.
Swimming
Swimming in open waters, such as lakes, rivers and oceans, has additional benefits. Currents add resistance, creating a more vigorous cardio workout and increasing muscle tone, giving the body a low-impact workout that is gentle on the joints.
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MY | local
CRAVE
CALLING ALL SUSHI VIRGINS By Mary Meldrum • Photographer Robert Olinski • Art Direction by Steve Ragland
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estled amidst a bevy of inviting retail store fronts, Crave opened this past January on Woodward in the hustle and bustle of downtown Ferndale, just south of Nine Mile Road. The rustic brick walls, the lights, the music, and the lone vintage candelabra add a sumptuous element of warmth. The staff knocks it out of the park with superb knowledge of the menu, their eagerness to make you comfortable, and their outstanding eye contact and responsiveness. With great sincerity and in the grandest sense, you are their guest. The front wall of Crave opens to fresh air and Co-owner, Khalil Ramadan
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sunshine for patrons on beautiful days—bonus! The contagious energy in this establishment is complimented by the beautiful plates of food flowing out of the kitchen and the buzz from the downtown foot traffic. This is home. The menu at Crave is…there is not a word that really delivers here, so we will have to settle for sensational or remarkable. Those still fall short. Crave features Asian food with a Mediterranean fusion, but every dish has a stunning little twist of flavor that I guarantee you will never expect. Is it possible to have a mouth orgasm? Yeah, pretty sure that happened. They added comfort food to the menu offerings, giving the already inviting and gracious atmosphere of the place a neighborhood feel. Beef, salmon, Hamachi, and conch carpaccio are all listed among the starters with an absolute carnival of flavors, including mango, avocado, orange zest, ponzu, wasabi, and cilantro. A luscious and
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unexpected brunch menu contrasts the sushi dinner menu. Mind blown. “Restaurants are changing and we change with the times,” explains Khalil, the founder of Crave. Indeed, the brunch menu melts any resistance with suggestions like Challah French Toast with Brulee Bananas and Buttermilk Pancakes with whipped lemon ricotta. Wait. What? Whipped lemon ricotta?! The bounty of shared plates and fascinating entrees make meals conversational as well as a social immersion. (Airline chicken? Do tell!) Crave is quickly becoming a busy hot spot in Oakland county, thanks to Khalil Ramadan, the founder, along with his wife Thea and partner Edward Farah. Khalil works a day job, but with the help of technology he has his eye on a web camera all day watching his restaurant. He is not checking up on his staff. He wants to see customers and their reactions to the food. He is checking the lighting and the music. This is his passion and focus. Khalil’s curious palette and natural magnetism make Crave the perfect mirror for his conspicuous energy. When asked why he opened Crave when he has other work, Khalil smiles, “Giving people a new experience, that’s
my pleasure.” With exquisite manners, Khalil authentically enjoys being the gracious host and astonishing his visitors with extraordinary food. With the attention to detail, a spectacular menu and aesthetics, it comes as no surprise that this is not his first rodeo. He was one of the owners of Pure, a nightclub in Detroit in the 90s, and the founder of the Crave location in Dearborn. “You can pop in here on a Monday or Tuesday and get a quick burger and fries,” says Khalil. “Come as you are in your work clothes or jeans.” The theme is for you to be comfortable, happy, and well fed. And if you want some truly glorious sushi…well, let’s talk about the sushi. The focus is on flavor. There is no thick layer of rice and nothing typical about it. This sushi is for the curious consumer and perfect for you sushi virgins, so leave your preconceptions and prejudices at the door and allow yourself to be surprised and transformed. Patrons with an educated sushi palette will deeply appreciate the contradictions and diversity of tastes. Brace yourself. This is not sushi. This is nirvana. “I train my servers to encourage customers to allow us to order a few things off our menu for them to try,” reveals Khalil. “People are forced to make tough decisions all week long, so when they come in they are going to automatically go for the familiar items on the menu. We want to lure them away from that and give them a new experience.” Bravo. I am officially ruined from eating sushi anywhere else.
and fries? They have that. You want something off the charts? They have that. You want something outside the orbit of this planet? Darling, they have that in spades. “I’m breaking sushi virgins all day,” laughs Khalil. “They love our sushi. You can get a normal California roll or steak anywhere else. I want people to come here for food, relaxation, and to get away.” The menu, the staff, the atmosphere, and the experience of Crave is a departure from the repetitive burger joints. The feeling of comfort permeates the place like a hometown restaurant. This is where people come to gather for lunch or at the end of their day and share stories, wine, and really great food. And this is without a doubt the place to bring your sushi virgins.
CRAVE
The training works. The staff is intimately knowledgeable about the menu offerings and can guide your selections. You want a burger
22726 Woodward Ave, Ferndale, MI 248.398.4070 cravelounge.com
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MY | Jim’s Blog Intervallo… “How do I eat it?” “You eat it like a grape,” says I. “Just pop it in your mouth.” A leap of faith followed by a puckered face and a grimace. “Wow it’s bitter but sort of sweet…” “Yup says I.” “I’m not sure I like it,” says she. A moment passes along with a migration of the flavor from the tip of the tongue to the sides and even the taste buds at the rear. “I’ll take the lot says she…” The foregoing fictionalized drama is a common occurrence in real life when I stand in the produce aisle and hawk kumquats like a common street peddler. I love the things and have as long as I can recall.
Kumquats “What is that thing she asks” ?” “It’s a Kumquat says I”… “What does it taste like” ?” “Well…” says I, “it’s sweet, bitter, puckery, zesty, citrusy but never demure.” “May I taste one ?” “Of course,” says I. “Let me wash it first….”
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Kumquats originated in the East, likely Japan or the Philippines. They were first brought to England in 1846 and have been cultivated in California for nearly a century. The most common variety in the US is the Nagami variety. A near perfect oval and as pretty as a California orange but all comparisons stop there. Often candied and used as garnish the kumquat has the fortitude to stand on its own as a citrus snack. The cognoscenti gobble them up skin and all. The more timid skin them and eat only the sweet flesh.
I say skinning kumquats before eating them is like taking a bath with your socks on. Pop the entire thing in your mouth and enjoy the widest array of flavor and taste nature can provide. You’ll find them in the produce aisle at Hiller’s. by Jim Hiller, CEO Hiller’s Market WWW.HILLERS.COM
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THE SUPER SPICE
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urmeric is a culinary spice that is a major ingredient in Indian curries, and it makes American mustard yellow. But evidence is accumulating that this brightly colored relative of ginger is a promising disease-preventive agent as well, probably due largely to its anti-inflammatory action. One of the most comprehensive summaries of turmeric studies to date was published by the respected ethnobotanist James A. Duke, Phd. in the October 2007 issue of Alternative & Complementary Therapies and summarized in the July 2008 issue of the American Botanical Council publication HerbClip. Reviewing some 700 studies, Duke concluded that turmeric appears to outperform many pharmaceuticals in its effects against several chronic, debilitating diseases and does so with virtually no adverse side effects. Here are some of the diseases that turmeric has been found to help prevent or alleviate: •
Alzheimer’s disease: Duke found more than 50 studies on turmeric’s effects in addressing Alzheimer’s disease. The reports indicate that extracts of turmeric contain a number of natural agents that block the formation of beta-amyloid, the substance responsible for the plaques that slowly obstruct cerebral function in Alzheimer’s disease.
•
Arthritis: Turmeric contains more than two dozen anti-inflammatory compounds, including six different COX-2-inhibitors (the COX-2 enzyme promotes pain, swelling and inflammation; inhibitors selectively block that enzyme). Curcumin—the component in turmeric most often cited for its healthful effects—is a multifaceted anti-inflammatory agent, and studies of the efficacy of curcumin have demonstrated positive changes in arthritic symptoms according to Duke.
•
Cancer: He noted that in the handbook Phytochemicals: Mechanisms of Action, curcumin and/or turmeric were effective in animal models in prevention and/or treatment of colon cancer, mammary cancer, prostate cancer, liver cancer in rats, esophageal cancer, and oral cancer. Duke said that the effectiveness of turmeric against these cancers compared favorably with that reported for pharmaceuticals.
Turmeric has many wonderful uses with the most common being as a spice that can be added to grilled foods, vegetables, broths and sauces. Or, try as a tea by dumping hot water, shredded coconut, turmeric, cinnamon, honey/maple syrup and cayenne into the blender and blending for 2 minutes. If you are looking to add more turmeric to your diet, Hiller’s Market carries it year-round in our produce departments.
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MY | cooking school
SUMMERTIME SALADS 48 | MY Magazine
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By Chef Dawn Bause
Summer is right around the corner and it’s time to start living again! The added vitamin D from the sun, eating more fruits and veggies, and getting outside in the fresh air, all contribute to major improvements in how we look and feel. And, believe it or not research shows people have fewer heart attacks in the summer, tend to eat better, have lower cholesterol, fewer migraines, better skin and more energy! I’m always looking for creative and tasty ways to consume as many vegetables and fruits with each meal as possible and, there’s simply no better way to do this than with beautiful and refreshing salads In addition to using different greens and veggies, try adding fruit, cooked orzo, quinoa, couscous, faro or potatoes to your salad. Or turn a salad in to a main dish by adding some beans, fish, chicken or steak. I believe the secret to making an ordinary salad taste amazing is all about the dressing. Making salad dressing from scratch is nearly as fast and easy as shaking up a bottle, and taste’s so much better. Plus, it’s less expensive, has no preservatives and is healthier. The most basic way to make a salad taste really, really good is simple - only four ingredients! You don’t even mix them up again in a jar, just drizzle or sprinkle these ingredients on your salad. Start with extra virgin olive oil, the best you can afford. Drizzle the oil over the salad ingredients. Add some fresh squeezed lemon juice or vinegar (white wine, balsamic or any other specialty vinegar) coarse sea or kosher salt, and fresh cracked pepper. In Italy, often times if they are using a really good extra virgin olive oil, they don’t even add the lemon or vinegar. I always drizzle the oil on the salad ingredients first and toss gently. Then I add the lemon or vinegar followed by the salt and pepper. Toss again before serving.
Fresh Berry Chicken Salad This salad pays homage to summer. It is full of everything wonderful and delicious. For the salad 2½ cups romaine, chopped 2 ears fresh corn, shucked and grilled 1 cup blueberries 2/3 cup strawberries, hulled and chopped 1 grilled chicken breast, chopped 1 avocado, chopped 1/3 cup crumbled feta or goat cheese 1/3 cup cilantro, stems removed and chopped ½ teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon pepper For the dressing 2 limes, juiced 2 teaspoons honey 1 teaspoon red wine vinegar 2 teaspoons olive oil Lightly coat corn cobs with olive oil. Grill corn cobs over an open flame on a grill. Once the kernels appear lightly charred, remove from heat. Place the corn cob flat on a cutting board. With downward motion toward cutting board, cut of the entire length of one side. Continue this, rotating the cob around. Once most of the corn has been removed, take the back of your knife and run it down the length of the corn to remove the remaining bits of corn. In a large bowl, mix together lettuce, corn, chicken, avocado, blueberries, strawberries, and feta. Sprinkle with salt and pepper then toss thoroughly. In a smaller bowl, whisk together lime juice, honey, olive oil and vinegar. Pour over salad, then toss once more.
Here are some refreshing salad recipes for you to try this summer.
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Simple Cucumber and Tomato Salad Serves 8
A beautiful and refreshing salad for summer 3 cucumbers, peeled, seeded, and finely chopped 1 pint yellow pear or cherry tomatoes, finely chopped 4-5 Roma tomatoes, finely chopped 3 scallions, finely chopped 1 large bunch of parsley, finely chopped Olive oil Salt and pepper to taste Combine the cucumbers, tomatoes, scallions and parsley in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil, salt and pepper.
Watermelon Napoleon Stacks Makes 5 stacks
This savory watermelon salad is sure to impress your guests and is a perfect summer appetizer! Marinade for Watermelon Slices 8-10 rectangles of watermelon (about 3 x 4 inches and ½ inch thick) Juice of one lemon 4 mint leaves, chopped 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar ½ teaspoon honey For Salad 2 marinated watermelon slices 4 tsp. crumbled feta 2 mint leaves, chopped + more for garnish ½ slice cooked bacon, chopped Few small slices of very thinly shaved red onions Balsamic vinegar In a Ziploc bag, combine watermelon slices and ingredients for marinade. Allow to marinate overnight in the fridge. To make the salad, place a slice of watermelon on the plate, top with 2 teaspoons of crumbled feta, then 1 chopped mint leaf, ½ a slice of chopped bacon, a few red onion shavings, and finish with a drizzle of balsamic vinegar and a mint leaf for garnish.
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That’s it for this issue but before signing off, I just want to mention there are still a few places left on my fall “Splendors of Tuscany Tour,” September 26 to October 3rd, 2015. It’s the ultimate small group, privately guided food and wine tour in Italy. For more info go to my website: www.cookingwithdawn.com. Email or call me with questions: AskDawnNow@aol.com or, pick up the phone and call me at 313.618.6559. Buon Appetito!
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