February 2014 na by Natural Awakenings Toledo

H E A L T H Y

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P L A N E T

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HAPPY HEALTHY HEART What Pioneering Docs Are Learning About Heart Care

CALM DOWN

Natural Ways to Relax Deeply

LOVE MAGNET Draw True Love Your Way

SPINNING SPINOFFS Cycling Back to Its Origins

February 2014 | Toledo, OH / Monroe County, MI Edition | NaturalAwakeningsToledo.com natural awakenings

February 2014

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contents

10 12

5 newsbriefs 8 healthbriefs 12 globalbriefs 15 ecotip 16 business

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.

16 THE CENTER AT

ALTERNATIVE spotlight PHYSICAL THERAPY 17 inspiration 21 healthykids 18 RETHINKING 16 HEART HEALTH 22 healingways Pioneering Doctors and 24 consciouseating Patients Reinvent Cardio Care by Linda Sechrist 18 26 fitbody 21 QUIET KIDS IN 28 greenliving A NOISY WORLD 30 wisewords Bringing Out the Best in Introverts by Meredith Montgomery 32 naturalpet 34 calendar 22 SIMPLE STRESS 37 classifieds BUSTERS Natural Ways to Slide into 38 resourceguide

advertising & submissions HOW TO ADVERTISE To advertise with Natural Awakenings or request a media kit, please contact us at 419-340-3592 or email Publisher@NA-Toledo.com. Deadline for ads: the 10th of the month. EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONS Email articles, news items and ideas to: Publisher@NAToledo.com. Deadline for editorial: the 10th of the month. CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS Visit our website to enter calendar items – Natural AwakeningsToledo.com. You will receive a confirmation email when your event has been approved and posted online, usually within 24 hours. Events submitted by the 10th and meet our criteria will be added to the print magazine as space permits.

a State of Calmness by Kathleen Barnes

26 CYCLES OF SPIN Returning to its Heart-Healthy Origins by Janet Osen

28 HOME SAFE HOME

Practical Pillars of Well-Being

by Christa O’Leary

26 30

30 LOVE MAGNET

Katherine Woodward Thomas on Drawing True Love Our Way by Debra Melani

31 TEACHING THE YOGA

TEACHER TO TEACH VETS by Ariana Rawls Fine

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32 CARDIAC CARE

NaturalAwakeningsToledo.com

by Dr. Shawn Messonnier

FOR PETS

How to Keep Little Hearts Humming natural awakenings

32 February 2014

publisher'sletter

contact us Publisher/Editor Vicki Perion National Editor S. Alison Chabonais Editorial Randy Kambic Martin Miron Patti Radakovich Design & Production Stephen Blancett Kim Cerne Patrick Floresca Calendar Sherry Ann Franchise Sales 239-530-1377 P.O. Box 5452 Toledo, OH 43613 Cell: 419-340-3592 Fax: 419-329-4340 Publisher@NA-Toledo.com NaturalAwakeningsToledo.com © 2014 by Natural Awakenings. All rights reserved. Although some parts of this publication may be reproduced and reprinted, we require that prior permission be obtained in writing. Natural Awakenings is a free publication distributed locally and is supported by our advertisers. It is available in selected stores, health and education centers, healing centers, public libraries and wherever free publications are generally seen. Please call to find a location near you or if you would like copies placed at your business.

hen you think of your heart, what thoughts come to mind? Perhaps you wonder at its steadfast beating. Maybe you recall times when it was “broken” by the loss of a former love. Glad or sad, it’s an amazing organ by all counts and I for one am daily thankful that mine is still in good shape. With age, I have realized the importance of keeping my heart working well and making sure I do whatever it takes to keep it that way. Any help I can get is appreciated, which is why I’m excited by this month’s issue theme of Rethinking Heart Health, with an added bonus of Stress Relief. What an amazing presence the heart is, pumping life-giving oxygenated blood to all parts of the body. Did you know? This tireless workhorse, the size of a fist, averages 72 beats per minute, or 2.5 billion beats over a 66 year lifespan, circulating 4.7 to 5.7 liters of blood a minute. That’s just for starters. When you read Linda Sechrist’s feature article on how pioneering doctors and patients are reinventing cardio care, you’ll come away with a whole new approach for taking take care of your heart. When we keep our hearts happy and humming, we are more likely to live long and healthy lives. We all know that stress has undesirable repercussions for our heart and every other part of our body. As a welcome stress buster, I recommend regularly treating yourself to a therapeutic massage or other bodywork that are proven ways to release tension and keep the energy flowing, helping to keep your body balanced. You’ll find more feel-good natural stress relief tips on page 22. Ancient peoples so respected the heart that they considered it the seat of intelligence while for us it symbolizes the center of human emotions. It’s such a key to our essence that much of our language reflects the many roles it plays; for example, we may speak from the heart, commune heart to heart or follow our heart. I’m happy that the connection between heart and soul is becoming clearer to me. For a sweet dessert, check out Judith Fertig’s take on “Chocolate as Health Food.” That also makes me happy. To good health,

We do not necessarily endorse the views expressed in the articles and advertisements, nor are we responsible for the products and services advertised. We welcome your ideas, articles and feedback.

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Vicki Perion, Publisher

Natural Awakenings is printed on recycled newsprint with soybased ink.

Toledo/Monroe edition

NaturalAwakeningsToledo.com

newsbriefs Online Radio Emphasizes Role of Natural Health Care

special Rethinking Health Matters online radio show, hosted by Natural Awakenings National Editor Linda Sechrist from 3 to 4:30 p.m. EST, February 7, will highlight the importance of independent media in informing the public about natural health care options. Guests will include several Natural Awakenings publishers and Scott Tips, president of Natural Health Federation, an international educational nonprofit that protects access to healthy food and supplements and alternative therapies without government restrictions. Additional guests are Joanne Quinn, Ph.D., executive director of the Foundation for Alternative and Integrative Medicine, which collects clinical data to advance nontoxic, cost-effective therapies, plus international research consultant Ferdinando Pisani Massamormile. Also participating are Dr. James Forleo, author of Health is Simple, Disease is Complicated; Dr. Constance Casebolt, owner of South Carolina’s Greenville Functional Medicine; and Sayer Ji, founder of GreenMedInfo.com, the world’s foremost open-access, natural medicine database. To listen, visit Rethinking Health Matters at BlogTalkRadio. com/greenmedradio.

Have a Heart for Max Clark

ave a Heart for Max Clark is a fundraiser for Max Clark, an 18-yearold who suffered from the flu a year ago. The flu virus attacked Before flu shot. After flu shot. his brain and he ended up in a coma. He now has to learn everything all over again. The fundraiser will take place from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., February 8, at The Center at Alternative Physical Therapy, in Toledo. Food and beverages will be provided. The fundraiser is being sponsored by The Center at Alternative Physical Therapy to help raise $7,000 for a gently used wheelchair-accessible van that can be used to transport Max to his doctor appointments and physical therapy appointments. The Center will be donating the proceeds from services such as massage therapy, craniosacral therapy, energy therapies, yoga and Pilates. There will also be a silent auction and 50/50 raffle. Location: 440 S. Reynolds Rd., Ste. D. For more information, call 419-578-4357, email Info@AlternativePhysicalTherapy. com or visit AlternativePhysicalTherapy.com.

CALL TODAY (419) 841-9622 3130 Central Park West Dr. Suite A • Toledo cpwhc.com

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natural awakenings

February 2014

newsbriefs Monroe County Community College Offers Class on Allergies, Autism and ADHD

onroe County Community College is offering the class, Allergies, Autism and ADHD, from 7:45 to 8:45 p.m., February 12, through their Lifelong Learning Program. Certified Health Counselor Theresa Edmunds will talk about the rise in children’s health problems today, how they can be related directly to diet and environment and ways to treat and heal the conditions. Edmunds says food allergies are often a result of a compromised digestive system, which can be healed. “ADHD is a term we hear on a regular basis, but many Theresa Edmunds people may not know that there are alternatives to treating ADHD. Many functional medicine doctors are finding that deficiencies can play a role in behavior and learning problems. We also know that many of these children can be sensitive to chemicals in our environment and our food. Some children also have a genetic component that can be managed effectively,” says Edmunds. Parents struggling with these issues shouldn’t lose hope. “There are therapies, diets and doctors who can treat and even cure these conditions,” advises Edmunds, who educates individuals and families to create wellness through nutrition and natural living principles.

Laughter Can Ease Painful Effects of Cancer

he American Cancer Society (ACS) defines humor therapy as the use of humor for the relief of physical or emotional pain and stress. It is used as a complementary method to promote health and cope with illness. According to the ACS, although available scientific evidence does not support claims that laughter can cure cancer or any other disease, it can reduce stress and enhance a person’s quality of life. Humor has physical effects because it can stimulate the circulatory system, immune system and other systems in the body. Studies have shown that laughing releases the body’s endorphins, which are natural pain killers. Laughing while going through something as devastating as cancer can be hard to imagine. Every day is a new day filled with chemo, radiation, effects of surgery, doctor’s appointments, poking, prodding, crying, anger, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, anxiety, depression, fatigue and last but not least, pain. Yet, laughing can help. Laughter can be thought of as another healing modality that can be added before or after other therapies to enhance the reaction the body will receive from the treatment. Adding laughter before or after treatments like massage or reflexology not only releases more feel-good emotions, but keeps the patient feeling good long after the initial healing treatment is over. Laughter is the kind of modality that stays with them for as long as they need.

Location: 7920 Jackson Rd., Ste. A, Ann Arbor, call 734-769-7794. For more information about the school, visit NaturopathicSchoolofAnnArbor.net.

For more information, contact the Cancer Connection of NW Ohio at 419-725-1100.

Cost: $24; $12/seniors. Location: 1555 S. Raisinville Rd., Monroe, MI. For more information or to register, call 734-384-4127 or visit MonroeCCC.edu/ccs/lifelong.htm.

Natural Remedies Help the Body Nurture Itself urns out our great-grandmothers and grandmothers knew what they were doing when they tucked us in bed with a hot water bottle and kept the house quiet when we were sick with the flu or cold. When the healing process is repressed with a chemical, the body is deprived of using the muscles of the immune system and the innate ability to strengthening its own response to illness. “Natural healing can bring comfort to this timerelease healing process through rest, sleep, warm poultices, soothing herbal elixirs, nourishing, mucus thinning broths and pain relieving nervine herbs,” says Mary Light, naturopathic doctor and director and founder of the Naturopathic School of the Healing Arts in Ann Arbor. Light gives some helpful pathways to comfort, including hot lemon ginger tea, vaporizers with added essential oils, a castor oil pack placed under a hot water bottle, herbal teas, tinctures of herbs such as valerian or skullcap and throat soothers made with flaxseed, honey and peppermint tea.

Toledo/Monroe edition

NaturalAwakeningsToledo.com

Experience the Fun at Motown Winter Blast

he 2014 Motown Winter Blast, which features family fun winter events centered around Campus Martius Park, is set to take place from February 7 to 9. Activities include a 200-foot snow slide, ice skating, professional skating demonstrations, ice sculptures and Photo by www.clwphotography.com live music, with more than 50 acts performing on three stages. Guests can warm up in heated comfort zones located every 150 feet of the site. Motown Winter Blast debuted in 2005 to kickoff the official countdown to Super Bowl XL in Detroit, attracting more than 200,000 people. Winter Blast continues to keep the spirit of Detroit alive with new programs each year designed to promote community service, quality of life, economic impact and fun.

Local Practitioner Designs Therapy Board Game for Children

ennifer Dubow, a therapist in private practice in Toledo, recently designed a therapy game for children to help them manage stress and anxiety in healthy ways. The game can be used by therapists in all settings and is great for teachers and counselors, as well. “Children are reporting greater struggles with anxiety,” explains Dubow. “Anxiety can become so troublesome that it will interfere with the child’s academic success and social interactions. Symptoms of anxiety in children can include verbalizing worries, avoiding activities and school work, difficulty sleeping, difficulty concentrating, frequent headaches, stomach aches, biting nails and lips, excessive crying and irritability.” Stress Quest is a therapeutic board game for children designed to teach coping skills. The game is for children ages 5 to 11 and for two to six players. The game lasts from 15 to 30 minutes. Local children provided a great deal of input in the development of the game. A local artist, Paula Ashley, did the artwork and a local printer in Michigan produced the game. For more information, visit BuyChildTherapyGames.com or contact Jennifer Dubow at JenniferDubow@bex.net or call 419-699-3659.

Cost: $2 or donation of three canned goods or one children’s book. Location: 800 Woodward Ave., Detroit. For more information, visit WinterBlast.com.

To keep the body in good health is a duty... otherwise we shall not be able to keep our mind strong and clear. ~Buddha

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natural awakenings

February 2014

healthbriefs

Myofascial Release Can Relieve Stress and Associated Heart Problems

tress often makes people feel overwhelmed or like they are being pulled in several different directions at once, which can lead to a wide array of symptoms ranging from psychological to physiological. Feelings of frustration, irritability and restlessness are just the beginning of the psychological symptoms, while headaches, migraines and back, shoulder and neck pain are some of the physiological symptoms. If the cause of these symptoms is not alleviated, they compound. Eventually, the symptoms of stress, if not properly managed, can spiral out of control. When people suffer from stress symptoms over a prolonged period of time, they develop fascial restrictions. The fascia is the connective tissue that surrounds and connects all muscles and organs in the body. The fascia transfers information and serves to protect the structures of the body. When a stressor is added to the body, the fascial system adjusts to compensate for it, but this adjustment is only meant to be short term; after prolonged exposure to the stress, a fascial restriction is formed. Fascial restrictions reduce circulation, range of motion, strength, organ function and nerve conduction. The pericardium, the thick fibrous connective tissue surrounding the heart, is actually fascia, therefore, stress can impact the heart in a very physical manner. Imagine the pericardium being constricted with upwards of 2,000 pounds per square inch of pressure, the tensile strength of fascia. It quickly becomes clear how this can cause many different problems with the heart and throughout the body. Myofascial release, a hands-on therapy, releases those crushing restrictions, enabling the body to handle the stress of everyday life without storing it in the body and resulting in dysfunction. Myofascial release can also be used as a preventive measure to take care of many issues before they become problems. For more information or to set up a free consultation, please contact Transformative Health at 419-351-2824 or transformativehealthmfr@gmail.com. 8

Toledo/Monroe edition

NaturalAwakeningsToledo.com

Using Mind-Body Exercise to Control Lymphedema

he lymphatic system is our body’s water treatment center. It filters debris and waste and delivers essential fluid components to the body. It is our immune system, made up of miles of lymph vessels, nodes, ducts and organs. This fluid system transports proteins, hormones and inflammation-fighting blood components throughout the body. Lymphedema occurs when there is a failure in this system, resulting in discomfort and excessive swelling that does not resolve on its own. Primary lymphedema is inherited and can be present at birth, develop at the onset of puberty or later occur in life. Secondary lymphedema is the result of disruption of the system due to illness, injury to the lymph nodes, surgery and lymph node dissection and radiation therapy. Those dealing with lymphedema may also experience increased anxiety, stress, depression and feelings of isolation. Exercise and stress reduction are an important part of prevention. Treatment and maintenance consists of manual lymphatic massage, compression wrapping and exercise. Mind-body exercise, such as qigong, tai chi and yoga, are based on deep breathing, which engages the diaphragm, also known as the “great lymph pump”. The fluid movements assist in activating the key lymph node groups located in the neck, armpits, groin and thoracic duct. These movements cause contractions in the muscles and the deep breathing delivers oxygen, requiring the cells to make energy that aids in propelling lymph fluid from the extremities to the heart. These exercise modalities are appropriate for all levels of fitness and are easily modified to be done in a chair for those unable to stand for an extended period of time, or on the floor for mat yoga. This approach not only bears physical benefits, but also increases quality of life and overall well-being, decreases depression and promotes a positive body image. According to the 2007 National Health Interview Survey, mind and body practices such as massage, qigong, tai chi and yoga are among the top complementary health approaches sought by adults in this country because they are inexpensive and they work. For more information, contact Cindy Vincent, LMT, MLDT, of OCS Wellness Studio at 419-450-4940.

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Early Warnings of Heart Troubles Differ for Women

omen may worry more about breast cancer, but in reality, heart disease is the top killer of American women, claiming 300,000 lives a year, 7.5 times the number that die of breast cancer, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Although heart disease is more often perceived as a men’s issue, since 1984 more women have died of heart disease than men. Part of the reason may be that women’s heart attacks can differ from men’s and the American Heart Association (AHA) warns that women often fail to recognize the symptoms, ranging from torso aches and pains and nausea to anxiety, shortness of breath, dizziness and extreme fatigue. They may experience subtle symptoms for months and write them off as byproducts of menopause, heartburn or effects of aging. The National Institutes of Health states that 43 percent of women that have heart attacks experience no chest pain. The difference between the more subtle signs of a heart attack in women and the more dramatic signs in men may help explain why 75 percent of men, prompted to act quickly, survive a first heart attack, while only 62 percent of women do, according to the AHA. “Research shows that women may not be diagnosed or treated as aggressively as men,” notes the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, part of the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services.

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natural awakenings

February 2014

healthbriefs LARGE STUDY SUPPORTS INTRAVENOUS CHELATION THERAPY FOR HEART DISEASE

lternative doctors have utilized ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) chelation therapy to treat heart and other vascular problems for 60 years, most of the time being ridiculed by conventional cardiologists. However, in March 2013, the American Medical Association journal published a large, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial that provided statistically significant evidence that a series of 30 to 40 chelation treatments can reduce future cardiac events in patients with known heart disease. In the trial, 1,708 patients were treated for three to five years at 134 sites across the country. The study did not define the mechanism of action, but EDTA is already approved to remove lead and other toxic metals that can increase the risk of heart disease. Oral EDTA is so poorly absorbed that it does not have the same effect. Therefore, IVs are usually given weekly over one-and-a-half to four hours in an office setting. Diabetic patients had fewer cardiac events than any other group in the study. A presentation at the November 2013 meeting of the American Heart Association also showed that adding high-dose vitamins to the chelation treatments gets even better results. Opponents of the therapy call for additional studies before chelation is recommended for general use. Experienced chelation therapists, however, suggest that the therapy should now be offered as an option to all cardiovascular patients. Doctors in the Toledo area that provide chelation therapy include Terry Chappell, M.D., Annette Millie, M.D. and James Roberts, M.D. For more information, contact Chappell at Mail@HealthCelebration.com, 419358-4627 or visit HealthCelebration.com. See ad page 19.

Nostalgia Arms Us for the Future

aving lingering fond memories of happy times, once actually thought to be a psychiatric disorder, have now been confirmed as a healthy and, ultimately, positive activity. Most people experience nostalgia at least once a week and nearly half of those surveyed reported experiencing it three or four times a week, say researchers at England’s University of Southampton. When speaking wistfully of the past, individuals are usually reconstructing happy memories of family and friends, and typically become more optimistic about the future, reports lead researcher and Social Psychologist Constantine Sedikides, Ph.D., who observes, “Nostalgia makes us a bit more human.” The Southampton paper, presented to the American Psychological Association, meshes well with another study confirming that nostalgic memories inspire positive feelings of joy, high self-regard, belonging and meaningfulness in life. In two studies, social psychologists at North Dakota State University found that past fond memories help us become more self-confident and cope better in the present. “We see nostalgia as a psychological resource that people can dip into to conjure the evidence they need to assure themselves that they’re valued,” says lead researcher Clay Routledge. 10

Toledo/Monroe edition

NaturalAwakeningsToledo.com

FDA Moves to Ban Trans Fats

eart-clogging trans fatty acids may soon be a thing of the past. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has taken the first step to remove trans fats from its GRAS (generally recognized as safe) list, effectively banning their use in food products. Trans fats, also known as hydrogenated vegetable oils, can be found in many processed foods, including baked goods, microwave popcorn, peanut butter, frozen pizza, margarine and coffee creamers. Created by adding hydrogen to liquid oils to turn them into a solid form, trans fats have been used to improve the texture, shelf life or flavor of foods. For more than a decade, numerous scientific studies have documented that trans fats raise dangerous LDL cholesterol and lower good HDL cholesterol. The FDA’s proposed ban would require the food industry to gradually phase out all trans fats, likely over several months or years, noting their threat to health. Commissioner Margaret Hamburg said the move could prevent 20,000 heart attacks a year and 7,000 deaths. Many food manufacturers have already phased out trans fats since new nutrition labeling requirements were introduced by the FDA in 2006; plus an increasing number of local laws have banned them.

A Different Breathalyzer Test for Heart Failure

imply blowing up a balloon may help doctors test heart function, according to a new study from the Cleveland Clinic. Although such examinations usually require expensive and sometimes invasive procedures, the new test can be done in a doctor’s office in 30 seconds, according to the research findings published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology. The patient simply breathes into a Mylar balloon, similar to a party version, and the air is passed through a machine to produce an individual “breathprint”. Researchers determined that exhaled breath contains volatile organic compounds that can be easily analyzed to determine potential heart failure.

Zinc Orchestrates Immune Response

any have heard that zinc can stop a cold in its tracks, and new research from Ohio State University tells us why; it turns out that zinc gently taps the brakes on immune responses, slowing them down and preventing inflammation from spiraling out of control. The researchers’ work with human cells and animals found that zinc serves to balance the immune response within the cells so that the consequences of insufficient zinc at the time of an infection include excessive inflammation. Of all the zinc contained in our bodies, only about 10 percent of it is readily accessible to help fight off an infection, notes Daren Knoell, professor of pharmacy and internal medicine and lead author of the study, published in Cell Reports. The research team suggests that proper zinc balance is especially important in battling serious and potentially deadly infections. Zinc deficiency affects about 2 billion people worldwide, including an estimated 40 percent of the U.S. elderly.

Happy Marriage, Healthier Lives

University of Missouri expert says that people in happy marriages are more likely to rate their health better than their peers as they age. Evidently, engaging with one’s spouse builds a strong relationship that can improve spirits, promote feelings of well-being and lower stress. Analyzing data from 707 continuously married adults that participated in the Marital Instability Over the Life Course panel study, a 20-year nationwide research project begun in 1980, researchers found that married people have better mental and physical health and are less likely to develop chronic conditions than their unmarried, widowed or divorced peers. Thus, researchers recommended involving spouses and families in treatment for any illness. They further suggested that in cases of a strained marital relationship, improving marital harmony would also improve health.

THE WHOLE FISH IS BEST FOR BLOOD PRESSURE

ver the years, a broad range of research has confirmed that omega-3 fatty acids found in fatty fish like salmon, tuna and sardines promote heart and brain health. Now researchers at the University of Pennsylvania’s Perelman School of Medicine have found that taking fish oil supplements isn’t as effective at keeping blood pressure under control as eating an actual fish. The animal study published in the U.S. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences shows that eating oily fish helped open ion channels, a complex series of membranes in the cells that line blood vessels, letting sodium, calcium and potassium in and out of those crucial cells and helping reduce blood pressure. Because fish oil supplements did not activate the ion channels, they didn’t reduce blood pressure in the same way.

EGG WHITES FUNCTION LIKE BLOOD PRESSURE MEDS

aintaining healthy blood pressure is vital for long-term heart health, and scientists have now discovered evidence that a component of egg whites may have beneficial cardiovascular effects. Researchers from Clemson University, in South Carolina, found that a peptide in egg white, one of the building blocks of proteins, reduces blood pressure in animals about as much as a low dose of Captopril, a prescription medication for high blood pressure. The RVPSL peptide acts as a natural ACE inhibitor, functioning similar to the entire family of prescription medications that treat hypertension.

natural awakenings

February 2014

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

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Many Animals Mate for Life

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Humans like to think of themselves as unique when it comes to taking vows of togetherness. But a surprising number of other species in the animal kingdom provide sterling examples of fidelity, monogamy and lifelong pairing. Gibbons, of the ape family, are the nearest relatives to humans that mate for life. They form extremely strong pairings and both sexes are on relatively equal footing in their relationships. Bald eagles, our national emblem, typically mate for life, except in the event of a partnerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s inability to procreate. Wolves, often portrayed as tricksters in folklore, conduct a family life more loyal than many human relationships. Wolf packs typically comprise a male, a female and their offspring, making them akin to a human nuclear family. Swans form monogamous pair bonds that last for many years or even for life. Their loyalty is so storied that the image of two swans swimming with their necks entwined in the shape of a heart has become a universal symbol of true love. French angelfish are seldom found far from their mate, because they live, travel and even hunt in pairs. The fish form monogamous relationships that often last as long as both individuals are alive. In fact, they act as a team to vigorously defend their territory against neighboring pairs. Other examples include albatrosses, African antelopes, black vultures, Malagasy giant rats, prairie voles, sandhill cranes, termites and, of course, turtle doves. To view images, visit Tinyurl.com/AnimalMatePics and Tinyurl.com/Animal MatesSlideshow.

Sweet Solution

Turning Agri-Waste to Good Use Cement that incorporates waste ash from sugar production is not only stronger than ordinary cement, it also qualifies as a greener building material. Researchers at the Niels Bohr Institute at the University of Copenhagen, in Denmark, have found that cement made with sugar cane ash mixed in is stronger, can withstand higher pressure and crumbles less than ordinary cement. In countries where sugar cane is grown, such as Cuba and Brazil, this agricultural waste product has been added to cement for years. Extracting sugar from the cane typically leaves a lot of fiber waste that is burned into ash, discarded and then requires disposal. Using sugar cane ash also can lower the energy use and carbon footprint of cement production. Heloisa Bordallo, a researcher at the Institute, comments, â&#x20AC;&#x153;You are saving both CO2 emissions and raw materials.â&#x20AC;? Source: EcoSeed.org

Toledo/Monroe edition

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Star Trekking

Voyager 1 Enters Interstellar Space The U.S. National Aeronautics and Space Agency (NASA) recently confirmed that after 36 years, the Voyager 1 probe crossed the boundary of the heliosphere, or the extent of our Sun’s influence, a year ago. It’s the first manmade object to venture into interstellar space. At a distance of about 12 billion miles from the Sun, the latest data indicates that Voyager 1 has been traveling through the plasma, or ionized gas, present in the space between stars. The journal Science notes that this corroborates the existence of a longhypothesized boundary between the solar plasma and the interstellar plasma. Voyager 2, a companion craft launched at the same time, is also expected to break the barrier. Source: EarthSky.org

Loving Local

Small Retailers Gaining Force

“Mommy, he can have my socks.”

“Momm

Green Finance

Canada Shows the Way via Mass Transit The government of Ontario, Canada, is issuing “green bonds” to fund the expansion of mass transit infrastructure in the province. Ontario Premier Kathleen Wynne says, “Green bonds are a great tool to raise capital for a project with specific environmental benefits. The worldwide market for green bonds in the last year has doubled; it’s now estimated to be more than $346 billion in U.S. dollars.”

Hannah’s Socks Box

While online mega-shopping malls have decimated many types of small businesses around the country, the Business Alliance for Local Living Economies notes that independent bookstores are doing surprisingly well. For the last four years, their number and total sales have grown, despite the recent recession. In 2009, citizens patronized 1,651 independent bookstores in the United States; today their number exceeds 1,900. In addition, local coffee shops have grown faster than the largest chain’s storefronts. Bakers and specialty food purveyors, independent pharmacies and pet, fabric and stationery stores are growing, too. One reason for the good news is the “buy local” ethic promoted by groups such as the American Independent Business Alliance. Last year, sales at independent businesses in cities benefitting from these campaigns grew 8.6 percent; those without them still increased 3.4 percent. Independents are winning customer loyalty in part by hosting and sponsoring events that enrich the community. The public is realizing that buying local supports area families, keeps more dollars circulating locally and strengthens a healthy sense of community that benefits everyone.

How one little girl with a big heart is making a world of difference

Source: Treehugger.com

“Mommy, he can have my socks.”

Hannah’s Box Hannah’s Socks Socks Box

Source: YesMagazine.org

Greenwashing WatchdogCare. Dr. Bronner Clears Out Imposters

Share. Give a Pair!

The nonprofit manufacturer of Dr. Bronner’s MagPlease donate new socks and underwear in men’s, ic Soaps (DrBronner.com), known in the U.S. for women’s Care. and children’s sizes aforPair! distribution more than 50 years for its devotion to purity and Share. Give information-crammed product labels, has taken to homeless and domestic-abuse shelters Care. Share. Give aand Pair! PleasePlease donate new socksnew underwear in men’s, donate socks to filing lawsuits against companies that don’t How one and little girl women’s and children’s sizes for distribution underwear in men’s, women’s and live up to health claims or that employ deceptive Please donate socks and underwear in men’s, to homeless and domestic-abuse shelters with a new big heart is making

greenwashing tactics. One primary focus is the cosmetics industry’s use of so-called “organic” ingredients. Company president David Bronner reports, “About 80 percent of these companies simply dropped their claims; the others reformulated.” He also lobbies for labeling of genetically modified organisms (GMO) in Washington State.

Ho with a a w

children’s sizes forsizes distribution to women’s and children’s for distribution a world of difference to homeless domestic-abuse shelters homeless andand domestic-abuse shelters Have questions or need help? Call 419-931-4757.

Have questions or need 419-931-4757. Have questions or need help? help? CallCall 419-931-4757.

Source: Worldwatch.com natural awakenings

February 2014

editorial calendar

2014

globalbriefs Handy Curriculum

JANUARY

health & wellness

Shop Class Teaches Sustainability

plus: health coaches FEBRUARY

rethinking heart health plus: stress relief MARCH

food & garden

plus: gluten-free foods APRIL

green living

plus: healthy home MAY

women’s wellness plus: bodywork JUNE

inspired living

plus: men’s wellness JULY

food watch

plus: natural medicine cabinet

According to a report in The Boston Globe, some American schools regret that they replaced woodshops with high-tech educational forums in the 1990s. Shop class is valuable for students that may underperform in traditional academic settings and empowers them to learn and produce tangible results. Doug Stowe, a woodworker and teacher in Eureka Springs, Arkansas, writes in WisdomOfHands.Blogspot.ca, “Our society has inadvertently created a dependent generation of young people that don’t know how to fix things and lack even the most basic manual competence. Putting girls and boys into shop class would challenge rampant consumerism because a person is less inclined to throw out a piece of furniture and buy a replacement if they know how to fix it. “With so many cheap imports flooding stores, it’s difficult for students to gain perspective on the resources and time required to create a piece of furniture, so shop class can teach students to appreciate long-lasting quality and its accompanying fair price tag. In this way, shop class is linked to sustainability.” Source: Treehugger.com

AUGUST

transformative education plus: children’s health SEPTEMBER

Numbers Explode with Ocean Warming and Overfishing

conscious caretaking plus: yoga

OCTOBER

sustainable communities plus: chiropractic and acupuncture NOVEMBER

personal empowerment plus: beauty

DECEMBER

awakening humanity plus: holiday themes

Jumpin’ Jellyfish

Favorite destination beach resorts around the world have seen huge increases in jellyfish “bloom” activity. “Jellyfish and tourism are not happy bedfellows,” says Dr. Lisa-ann Gershwin, Ph.D., a pioneering marine biologist and author of Stung! On Jellyfish Blooms and the Future of the Ocean. “In Florida, it’s not uncommon in recent years for a half a million people to be stung during an outbreak.” A report, Review of Jellyfish Blooms in the Mediterranean and Black Sea, written by Fernando Borea for the General Fisheries Commission for the Mediterranean and the United Nations, cites both global warming and overfishing, which removes jellyfish predators, as causes for recent jellyfish population explosions. Of the more than 2,000 species of jellyfish swimming through the world’s waters, most are completely harmless. However, human contact with some types can cause excruciating pain, and the box jellyfish is among the handful of species that have caused fatalities around the globe. Gershwin says, “Australia is upfront about its jellyfish dangers and also assertive in safety management, whereas other places have them, but may understand less about them or in some cases, just don’t want to say. Tourists need to be aware of local hazards and not expect to necessarily be provided with pertinent information.” Source: CNN

Toledo/Monroe edition

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ecotip

kudos

Beyond Bling

WGCU Public Media has recognized Natural Awakenings founder Sharon Bruckman as one of its 14 exceptional women for 2014 Makers: Women Who Make Southwest Florida. The Sharon Bruckman, award coincides CEO/Publisher with the magazine’s celebration of 20 Years in Publication, a milestone recognized nationwide.

True Treasures Avert Eco-Harm Done right, Valentine’s Day and gifts of jewelry go together like love and marriage. Those that have no desire to support the unsafe worker conditions, widespread price fixing and waste associated with gold mining, also linked to pollution, financing wars and terrorism, look for better options. They wish to have no part in underwriting standard ring-making practices which, according to the Worldwatch Institute, create tons of toxic mining waste that can persist for decades and enter the food chain. Happily, there are far more ethical choices. Alternate routes. Among many sustainable and socially responsible options, jewelry made from recycled gold, silver and titanium plus synthetic gemstones is offered by GreenKarat (GreenKarat.com) while Brilliant Earth (BrilliantEarth.com) provides antiques and also custom makes or helps customers create their own treasured gifts utilizing minerals from pure sources; the company also donates 5 percent of its profits to support communities that have suffered from unethical industry practices. Heirlooms. A son or grandson gifting a grandmother’s or mother’s cherished piece of jewelry to a spouse or girlfriend expresses a tradition of love and family connectivity, plus gives new life to precious items. Michelle Ercanbrack, a family historian at Ancestry.com, recommends using a family-treasured diamond in a more modern setting or making a ring into a pendant. “Heirlooms link the present to the past—they are part of a family narrative that can increase the present generation’s sense of belonging and identity,” she says. Native American jewelry. Deborah Nelson, owner of Silver Eagle Gallery, in Naples, Florida, and Highlands, North Carolina, attests that artful jewelry by Native Americans supports their culture and forges a connection to Americana with timeless appeal. Bracelets made by Navajo Indians incorporate turquoise pieces often linked together or set in mosaic form on a sterling band. Sterling silver and golden amber sunburst rings also make good gifts. “The handmade attention to detail is a stark contrast to what’s cast in a mold overseas,” says Nelson.

We Focus on Posture Not Poses. Hot YogAlign with Joe classes are postural based movement exercises that range from beginner to intermediate level done in a humid room.

Joe Sparks, LMT

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www.HotYogAlignWithJoe.com joe.sparks@toast.net

(419) 345-0885

A loving heart is the beginning of all knowledge. ~Thomas Carlyle

Isn’t It Time?

To Schedule Your Massage Specializing in: • Certified Rossiter Coach • Therapeutic Massage • Relaxation Massage

We do not believe in using force, we practice Ahimsa, compassion and caring to gently and intelligently transform ourselves. An hour session at this temperature promotes sweating and makes the body very warm, relaxed and therefore, naturally more flexible and strong. At the end of the session you will feel aligned, with your body moving and breathing with less effort, less tension, and no PAIN! So, you can have your kid-like flexibility back! We want your whole mind and body involved in this process, not parts. — Aloha & Namaste, Joe

For more information and to connect, visit NaturalAwakeningsMag.com.

Before and After photos after my YogAlign Teachers Training in Kauai

March 11th - April 19th 2013.

Please read about Michaelle Edwards in the New York Times article: Women’s Flexibility is a Liability (in Yoga)

Helping People Live Healthier and Happier

Angi McRobbie, L.M.T. Licensed by the Ohio State Medical Board

5215 Monroe St. • Sylvania www.facebook.com/angela.mcrobbielmt

(419) 680-0474 angimaclmt@gmail.com

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February 2014

businessspotlight

Lisa Kelly

The Center at Alternative Physical Therapy Makes the Impossible Possible

“

rom impossible to possible, from possible to ease, from ease to grace, and no skipping steps,” is the saying emblazoned on a wall at the Center at Alternative Physical Therapy, in Toledo. Owner Lisa Kelly (Lutman), physical therapist, certified strength and conditioning instructor and certified neuro-development treatment (NDT) therapist, strives to exceed the limitations of basic physical therapy and to improve patients’ quality of life. “Our goal is to improve life and restore quality of life by addressing pain and movement issues,” says Kelly. “Here at the Center, we have a variety of tools we use, both traditional and alternative, to help people get back to the ease of movement, regardless of their pain or mobility issues. We try to make things possible for all people.” Kelly opened the Center in 2002 to address the need that arises when complex patients plateau with traditional therapy. With almost 35 years

Toledo/Monroe edition

of experience and specialty training in several areas, she has the ability to understand the needs and issues of complex medical patients to give them a better chance for improvement with no plateau. One of the areas she specializes in at the Center is using a combination of NDT and craniosacral therapy to bridge the gap between the results from regular therapy and the results the patient desires. “NDT, neuro-developmental treatment, is used primarily for patients who suffer from neurological challenges such as stroke, head injury or spinal injury. It is a hands-on approach that helps to improve awareness of the body and motor skills. Craniosacral therapy also helps improve body awareness and one’s ability to control their body. It is a manual therapeutic procedure that is myofascial release at its deepest level and can even help with conditions like neuropathy or migraines,” explains Kelly. “Using both of these therapies together creates

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exceptional results for patients.” The Center provides traditional physical therapy with a holistic approach in a spa-like medical atmosphere. Decorated private treatment rooms offer a one-on-one experience between patient and therapist. The facility has a physical therapy gym that includes rehabilitation equipment such as a harness-supported treadmill and a standing table. The Center also offers aquatic therapy; the pool, however, is located in a different facility. In addition to traditional physical therapy, neurological therapy and aquatic therapy, the Center offers a range of alternative services that include craniosacral therapy, Reiki, healing touch, medical massage, emotional release work, zero balancing, visceral manipulation, dynamic myofascial release, lymph drainage, hypnosis, yoga, Pilates and more. Most patients do not need a prescription to benefit from services at the Center. Some therapies can be billed to insurance, depending on the diagnosis. The staff will help advise patients on their options and the recommended course of treatment. Kelly also has created a series of educational videos on keeping bodies in motion that people can watch from the comfort of their own home. The videos can be accessed from ToledoBizConnectTV.com/Lisa-Kelly-PhysicalTherapist-csci. The Center is also sponsoring a fundraiser, Have a Heart for Max Clark, for one of their patients from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., February 8, at the Center. Clark is an 18-year-old who suffered from a virus that attacked his brain. The Center is donating the proceeds from services toward the purchase of a handicapped van for him. More information can be found in the news brief on page 5. The Center at Alternative Physical Therapy is located at 440 S. Reynolds Rd., Ste. D, in Toledo, OH. For more information, call 419-578-4357, email Info@AlternativePhysicalTherapy.com or visit AlternativePhysicalTherapy.com. See ad page 17.

inspiration

communing with the divine and see the effect both within and without. I am sorry for participating in this erroneous memory data. Please forgive me for not seeing the perfection in this moment, and playing back a universal memory I have received within me that is riddled with wrongs and errors. Thank you for cleansing me, others, the world and the universe.

HEALING HURT A Hawaiian Mantra Lets Love Back In H

o’oponopono is an ancient Hawaiian huna, a secret to facilitating forgiveness within; or simply, the art of forgiveness. Four healing phrases are employed in a harmonic mantra to help “make things right” or “correct the errors”. It works to cleanse hurt feelings and relieve suffering from being in an unforgiving or unforgiven state. According to the Babylon online dictionary, Ho’oponopono is used to release problems and blocks that cause imbalance, unease and stress in the self; bring peace and balance through physical, mental

and spiritual cleansing that involves repentance and transmutation; and create balance, freedom, love, peace and wisdom within individuals, social entities, the world and the universe. Ho’oponopono Forgiveness Mantra I am sorry. Please forgive me. Thank you. I love you. These four forgiveness phrases, both individually and collectively, help heal us and our relationships with others, especially loved ones. Each one melts hearts and heals souls. Going deeper, we can voice this mantra in

I love you. Loving the sweet divine is the greatest power or energy there is in all space. I am now loving everyone involved and affected. I know that my perceptions of them are within me, where this error first occurred and where it can be eradicated. Like planting a seed in soil that grows into nothing of our making, the divine does the work as we allow it to work through us. As we come to consistently use the Ho’oponopono mantra, we may elect to select a special word as a substitute for the whole mantra to use as a touchstone, so that when we say or think this word, we are immediately clear and clean of all the pain associated with any erroneous memory data presented. Our heart is healed and family or friends will return to relationships with a lighter heart. We do not need to understand how it works, only that it does. Source: Adapted from VividLife.me

Call For A Free Wellness Consultation Essential Connection, Ltd. Karla Gleason, IPC# 224532

419-265-3219 gleason.karla@gmail.com www.essential-connection.myoilproducts.com natural awakenings

February 2014

RETHINKING HEART HEALTH Pioneering Doctors and Patients Reinvent Cardio Care by Linda Sechrist

n 1977, Dr. Dean Ornish began to think beyond an allopathic medicine paradigm that defined the reversal of cardiovascular disease, including coronary heart disease (CHD) and the hypertensive diseases such as heart failure and stroke, as physiologically implausible. Undaunted by the challenge of funding his research, he pushed forward. Results of his foundational 1986 to 1992 Lifestyle Heart Trial, published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, proved that individuals with preexisting coronary atherosclerosis that make intensive, integrated lifestyle changes can begin to experience improvements in their condition after as little as one year without using lipid-lowering drugs. Based on his 30-plus years of clinical research, Ornish and his colleagues further showed that five years of following proper nutrition, fitness and stress

Toledo/Monroe edition

management—which must include love and support—can reduce symptoms of CHD and other chronic conditions. He remarks in Love & Survival: 8 Pathways to Intimacy and Health that despite numerous studies showing a medical basis for its occurrence, the reason why CHD is reversible is still the subject of debate. Ornish’s work has paved the way for a growing corps of pioneering integrative physicians successfully collaborating with patients to reduce the leading cause of death for men and women in the United States.

Plaque the Culprit

The cause of cardiovascular disease is arterial plaque, a fine layer of fatty material that forms within the arteries and blocks blood flow. It is largely the result of food and activity choices, plus the degree of inflammation in the arteries. Dr. Steven Masley’s three keys

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to improving heart health highlighted in his book, The 30-Day Heart Tune-Up, and an upcoming PBS special, concern lifestyle factors capable of shrinking plaque, improving circulation and strengthening the heartbeat. “Abnormal plaque growth is preventable 90 percent of the time,” states the president of Masley Optimal Health Center, in St. Petersburg, Florida. While conducting research on the heart health of nearly 1,000 patients over a period of 20 years, Masley suspected that the traditional assessment approach of measuring cholesterol, blood sugar and blood pressure didn’t effectively address the biochemistry within arteries. Testing intima-media thickness (IMT) using a simple 10-minute external ultrasound confirmed it. The test bounces high-frequency sound waves to measure the thickness of the carotid arteries’ innermost two layers on either side of the neck. “This valuable tool allows for an estimate of arterial age. A healthy, young cardiovascular system has less plaque and an unhealthy, old one has more,” advises Masley. IMT, a useful tool for preventing future heart attacks and strokes, differs from standard carotid Doppler ultrasound, which looks for artery obstructions suggesting surgery. A practitioner of functional medicine, Masley explains heart-related diagnoses differently than his allopathic counterparts. “Rather than diagnosing high blood pressure as hypertension, I categorize it as not enough exercise, not enough fruits and vegetables, high emotional stress and excessive body fat.” To optimize heart health, Masley employs a broad, holistic matrix of options that enhance the cardiovascular system—the interactions among diet, activity level, weight, environmental toxins, hormones, stress and biochemical factors such as blood sugar control and inflammation levels. He prescribes heart-healing foods that simultaneously help to manage the aging process, following a customized, heart-friendly supplement plan; engaging in exercise that strengthens the heart and arteries; and learning how to better manage stress. He contends that cardiovascular events remain the top cause of death

Love and intimacy are at the root of what makes us sick and what makes us well, what causes sadness and what brings happiness, what makes us suffer and what leads to healing. ~ Dr. Dean Ornish, Love & Survival because individuals are largely unaware of treatment options before they get into trouble. More, “Most people falsely assume that their condition has been fixed with a medical procedure and/or drugs, and that a lifestyle change isn’t necessary.”

Cholesterol’s Bad Rap

Dr. Stephen Sinatra, an integrative cardiologist, anti-aging specialist and bioenergetics psychotherapist in Manchester, Connecticut, has also shifted his heart health paradigm. He now prescribes a combination of conventional medicine, food, supplements, mind/body strategies and natural healing methods. His book, Heartbreak and Heart Disease: A Mind/Body Prescription for Healing the Heart, relates many inspiring case histories that address the psycho-emotional component of heart health and illustrate how to repair and reopen a broken heart by releasing long-repressed emotions. Following two years of Gestalt psychotherapy training and seven years of bioenergetics training, Sinatra likewise

realized that heartbreak was one of the major causes of heart disease. An expert in the field of natural cardiology, he had once believed that cholesterol and fat were the primary causes before 40 years of treatment research taught him otherwise. “Cholesterol is not the reason for heart disease,” advises Sinatra, founder of HeartMDInstitute.com and author of The Great Cholesterol Myth. “The body produces and needs cholesterol to convert sunlight to vitamin D, to make sex hormones, vital semipermeable membranes for the body’s trillions of cells, plus bile salts for digestion. Even your brain makes and uses cholesterol to build connections between the neurons that facilitate learning and memory.”

Real Perpetrators

Sinatra names the real perpetrators of heart disease—stress, inflammation and overeating sugar and processed foods containing saturated fat. He counsels that the heart benefits less from a lowfat, high-carbohydrate diet than one

low in carbohydrates and higher in healthy fats, overturning widespread medical mantras. Also, a high-fructose, high-grain carbohydrate diet raises triglycerides, increases the risk of metabolic syndrome and contributes to insulin resistance, causing the liver to produce more cholesterol, as well as more inflammatory, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL) particles, all of which increase the risk for CHD, diabetes and stroke. The American Heart Association (AHA) estimates that metabolic syndrome, which affects nearly 35 percent of American adults, may overtake smoking as the leading risk factor for CHD. The AHA currently is focused on increasing awareness that heart disease is the number one killer of women. Its Go Red for Women campaign emphasizes the vital need to take preventive basic actions, including adopting an exercise routine, healthier diet and doctor visits for appropriate non-invasive tests.

Essential Spirit

Dr. James Forleo, a chiropractor in Durango, Colorado, with 30-plus years of clinical experience, maintains that health is simple, disease is complicated (also the title of his book). He counsels patients, “If mental stress is present in your life, you owe it to your cardiovascular system to change to a healthier lifestyle. Your life may depend on it.”

natural awakenings

February 2014

Forleo has recognized that an individual’s state of mind can be a big help or hindrance in maintaining a healthy heart. “The heart represents a different realm of experience entirely, one that cannot be explained by logic and reason,” comments Forleo. He champions the link between maintaining normal spinal function and healthy heart function, along with supporting the inner presence of Spirit, which he calls the healthy heart’s ultimate elixir. “Its essence relaxes the heart, opens the mind to possibilities greater than itself and provides the perspective that the heart and the mind are complementary,” he observes. He explains that when our emotions get bottled up, something in our heart or circulation has to give. “If you or someone you know experiences heart problems, chances are that unresolved emotions lie directly below the surface,” he says. “There are exceptions, and genetic problems can explain many heart defects, but heart problems don’t usually show up unless emotions are involved.” Forleo’s concept is supported by the work of Rollin McCraty, Ph.D., executive vice president and director of research at California’s Institute of HeartMath. His research papers include The Energetic Heart: Bioelectromagnetic Interactions Within and Between People. “Today, evidence suggests that the

It is no coincidence that we address our physical and emotional heart by the same name. Our physical heart usually reflects the state of our emotional heart, and vice versa. ~ Dr. James Forleo heart may play a particularly important role in emotional experience. Research in the relatively new discipline of neurocardiology has confirmed that the heart is a sensory organ and acts as a sophisticated information encoding and processing center that learns, remembers and makes independent functional decisions that don’t involve the cerebral cortex,” advises McCraty.

To Happy Hearts

Pioneering integrative medical doctors Masley, Sinatra, Forleo and Mona Lisa Schultz, who also holds a Ph.D. in behavioral neuroscience, agree that in matters of heart disease, emotions take center stage. Schultz, who recently co-authored All is Well: Heal Your Body with Medicine, Affirmations and Intuition, with Louise L. Hay, a leading founder of the self-help movement, applies her 25 years of experience as a medical intuitive with the best of Western clinical science, brain research and energy medicine. Shultz observes, “Every illness has an emotional component, which tells us intuitively that something or some-

Total Body Fitness

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one in our life or environment is out of balance and needs to be addressed. Our use of language—such as frustration makes our heart race, anger boils our blood—and our common sense are telling us what we don’t need more studies to confirm. If we can’t deal with our anger in a timely fashion, name our feelings, respond effectively and release them, we increase our chance of illness, ranging from hypertension to cardiovascular events.” According to the American Journal of Cardiology, the U.S. spends 10 percent of all healthcare dollars for cardiovascular disease prevention and medical management versus 90 percent on medical treatment procedures and hospital care. For individuals interested in taking charge of their heart health, working with a physician that embraces the emerging paradigm of integrative lifestyle changes and prevention can be a drug-free, lifesaving decision. Linda Sechrist is the senior staff writer for Natural Awakenings. Visit ItsAllAboutWe.com for full interviews.

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healthykids

Quiet Kids in a Noisy World

Bringing Out the Best in Introverts by Meredith Montgomery

abrielle Perillo’s daughter, A’ngel, 11, is a deep thinker, compassionate for all beings (human and not), a defender of justice, spiritual and extremely creative. She pursues any subject she studies with focus and passion. Although other children are naturally drawn to her, A’ngel, a born introvert, generally prefers to play quietly on her own. At first, her mother worried that her daughter was being insensitive to others and not paying attention to her surroundings. But once Mom released her own emotional projections, she recognized how happy her daughter is in her own space and began to appreciate the benefits of this independence. At least a third of Americans are introverts, yet many parents are prone to mischaracterize their more private children as antisocial, self-centered and lonely. Susan Cain, a former corporate attorney and author of Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking, explains, “Introverts are not antisocial, they just prefer socializing in lower-key ways.” They usually form a few deep and intimate relationships compared to extroverts that often cultivate many friends. Christine Fonseca, an educational psychologist and author of Quiet Kids, notes the danger in misunderstanding a child’s hesitancy or reserved nature. “Kids can benefit from understanding who they are and what it means to be an introvert. Otherwise, they may compare themselves to their extrovert friends and feel deficient.” Introverts own many exceptional qualities. They tend to be deep thinkers able to work independently in highly creative and innovative ways. They may prefer to learn a lot

about a few topics instead of a little about many different areas. Often described as empathetic, conscientious and self-aware, introverts make authentic leaders and effective managers as adults. Introvert and extrovert temperaments are distinguished by how individuals generate energy. Introverts process the world and recharge through solitude; many can flourish in social situations as long as they can rejuvenate by being on their own. Fonseca notes a defining difference in physiology. “Introverts use part of the nervous system that has a long pathway from point A to point B, so it takes them longer to process information.” Cain adds, “Introverts also usually have a longer runway than others, so it takes them longer to take off and fly. It’s crucial that the message they’re receiving from parents and teachers is, ‘That’s okay.’” It’s important that parents balance how they honor a child’s preferences with teaching them skills to thrive. “Don’t expect them to follow the gang,” says Cain. “Instead, encourage them to follow their passions.” Parents can empower children with tools to increase their comfort zone. If youngsters have difficulty speaking up in class, it helps to prepare them with what they want to say beforehand. Cain notes that this lessens anxiety and when they are able to speak up, they’ll feel like part of the class. Simple tips can offer relief in uncomfortable social situations. Perillo reinforces social manners before she and A’ngel arrive at an event. She focuses on the greetings, reminding her to extend her hand first, speak clearly, make eye contact and smile. Also, because self-promotion doesn’t come naturally to introverts, they often need coaching to highlight their own assets when applying for a club, college or job. Fonseca encourages families to embrace digital technology. She observes, “Most introverts are extroverts online. While face-to-face communication tends to drain them, that doesn’t happen as much online, plus it’s easier to feel more adept socially there.” They’ll still need to disconnect and renew after socializing online, so it’s important to set usage boundaries. Fonseca, who has one introverted and one extroverted child, facilitates dialogue that teaches each of them to communicate with their peers about their needs. “My introvert tells her extrovert friends not to take offense if she needs to take quiet time alone. They offer each other a perspective that makes their own point of view more well-rounded.” From a neuropsychological perspective, introverts and extroverts can learn from each other, as well. According to Fonseca, extroverts that habitually activate their sympathetic nervous system (“fight-or-flight”) can experience burnout if they don’t learn how to slow down and be calm. However, introverts, relying mostly on their parasympathetic system (“rest and digest”), can be overly calm and slow to respond to situations. Fonseca notes, “It’s not about one temperament being more positive than the other; it’s about understanding who everyone is, their authentic self and finding balance.” Meredith Montgomery is the publisher of Natural Awakenings Mobile/Baldwin, AL (HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com). natural awakenings

February 2014

healingways

Simple Stress Busters Natural Ways to Slide into a State of Calmness by Kathleen Barnes

e all encounter everyday stressors and usually find our own ways of defusing them. However, when chronic stress remains unresolved, it extracts a toll on health that may range from heart disease and stroke to obesity, gastrointestinal problems and depression. Thankfully, Natural Awakenings has uncovered inviting ways to regularly de-stress that naturally make us feel good. Here are some refreshing ideas for immediate rest and relaxation. Eat Mindfully. Chocolate can be an excellent antidote to stress-related binge eating, advises Dr. Susan Lord, an integrative physician in Great Bar-

rington, Massachusetts, who leads mind-body medicine programs at the Kripalu Center for Yoga & Health, in Stockbridge. “We rarely eat mindfully,” comments Lord. “We’re usually gulping down our food while watching TV, arguing with the kids or reading a book.” She often leads a meditation in which participants are allotted one small piece of chocolate that they must eat slowly and consciously. “Most people discover they have never really tasted their food,” she says. “They are pleasantly surprised to discover that they feel satiated and satisfied on every level.” Lord’s teaching is supported by a study from an Oregon Research Institute affiliate in Albuquerque, New

Mexico, showing that people lost significant amounts of weight by eating slowly and mindfully. Accordingly, Kripalu has encouraged eating in silence for nearly 40 years, a practice Lord heartily recommends to her patients for one meal a day. Walk a labyrinth. A meditative walk on a labyrinth may be just what the doctor ordered, says physician Esther Sternberg, professor of medicine and research director at the Arizona Center for Integrative Medicine at the University of Arizona, in Tucson. “A labyrinth differs from a maze, which has high walls and many dead ends,” notes Sternberg. “Walking a maze is inevitably stressful; a labyrinth has the exact opposite effect. There is only one path in and one path out. You go to the middle, meditate and walk back out. It’s a perfectly calming walking meditation.” In physiological terms, Sternberg explains, the deep breathing induced by labyrinth walking activates the vagus nerve, which prompts relaxation. It does this by interrupting the brain’s stress response and halting the release of adrenaline and the stress hormone cortisol from the adrenal glands. Our ancestors built labyrinths as early as 4,000 BCE. They exist today in churches, healing centers and backyards all over the world. Finger labyrinths, even as simple as an outline printed on a piece of paper, also have proved to be effective relaxation tools, says Neal

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Harris, a licensed clinical professional counselor in Barrington, Illinois. His study confirming its relaxing effects was published in the Annals of Psychotherapy & Integrative Health. Shake (or laugh) it off. Anyone that has ever felt like exploding from tight shoulders, indigestion, headaches or other conditions caused by accumulated stress can benefit from Lord’s recommendation to experience a whole-body shake. “Just stand with your feet firmly planted and start shaking—first your feet, then your legs, arms, head and neck and eventually, your whole body—for at least two or three minutes,” she counsels. “You’ll shake off all of that tension, energize every cell and probably start laughing, another great stress reliever.” A good belly laugh is likewise a powerful stress reliever, according to a study by researchers at Indiana State University, in Terra Haute, published in Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine. Results also showed that laughter increased production of the protective cells that boost immune function. Create a memory garden. For Sternberg, her personal place of peace is an unconscious re-creation combining the sights and smells of her grand-

mother’s garden with the comfortable “at home” feeling of her parents’ deck and mementos from a happy time in Crete. At the center of Sternberg’s happy memories are fragrant jasmine and gardenia trees, lavender and basil, all reminders of happy times in her life. She recalls, “It wasn’t until I was finished that I realized what I had done.” A review of relevant science reported in Neural Plasticity explains that the brain’s hippocampus region, a seat of memory, especially related to place, also normally regulates the production of cortisol. But an excess of cortisol due to stress can impair its memory functions. “When we are in a place that brings happy memories to mind, we let go of stress and stop the release of cortisol,” says Sternberg. “It helps to just think of a place where we have been happy.” She recommends creating a home space with some plants on a windowsill, photos of happy family gatherings, fabrics or paint in beloved colors and perhaps inherited items that trigger fond memories. Kathleen Barnes is the author of numerous natural health books, including 10 Best Ways to Manage Stress. Connect at KathleenBarnes.com.

Music Soothes the Soul Dozens of studies from leading institutions like Brandeis University, in Waltham, Massachusetts, the Elizabeth Seton Pediatric Center, in Yonkers, New York, and Colorado State University, in Fort Collins, show that music can offset stress, relieve pain, lower blood pressure, improve immune function and support restful sleep. So play a tune or two of much-loved music and let the calming effects induce a state of relaxation. According to research from the American Society of Hypertension, classical music, the blues and other soothing music work best because they cause the body to release endorphins and slow breathing rates. It’s better yet if our favorite music inspires stress-releasing body movement.

Breathe Deeply Perform this subtle de-stressor while in line at the market or driving. It slows heart rate, oxygenates the body, improves mental clarity and has a relaxing effect on the nervous system. n Sit or stand straight. n Put the tip of the tongue against the ridge of tissue just behind the upper front teeth, and keep it there throughout the entire exercise. n Inhale through the nose for a count of four. n Hold each breath for a count of seven. n Exhale completely through the mouth with a whoosh sound for a count of eight. n Repeat three more times. Source: DrWeil.com

Gestures, in love,

are incomparably more attractive, effective and valuable than words. ~ François Rabelais

Source: GreenMedInfo.com

natural awakenings

February 2014

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CHOCOLATE AS HEALTH FOOD Boosting Diets and Heart Health

Toledo/Monroe edition

“

esearch tells us that 14 out of any 10 individuals like chocolate,” quips cartoonist Sandra Boynton. American chocolate lovers buy 58 million-plus pounds around Valentine’s Day, according to Nielsen Research. Ideally, the dark treat would be as healthy as a salad or an apple. Fortunately, accumulating research is on the way to giving plant-based chocolate superfood status. All chocolate starts with cacao beans, seeds from the pods of the tropical cacao tree that thrives only in hot, rainy climates in Africa, Indonesia and South America. Local soil and climate conditions determine flavor characteristics, much as with grapes. Harvested beans are fermented to create the chocolate taste and then dried. Afterwards, chocolate makers add brand-specific ingredients to the cacao solids. “The percentage number on a bar’s wrapper represents the weight that actually comes from the cacao bean content,” says Robert L. Wolke, professor emeritus of chemistry at the University of Pittsburgh and author of

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What Einstein Told His Cook: Kitchen Science Explained. “The higher the number, the lower the percentage of sugar and the less sweet, more bitter and complex the flavor.” This is significant because dark chocolate contains higher levels of antioxidants which can help reduce cell damage, according to the Integrative Medicine Department at the University of Michigan, in Ann Arbor. Alex Whitmore, founder of Taza Chocolate, in Somerville, Massachusetts, recently had one of its bars lab tested for antioxidant levels, called ORAC, or oxygen radical absorption capacity; the higher the value, the more antioxidants. Taza Chocolate’s 80% Dark Bar had a 65 percent higher ORAC than Himalayan goji berries, famed for being a superfood. “This is very high for a chocolate bar,” notes Whitmore. Cocoa also serves as a superfood for cardiovascular and metabolic health, report two recent studies from separate teams of Harvard School of Public Health researchers. A 2012 meta-analysis of clinical trials published

in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition concluded that consuming dark, unsweetened cocoa powder and dark chocolate can improve blood pressure, vascular dilation and cholesterol levels, plus reduce metabolic precursors like diabetes that can lead to heart disease. In 2011, Eric Ding, Ph.D., a Harvard School of Public Health epidemiologist and nutrition scientist, reviewed short-term trials of subjects ingesting 400 to 500 mg per day of flavonoid-rich cocoa, which he equates to 33 bars of milk chocolate or eight bars of dark chocolate. While Ding feels this is an unreasonable amount to eat because of the extra calories from sugar and fat, he states, “Supplements with concentrated cocoa flavonoids may perhaps be helpful for garnering the benefits discovered. The key is getting the benefits for heart disease while avoiding the calories, and for that, chocolate bars are not likely the best solution.” Another observational study published in Nutrition shows that eating dark chocolate might help keep the pounds off for teenagers. Researchers with the Healthy Lifestyle in Europe by Nutrition in Adolescence program at the University of Zaragoza, in Spain, knew that chocolate consumption in adults already had been linked to lower body mass index. They found that chocolate consumption was also associated with lower total and midsection fat in European adolescents, reports Sayer Ji, founder of GreenMedInfo.com, a natural health research database. “The quality and cocoa content they used in their research is probably much higher than in America,” says Ji. “From my perspective, it appears that even when researchers don’t control for type, the results across the board are rather startling. Even American subjects, presumably eating common milk chocolate bars, see benefits.” So, this Valentine’s Day—and every day—we can happily relish that one-ounce piece of artisan dark chocolate melting slowly in our mouth and know we’re doing it for pleasure and for health. Judith Fertig blogs at AlfrescoFoodAnd Lifestyle.blogspot.com from Overland Park, KS.

Chocolate Cookery Vegan Chocolate Pie

Serve this with fresh raspberries and enjoy a little romance. Yields 8 servings Chocolate Wafer Crust 6½ oz dairy-free chocolate wafer cookies, crushed into fine crumbs 1 Tbsp maple or date sugar 3 oz vegan buttery stick (such as Earth Balance), melted and slightly cooled Chocolate Filling 13 oz dairy-free semisweet chocolate chips (such as Ghirardelli) 1 /3 cup strong brewed coffee 1 tsp vanilla extract 1 lb silken tofu, drained 1 Tbsp agave 1 (9-in) prepared chocolate wafer crust Preheat the oven to 350° F. For the crust, combine the cookie crumbs, sugar and melted vegan buttery stick. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom, up the sides and just over the lip of a 9-inch metal pie pan. Bake on the middle rack of the oven until the crust is set and appears dry, 18 to 20 minutes. Remove from the oven and cool completely, about 1 hour.

For the filling, melt the chocolate chips with the coffee and vanilla in a medium metal bowl set over a saucepan of simmering water, stirring often with a spatula. Combine the tofu, melted chocolate mixture and agave in a blender or food processor until smooth, about 1 minute. Pour the filling into the crust and refrigerate for 2 hours or until the filling becomes firm.

Vegan Hot Chocolate

A comforting way to enjoy the benefits of chocolate on a cold day. Yields 4 servings 2½ cups plain rice milk 3 Tbsp maple or date sugar 3 Tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder ½ tsp salt ½ tsp vanilla extract 1 pinch ground cinnamon 1 pinch cayenne pepper Bring the rice milk, sugar, cocoa powder, salt, vanilla extract, cinnamon and cayenne pepper to a simmer in a saucepan over medium-high heat. Remove from the heat and whisk until frothy. Serve immediately. Source: Recipes courtesy of Judith Fertig

Chocolate Artistry Small-batch, artisan chocolate makers strive to make delicious chocolate in the purest, most ethical and sustainable ways possible. They often travel to meet the growers to source the best cacao beans (organic preferred), use fair trade principles and take a personal interest in making fine chocolate without filler ingredients. Here is a partial list of conscientious members of Craft Chocolate Makers of America: Amano Artisan Chocolate, AmanoChocolate.com Askinosie Chocolate, Askinosie.com DeVries Chocolate, DeVriesChocolate.com Patric Chocolate, Patric-Chocolate.com Taza Chocolate, TazaChocolate.com natural awakenings

February 2014

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Toledo/Monroe edition

ike many newly minted sports, “Spin” has at its center a nearmythical figure: its creator, Jonathan Goldstein—better known as Johnny G—by most accounts a unique eccentric with an unheralded passion for cycling. In 1987, while training for the renowned The Race Across America bike event, a mega-marathon 3,100mile race from Los Angeles to New York, Goldstein was struck by a car and nearly killed. It produced an epiphany: Building an indoor bike simulating the outdoor experience would create a novel workout that would incorporate cardio training and emphasize a mindbody connection. With the formation of Mad Dogg Athletics in 1994, the Spinning craze began rolling. Rolling Stone magazine named it the newest hot exercise and by 1996 there were 1,000-plus Spinning centers in 30 countries.

True to Form

Conceived as a form of cardio biofeedback, the activity keyed on training the heart muscle aerobically using a

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heart monitor. The original goal was to provide an “aerobic base” by working at 65 to 80 percent of one’s maximum heart rate, making the heart a more effective pump and increasing oxygen levels throughout the body. The Spin program follows the principle that participants will train aerobically for six to 12 weeks prior to a “Race Day”—a special ride performed at a steady anaerobic threshold generally at 85 to 95 percent of maximum heart rate. Anaerobic threshold, or AT, is the point at which the body accumulates lactic acid in the muscles faster that it can be removed. “Aerobic base building creates a strong foundation for increasing one’s lactate threshold,” explains Lorey Pro, a master Spin instructor and assistant director of fitness and wellness at Louisiana State University. “Riders can increase their tolerance for anaerobic exercise.” “The metabolism’s foundation is strengthened by aerobic base building. Without it, the body will fall apart if the athlete moves right into anaerobic threshold training,” explains Shannon

Derby, a master Spin instructor and certified group fitness and personal trainer at Mountain’s Edge Fitness Center, in Boulder, Colorado. In contrast to indoor cycling, Spin requires that exertion rates be correlated to levels based on maximum heart rates, and revolutions per minute (RPMs) or pedal strokes be kept at pre-specified levels. According to Pro, Spin should combine mind and body training by using a variety of heart rate zones to improve health, fitness and performance. Instructors take participants through a series of rides known as Energy Zones, each serving a specific purpose like endurance, strength or recovery. Terri Arends, a master Spin instructor and group fitness director at the Jewish Community Center of Dallas, Texas, attests that without such rides, the aerobic foundation crumbles. She likes to put riders through “kicking Spin rides and moments of Zen that allow riders to let go and find their inner athlete.”

Lost in Translation

In today’s typical Spin class, no one wears a heart monitor. While some gyms and boutique facilities offer endurance or strength rides, most conduct only interval rides featuring top 40 music selections and a loose interpretation of the prescribed movements, positions and cadence rates. “Interval rides tend to get picked most,” observes Derby. “There are many different kinds and they are fairly easy to teach and well liked, even though that isn’t what the official Spin-

ning program recommends.” Del Lugo, a Spin instructor and fitness professional in Suffern, New York, who works at the nearby Torne Valley Sports Complex and Lifeplex Health Club, says he rarely sees classic Spin done anymore. In Lugo’s world, Spin should be simply a “fun, safe experience with the instructor endeavoring to instill enthusiasm and encouragement.”

Moving Forward

One key indicator of whether a fitness activity is a trend and not a fad is the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) annual Fitness Trends survey. In 2012, Spin made ACSM’s top 20 list of fitness trends, citing it as “one of the most popular group exercise programs in the commercial sector.” Yet it fell off of ACSM’s list last year. Reviving the original training program may prove helpful in preventing potential Spin burnout. Workouts were originally designed to culminate each week in a meditative, low-impact recovery ride to allow for rest and recovery, which is pivotal to any successful fitness program. The key to Spin’s continuity may be in moving cycling back to its origins—re-educating participants about how best to use Spinning to maximize desired results for body, mind and spirit. Janet Osen is a freelance writer in Rockland County, NY. She is a certified Spin instructor currently working toward her 200-hour yoga teacher certification.

Latest Spins on Original Spin Hydrorider: Lightweight aluminum, rust-proof bike affords aqua cycling in the pool. RealRyder: Bike innovation tilts and moves with participants’ body weight to more accurately simulate outdoor cycling. High Tech: Onboard computers track resistance levels, cadence and heart rates designed for precision rides. Bands Classes: Resistance bands attach to a sliding track on the ceiling to tone abs, arms and chest. Fusion: Classes combine Spin with other workouts like yoga.

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Creating an inspired and healthy home environment soothes the soul and recharges our proverbial batteries. Making healthful choices in the products we use and consume helps ensure we retain a healthy body and vibrant living in an era when we are inundated with disease-producing toxins in our homes, food, air and water. Applying simple solutions to slow down helps us maintain a calm mind amidst the frenetic pace of daily life. Periodically unplugging from the instant demands of technology is a good first step. Tuning into our life purpose and sharing it with others allows us to shine. We naturally radiate our inner light in ever-expanding ways.

Mindful Strategies

A study published by the International Academy for Design and Health shows that because our home influences us on many levels, the setting is continually either supporting or depleting its occupants. Consciously creating and sustaining a nurturing environment fortifies the roots from which family members evolve and grow. Experience shows us how improving our immediate surroundings, ranging from our wardrobe to household furnishings, helps to manifest positive internal transformations. The activity likewise reflects our inner landscape, allowing us to take a step back and observe how we are changing and hope to change.

That’s why we periodically feel impelled to clear unsettling clutter from our private spaces. It’s an irritant that disrupts order and our sense of beauty; even when it’s stashed in drawers and closets, we still know it’s there. It competes for attention and distracts our focus. A recently relocated design client felt that her new house was beautiful, but didn’t feel like a home. The woman explained that when she was there, she was short-tempered with her kids, a sharp contrast to her usual demeanor. She yearned to love her home, enjoy her kids and live vibrantly. A key part of the solution was tackling the home’s mudroom entrance that was cluttered with the kids’ detritus, a condition that irritated her the minute she walked through the door. Many of the home products we buy contain disquieting, hidden elements. Understanding which ingredients are hazardous is imperative to maintaining a safe home environment. Key decisions range from the choice of carpets, couches and bedding to cleaning products, laundry solutions and air fresheners. Knowing the products we use are healthful enhances peace of mind. As one homeowner said, “I am so relieved to have a better understanding of what products I shouldn’t bring home. I was so scared before that I just ignored the idea that chemicals could be harmful.” Being informed and alert to the composition of the items we bring into our home—including food—is vital. More than 80,000 chemicals make up the ingredients in commonly available products that end up in the typical American home, and a large portion of them are toxic. Nearly 20 percent of

the chemicals are not divulged, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The EPA also reports that the average person holds more than 700 toxic chemicals in their body. We inhale myriad chemical byproducts that fill the air both indoors and out, plus ingest numerous toxins in the foods and beverages we consume. Once absorbed, they remain in the body unless flushed out, throwing it out of balance and, as widespread research shows, causing a broad range of diseases. WebMD.com reports that the psychological impacts of feeling stressed, helpless and overwhelmed by the fear of lurking poisons can directly influence our physical health. Making informed choices can alleviate such feelings. It only requires taking a series of small and manageable, progressive steps to create our own style of a healthy and harmonious home life. On a spiritual level, we can rest assured that such caring for our inner temple and larger environment supports a greater good and fosters a deeper connection to life’s Source. We feel more physically, psychologically and spiritually vibrant. Our home becomes a vital wellspring that, cleaned and furnished with holistic awareness, continually refreshes us. Christa O’Leary is founder and CEO of Home in Harmony, Inc., combining expertise in marriage and family therapy, interior design and green living. Her book, Home in Harmony Lifestyle: Designing an Inspired Life, will be released in November. Connect at ChristaOLeary.com/FreeKit.

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February 2014

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LOVE MAGNET

Katherine Woodward Thomas on Drawing True Love Our Way by Debra Melani

fter years of experiencing love going sour, Katherine Woodward Thomas set a goal: She would marry her soul mate within a year. Her quest inspired a surprising awakening that spurred her to look deep inside for the key that would unblock love. Thomas realized the transformation that enabled her success involved clear steps that could help anyone. Today, the licensed psychotherapist and relationship expert has guided thousands toward successful relationships via her national bestseller, Calling in “The One”: 7 Weeks to Attract the Love of Your Life, and subsequent books and seminars.

What catalyzed your Calling in “The One” professional journey? I was 41, a card-carrying member of one of America’s largest-growing groups—the never-marrieds. I had bought into the cultural belief that a woman my age had little chance of finding a great husband. I felt anxious and resigned, trying to come to terms with it, but sad inside. Fortunately, at the time, I was part of a small group supportive of each other’s intentions. So I set the outrageous intention that I would be engaged by my next birthday. I also recognized my longstanding pattern of attracting unavailable men who were engaged, married or alcoholics. A woman in the group said, “Katherine, I will hold that intention with you if you permit me to 30

Toledo/Monroe edition

hold you accountable to be the woman you would need to be in order to fulfill it.” Her wake-up call turned my focus from running out to find love to going within to discover the barriers I had against it. Thus I began what became the Calling in “The One” process.

How does it differ from other approaches to finding love? Many approaches focus on the external reasons love is elusive, such as all the good men are taken, men don’t like powerful women or just not having met the right person. This approach focuses more on the internal reasons—going within to discover and release one’s own conscious and unconscious barriers. For most of us, a gap exists between how much we think we want love and how much we are actually open and ready to receive it. Until we bridge that gap, we will covertly keep love at bay, and won’t even realize we are doing it.

What are the most common hidden barriers to love? One hidden barrier is resentment. We only resent people to the extent that we’ve given our power away to them. Uncover your role in what happened. Even if it was 97 percent their fault and 3 percent yours, zero in on that 3 percent, because you’ll only be able to trust yourself to love again once you’ve taken that responsibility. If you still feel resentful, you have not yet evolved beyond the person you were before.

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Another centers on old agreements—the spoken and unspoken, agreements we make, usually in an emotional time—such as “I’m never going to let myself get hurt again” or “I’ll never love anyone the way I love you.” Such agreements live in our lives as intentions. They may no longer be conscious, yet still set our course. Another has to do with toxic relational dynamics. To find the best partnership, you need to be your best self. Maintaining a toxic dynamic drains personal power, making it hard to move forward in life. It’s vital to evolve out of this debilitating dynamic so you are in the center of your power everywhere in life. The fourth area, and probably the most important, revolves around the core beliefs you hold about both yourself and others. You might have a reasonably clear sense of yourself around money, career and friendship, but your core love identity might cause you to believe yourself unworthy of a quality partner. Identifying and challenging these beliefs is critical in learning how to break free from them, helping to raise your value in your own eyes and thus in others.

You believe the best way to find a needle in a haystack is to become magnetic and allow that needle to find you. How does one become magnetic to love? Being centered in the truth of your own value and the real possibilities you hold for true love is wildly attractive. Love yearns to embrace us, but can’t come to us if it can’t come through us. When we shift into this place of possibility, we can become profoundly magnetic to love. Learn more at CallingInTheOne.net, ConsciousUncoupling.com or KatherineWoodwardThomas.com. Explore the qualities possible in an enlightened mate at NaturalAwakenings Singles.com. Freelance journalist Debra Melani is from Lyons, CO. Connect at DebraMelani.com.

Teaching the Yoga Teacher to Teach Vets by Ariana Rawls Fine

he realities of a veteran’s transition upon returning from one or more tours of duty can create a surreal space where adjusting back to civilian life is challenging. This is further compounded by the increasing numbers of veterans with post-traumatic stress (PTS). For those that reach out for help to cope, alternative therapies that offer self-regulation and grounding skills provide an invaluable benefit to veterans to use in conjunction with evidence-based talk therapies. Yoga can offer these skills while also speaking to their need for physical challenges and healing. A new challenge arises for yoga teachers looking to work with veterans. Daniel J. Libby, Ph.D., LMT, RYT-200, a licensed clinical psychologist whose postdoctoral fellowship brought him to the West Haven campus of the VA Connecticut Healthcare System, was trained to use evidence-based treatment for PTS. As Libby delved personally into yoga and teacher training, he saw a void where

teachers were instructing in classes in a way that did not work well for veterans. Libby founded the Connecticutbased Veterans Yoga Project and launched its Mindful Yoga Therapy for Recovery from Trauma intensive program to prepare yoga teachers to better understand and work with the unique, varying needs and comfort levels of veterans. “Specific practices, guiding principles and resources found to be helpful for veterans coping with trauma, including a detailed treatment manual with an empirically-informed, clinically-tested 12-week protocol are key parts of the teacher training that differ from ‘regular’ yoga training,” explains Libby. The Veterans Yoga Project and similar programs such as Massachusetts’ Yoga Warriors International and Newington’s Mindful Yoga Therapy Training coach yoga teachers to adapt within the class, whether sharing different reasons for certain practices to match common veteran complaints or physically chang-

ing class layouts or poses. Libby speaks of coaching teachers on regulation skills to find out which practices work for veterans to enable them to build a highly individualized skill toolbox that addresses their particular difficulties and enables them to learn to find a little space between stimulus and response to respond more appropriately in situations. Teachers can offer breathing and mindful movement practices as coping tools for their students to utilize when they are in situations where their anxiety, anger or mood changes are heightened or regular meditation to focus more clearly and lessen flashback intensity. Teaching guided resting techniques can aid them in sleeping more soundly and restfully and combating the havoc wreaked by frequent nightmares. Encouraging gratitude can help the attending veterans focus more on the positives in their lives and turn the tide away from depressing, demoralizing thought patterns. Physical changes to classes include ensuring that a door is in a line of sight for all attendees, placing mats against the wall in a single formation and not touching vets unexpectedly. In his years working with yoga teachers, Libby found that 10 percent of the nearly 250 teachers he has coached through the project are veterans or on active duty, while 15 percent are immediate family members of veterans. “To be able to create a job opportunity for a vet to teach other vets is the most rewarding. Since yoga is an unregulated profession, healthcare facilities have a hard time hiring qualified yoga teachers. We provide education, training and job opportunities with supervision and consultation,” says Libby. With many returning veterans going back to school to advance their careers, the next step for these teaching programs is to work more with universities to offer veterans teaching veterans yoga opportunities, as well as a coping mechanism for veteran students to have a more regular experience with other students. Ariana Rawls Fine is an assistant editor for Natural Awakenings in Fairfield County, CT. Connect at Ariana@ arianarawls.com.

natural awakenings

February 2014

naturalpet

The better approach is to do further testing and evaluation at the first sign of a murmur, including chest Xrays, an electrocardiogram (EKG) and a cardiac ultrasound to classify the stage of the disease and determine if conventional medications can help. Follow-up visits every six months allow the doctor to identify the point at which heart disease has progressed toward impending heart failure. In general, pets with either a diseased or failing heart can benefit from supplements. Individual regimens vary, based on the nature of the patient’s case.

Omega-3

Cardiac Care for Pets How to Keep Little Hearts Humming by Dr. Shawn Messonnier

ymptoms that suggest a dog or cat’s heart is not pumping effectively include coughing and fatigue from light exercise. Before the signs are evident, it is far better to check for heart disease during regular twice-yearly visits to the veterinarian. Using a stethoscope, a skilled doctor can pick up telltale heart murmurs during the examination. A fairly common problem with cats, heart disease tends to occur as cardiomyopathy, an issue with the heart muscle. In most dogs, where cardiomyopathy is rare,

Toledo/Monroe edition

it usually involves damaged heart valves, resulting in “leaks” that allow blood to flow in both directions. Upon an initial diagnosis of heart disease, one of two mistakes in treatment routinely occur: Either a doctor prescribes strong cardiac medications to “prevent” heart failure from happening (even though no medication has been shown to prevent heart failure), or he takes a wait-and-see approach, only intervening when the disease progresses to irreversible heart failure.

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Fish oil contains beneficial docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) unsaturated omega-3 fatty acids. The principle metabolites derived from the metabolism of EPA and DHA tend to be anti-inflammatory. Contrariwise, omega-6 fatty acids, which are found in warm-weather vegetable oils, produce pro-inflammatory mediators. Because omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids compete with each other to be converted to active metabolites (pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory) in the body, decreasing the intake of omega-6 fatty acids and/or increasing dietary omega-3 fatty acid levels, available through fish oil, is generally considered beneficial. The differing numbers identifying omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids simply refer to where the carbon-carbon double bonds are positioned in the molecules. Supplementing with fish oil may also reduce the occurrence of atherosclerosis, thrombosis, coronary heart

disease, arrhythmias, heart failure and sudden cardiac death by decreasing inflammation throughout the body, including in the heart.

Coenzyme Q-10

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), also known as ubiquinol or ubiquinone, is a naturally occurring antioxidant synthesized in most tissues in the body. The highest concentrations are in the heart, kidneys, liver and pancreas. In the diet, CoQ10 is found in foods such as organ meats, poultry, fish,

meat, nuts, soybean oil, fruits, vegetables, eggs and dairy products. The Professional’s Handbook of Complementary & Alternative Medicines explains that CoQ10 is used in electron transport in mitochondria—small organelles inside cells that convert carbohydrates and fats into energy. It reports that studies in people with hypertension showed a reduction in systolic blood pressure through CoQ10 supplementation. Benefits of such therapy studied in people with a heart that has failed in its pumping ability showed increased improved heart function and proper dilation of the blood vessels for improved circulation. It is proving to be one of the best nutrients to help an ailing heart.

Hawthorn

The herb hawthorn is highly regarded for its suitability in the treatment of heart

disease due to its flavonoid and other antioxidant content. It provides several beneficial effects for the heart—helping to maintain a normal heart rhythm with decreased risk of arrhythmias; bolstering the force of heart muscle contraction; increasing coronary blood flow; and decreasing the organ’s energy demands. It acts like angiotensin-1-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors such as the medicine Enalapril, used to help regulate blood pressure and reduce the workload of a failing heart. While other therapies can be used to help pet heart patients, these three are a sound starting point. In some cases, they may be suitable instead of medications that can cause side effects to the kidney and liver, or at least allow for smaller doses. Natural remedies provide a gentler alternative. Shawn Messonnier, a doctor of veterinary medicine practicing in Plano, TX, is the award-winning author of The Natural Health Bible for Dogs & Cats and Unexpected Miracles: Hope and Holistic Healing for Pets. For more information, visit PetCareNaturally.com.

natural awakenings

February 2014

calendarofevents Visit our website to enter calendar items – NaturalAwakeningsToledo.com. You will receive a confirmation email when your event has been approved and posted online, usually within 24 hours. Events submitted by the 10th and meet our criteria will be added to the print magazine as space permits.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 1 Be Extreme in 2014! – 8-12pm. Renee's Survivor Shop, has partnered with All4One Assistance program to help raise funds to give women recovering from breast cancer surgery the products and services they need for a healthy recovery free of charge to them. This Workout Preview Day will have 10 classes such as PiYo, Extreme cycling, and Yoga fusion. You can try out all 10 for a $10 donation! Get in a GREAT workout while helping out others! If you have wanted to try a new and results proven workout, come check us out! Bring a friend and we’ll see you there! Extreme Results by Vince. 5201 Monroe St., Toledo, OH. More information call 419309-9777. ExtremeResults419.com. Smoking Cessation – 11-12:30pm. – One session smoking cessation includes a comfortable, small group setting, myth busting seminar, quitting tools, acupuncture by a certified professional, visualization and a reinforcement CD. We have all the tools in one place! $150 per person. New Beginnings Healing Center, 202 N McCord, Toledo OH. Call to reserve a spot. 419-861-7786. For more info, go to the events page NBHCToledo.com. Weight Loss Seminar – 1-2:30pm. Includes menu, meal planning, recipes, wellness tracking, acupuncture, visualization in a small group setting and a reinforcement CD. $75/wk. This is a 3-part seminar with the final session March 1st. New Beginnings Healing Center, 202 N McCord, Toledo OH. Call to reserve a spot. 419-861-7786. For more info, go to the events page NBHCToledo.com.

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 4 Community Health and Wellness Guide Meeting – 11:30am-1pm. This is a group of holistic, energetic and alternative professionals who have started a monthly gathering of like-minded individuals in the NW Ohio area. The goal is to invite every single Health & Wellness/Holistic Practitioner to be a part of this group. Grape Leaf Diner, 909 S McCord Rd, Holland OH. Call Cathy to RSVP: 419-509-3320. CommunityHealthAndWellnessGuide.com. DYS Type 1 Diabetes Support Group – 6-7pm. A support group for families living with Type 1, both newly diagnosed and experienced; all family members welcome to attend. Free. St Luke’s Diabetes Care Ctr, 5871 Monclova Rd, Maumee OH. Contact Mary at Mary@dys4kids.org or 419-887-8741. Or call the DYS office at 419-887-8739. DYS4kids.org. Hooked on Crochet – 6pm. Do you want to learn to crochet or need help improving your technique or just learn a skill to help you relax? If so, join us today and on Feb. 18. In a fun, small group environment we will learn chain and basic crochet stitches, how to read crochet patterns and finish a square of an afghan to donate to the Warm Up America! charity (warmupamerica.org). All supplies will be provided. Register bit.ly/hookedcrochet. Dorsch Memorial Branch Library. 18 E. First St., Monroe,MI. 734241-7878. MyMCLS.com.

Toledo/Monroe edition

Look Good Feel Better – 6-8pm. Look Good… Feel Better is a free, non-medical, salon and product-neutral program that teaches techniques to people undergoing cancer treatment to help them combat the appearance-related side effects of cancer treatment. Free. Bedford Township Library, 8575 Jackman Rd, Temperance, MI. Register 800227-2345. For questions contact Patricia Spencer; 734-847-6747.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 5 Homemade Whole Grain Breads – 6:30-8:30pm. Learn a simple technique to baking delicious breads & pastries. Go home with dough ready to bake. $20. Leader: Elissa Teal. 577 Foundation, 577 E Front, Perrysburg OH. Register: 577Foundation. org/TakeAClass. 419-874-4174. Lecture on Nutritional and Complementary Medicine – 7-9pm. Topic will be Natural Therapies for Peripheral Neuropathy, with emphasis on reversing the cause, heavy metals, drugs and detoxification. Lecture with slides, interrupted by questions, heckling and controversy. Free. Jay Nielsen MD and Restorative Concepts. Nova Faith Church, 5105 Glendale Ave, Ste G, in Kroger Plaza just off Reynolds Rd.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 6 Boomers Resource Network Meeting – Starts at 11:30am. Linking a network of community resources to successfully and effectively navigate through the transitions of life. Free. Uncle John’s Pancake House, 3131 Secor Rd, Toledo OH. 419-536-9442. Partner Yoga – 6:45-7:45pm. One hour of yoga poses executed with a partner. Prepare to have fun! Working in tandem can be funny and challenging. $30 per couple. Class limits 6 pairs. OCS, 4024 N. Holland-Sylvania, Ste 7, Sylvania,OH. Register by 2/1/2014. 419-450-4940.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 7 Couples Massage – 7-9pm. Learn skills to give an amazing massage and score major points with that special someone. Grab a partner and join us for a fun-filled, information-packed workshop. Let us show you how to deepen your connection through the wonderful power of touch. This is a hands-on class where we emphasize massage techniques, learning to massage comfortably (yes, it is possible!), and communication skills that you will be able to put to use right away. Make it a date! $65 per couple. Body & Sole, Medical Annex, Alley entrance off 214 Louisiana Ave., Perrysburg,OH. Must be over 18. Space is limited. RSVP by 2/5/14. 419-873-7653.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 8 Heart & Soul: Caring for Our Community – 6:30-10pm. 10th Annual event to raise awareness for mental illness and help erase the stigma associated with it. Cost includes dinner, entertainment, free parking; drinks are extra. Silent and live auctions. $40, $50/door price. Fifth Third Field, The Bird

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Cage-2nd floor, corner of Washington and Huron St, Toledo OH. Contact Kimberly Bair for tickets at kimberlybairevents@gmail.com 419-806-2681 or Denise Benton at dmmbenton@aol.com 419-2906097. HeartAndSoulToledo.com. Labyrinth Class Part 1 – 10am-3pm. With Julie Dunham and Betsy Jack. Explore the labyrinth as a peaceful yet powerful tool for personal and spiritual growth. Learn the history and purpose of the labyrinth. Create your own finger labyrinth. $35. New Beginnings Healing Center, 202 N McCord, Toledo OH. Space is limited. Call to reserve a spot. 419-861-7786. NBHCToledo.com.

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 9 Herbal Basics series with Jonnie Wagner 1-2:30pm. Spring herbal tonics, teas and smoothies. Preparation and planning for spring herbs to be used for detoxing and health. Violets and Dandelions are a few of the first herbs from Nature's bounty. Learn how to identify, store, and use these two common wildcrafted herbs in everyday life. $15. New Beginnings Healing Center, 202 N McCord, Toledo OH. Call to reserve a spot. 419861-7786. NBHCToledo.com.

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 10 Guided Imagery – 6:45pm. Relaxation scripts, soft lighting and gentle music for the ultimate relaxation experience. $10. Class limit 12. OCS, 4024 N. Holland-Sylvania, Ste 7, Sylvania,OH. Register by 2/6/2014. 419-450-4940.

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 11 “An Introduction to Essential Oils” - 6:307:30pm. Come listen to Terri Savory, IPC with dōTERRA International and learn how essential oils can be used as Nature’s Medicine for you and your family. dōTERRA offers the safest and purest essential oils available today. Free. Rossford Public Library, 720 Dixie Hwy., Rossford,OH. RSVP to receive a FREE gift! 419-450-9248 or doterraoilsforlife@gmail.com. Public Open Game Night – 7-10pm. Hosted by the North Coast Gamers-Toledo chapter. Card and board games for the whole family. Sit in for just a short game or play the night away. Free. CheckMate Games & Hobbies, 6725 W Central Ave (St James Plaza), Toledo OH. RSVP Chris Sutton at meetup. com/NCG-Toledo-Chapter/. Find out more about CheckMate games at CheckMateGames.net.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 13 Breakfast Breads and Pastries – 6:30-8:30pm. Learn a simple technique to baking delicious breads & pastries. Go home with dough ready to bake. $20. Leader: Elissa Teal. 577 Foundation, 577 E Front, Perrysburg OH. Register: 577Foundation. org/TakeAClass. 419-874-4174. Soup for the Soul Book Club Meeting – 3pm. This inspirational book club meets the 2nd Thursday of each month. Book discussed will be ‘Wonderland Creek’ by Lynn Austin. Free. Frenchtown-Dixie Branch Library, 2881 Nadeau Rd., Monroe, MI. 734-289-1035. MyMCLS.com.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 15 Beginner Basket Weaving-Bread Basket – 1-3:30pm. Basketry is relaxing and rewarding. Take home a completed basket. Bring: 3-5 gal. bucket, ruler, pencil, sturdy scissors/pruners, small

screwdriver(not stubby), spray bottle & 12 clothespins. $25. Leader: Brenda Allison-Walton. 577 Foundation, 577 E Front, Perrysburg OH. Register by 02/03/2014. 577Foundation.org/TakeAClass. 419-874-4174. Connecting with the Divine Feminine Energy: How to Reclaim the Goddess Within - 10-3pm. Practical, fun everyday or special activities to connect you to the Goddess who lives within you. Includes break for lunch. Facilitated by Rolita Noble, graduate of Innervisions Institute for Spiritual Life Development and the Leadership Journey of the Consulting Education Center of New York. Rolita has studied Women Spirituality for over 30 years and is a Spiritual Life Coach and Wisdom Keeper. $150. OCS, 4024 N. Holland-Sylvania, Ste 7, Sylvania,OH. Register by 2/12/2014. 419-450-4940. dōTERRA Open House and Introductory class – 10am-noon. Come out and learn how essential oils are being used in homes all over NW Ohio and SE Michigan for improved health and wellness and experience essential oils first hand. Open House will include Zytoscans to see which oils your body needs to restore balance, Trim Shake demonstrations, Roller Bottle Remedies (make and take your own 10 ml roller bottle home), Natural cleaning solutions for your home and MORE! Open House from 10-11am, followed by “Nature’s Medicine Cabinet: An Introduction to Essential Oils” class at 11am. Free and open to the public. Providence Lutheran Church (Family Life Center) 8131 Airport Highway, Holland, OH. RSVP: 419-265-3219 or Gleason.Karla@gmail.com and receive a free gift. Smoking Cessation – 11-12:30pm. – One session smoking cessation includes a comfortable, small group setting, myth busting seminar, quitting tools, acupuncture by a certified professional, visualization and a reinforcement CD. We have all the tools in one place! $150 per person. New Beginnings Healing Center, 202 N McCord, Toledo OH. Call to reserve a spot. 419-861-7786. For more info, go to the events page NBHCToledo.com. Weight Loss Seminar – 1-2:30pm. Includes menu, meal planning, recipes, wellness tracking, acupuncture, visualization in a small group setting and a reinforcement CD. $75/wk. This is a 3-part seminar with the final session March 1st. New Beginnings Healing Center, 202 N McCord, Toledo OH. Call to reserve a spot. 419-861-7786. For more info, go to the events page NBHCToledo.com. Yoga: Exploring Yama and Niyama – 1:303:30pm. Nicole discusses the first 2 limbs of yoga, which are the basis of yoga’s 8 limbs at this standalone workshop. No experience necessary; need not be a member to attend. Free. Presence Yoga, 3450 W Central Ave, Ste 320F, Toledo OH. Contact Nicole at nicole@presenceyogaltd.com or 419-376-6300 for more information. PresenceYogaLtd.com.

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 16 Self-Defense for Women – 1-2:15pm. This class will focus on victim prevention and basic selfdefense moves. Presented by 3rd level Tae Kwon Do black belts Veronica Vincent and Brian Camargo. $25 pp. Class limited to 12 people. OCS, 4024 N. Holland- Sylvania Ste 7, Sylvania,OH. Register by 2/12/2014. 419-450-4940.

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 18 Nourish and Flourish – Eating for Vibrant Health – 6:30-8pm. Speaker Lisa Bowe, CHP,

Health Counselor discusses what to buy, how to prepare nourishing meals, and the importance of your environment in achieving vibrant health. Free. Alternative Physical Therapy, 440 S Reynolds Rd, Ste D, Toledo OH. Contact Lisa: 419-262-1023 or lisabowe00@gmail.com or visitwafptoledo.org. AlternativePhysicalTherapy.com. Info@AlternativePhysicalTherapy.com. “Roller Bottle Remedies” – 7-8pm. Come learn more about dōTERRA’s Essential Oils and make your own natural remedy roller blend for digestive problems, allergies, focus, insomnia, congestion, muscle aches and pains, or even the flu! Bring own oils if already a member with doTERRA. A roller bottle will be provided. All those experiencing dōTERRA for the first time will go home with a 5ml roller blend of their choice for attending workshop. Free and open to the public. Waterville Community Church, 8217 Dutch Road, Waterville, OH. RSVP: 419-866-1209.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 19 Inspirational Book Club Meeting – 2pm. This book club meets the 3rd Wednesday of the month. Book discussed will be ‘A Plain Death’ by Amanda Flower. Free. Dundee Branch Library. 144 E. Main, Dundee, MI. MyMCLScom. Urban Homesteading: Soap 101 and more – 6:308pm. Learn cold process soap making & other homemade skin care goods. Hosted by: 577 Foundation, Lucas County Soil & Water & Olander Park. $10. Leaders: Vicki Gallagher and Erika Buri. $10. 577 Foundation, 577 E Front, Perrysburg OH. Register: 577Foundation.org/TakeAClass. 419-874-4174.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 20 Boomers Resource Network Meeting – Starts at 11:30am. Linking a network of community resources to successfully and effectively navigate through the transitions of life. Free. Uncle John’s Pancake House, 3131 Secor Rd, Toledo OH. 419-536-9442. “Roller Bottle Remedies” – 6:30-7:45pm. Come learn more about dōTERRA’s Essential Oils and make your own natural remedy roller blend for digestive problems, allergies, focus, insomnia, congestion, muscle aches and pains, or even the flu! Bring own oils if already a member with doTERRA. A roller bottle will be provided. All those experiencing dōTERRA for the first time will go home with a 5ml roller blend of their choice for attending workshop. Free and open to the public. Way Public Library, 101 E. Indiana Ave., Perrysburg,OH. RSVP:419-450-9248.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 22 Make a Book (Class) – 9:30-11:30am. Instructors Becky Hill and Gil Gonzalez teach how to make a great quality, personalized book with Blurb.com to create photo albums, family histories, children’s books, etc. Sponsored by RootsMagic Inc. Free. Rutherford B. Hayes Presidential Ctr, Spiegel Grove, Fremont OH. Contact Library Staff at 419332-2081 ext. 231. 10 Annual Seed Swap! – 12pm-3pm. Sponsored by the Toledo Botanical Garden, swap your favorites with other gardeners. Informative workshops, gardening advice, children’s activities and more! Woodward High School, 701 E Central, Toledo OH. Find more info at ToledoGarden.org/Events. th

Basketry is relaxing and rewarding. Take home a completed basket. Bring: 3-5 gal. bucket, ruler, pencil, sturdy scissors/pruners, small screwdriver(not stubby), spray bottle & 12 clothespins. $25. Leader: Brenda Allison-Walton. 577 Foundation, 577 E Front, Perrysburg OH. Register by 02/11/2014. 577Foundation.org/Take a class. 419-874-4174. Herbal Basics series with Jonnie Wagner – 12:302pm. Chickweed, and it's many uses. Chickweed is a great spring tonic herb with many medicinal uses. Preparation and planning for spring planting of herbal gardens. Basics of an herbal gardens versus wildcrafting. $15. New Beginnings Healing Center, 202 N McCord, Toledo OH. Space is limited. Call to reserve a spot. 419-861-7786. NBHCToledo.com.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 26 Stained Glass Mosaics – 6:30-9:30pm. Choose from a variety of designs to make a 5x5 glass panel. Tools & supplies provided. Go to stevesglassclass. com to see picture. $22. Leader: Steve Noblet. 577 Foundation, 577 E Front, Perrysburg OH. Register: 577Foundation.org/TakeAClass. 419-874-4174. Yoga Nidra Integrative Meditation – 6:30-8pm. Learn simple meditation techniques to reverse the effects of stress and create a state of physical and mental wellness. Bring: pillows for body support. $15. Leader: Nancy Sloan. 577 Foundation, 577 E Front, Perrysburg OH. Register: 577Foundation.org/ TakeAClass. 419-874-4174.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 28 The Six Ages of Woman – 7-8:30pm. Come and see this one-woman comedy show! It’s the story of Vicki Ziwicki, and is told in a series of hysterically funny telephone conversations between herself and her jet-setting, careerist friend, Madge. From romance-blinded teen to expectant grandmother, Vicki gives us precious insight into marriage, family life, and feminism. Besides laughing off their stress, the audience leaves the show uplifted, feeling like they too, can accomplish their dreams. $25 advance tickets. Unity of Toledo, 3535 Executive Pkwy, Toledo,OH. 419-537-1001.

savethedate “What’s Your DNA?... Your Divine Nature in Action” Empower your life choices through your divine nature. Discover your true strengths and what holds you back. A day of healing and reflection for women through yoga, massage and equine healing therapy.

Saturday, March 1 • 9-4pm Vail Meadows, 6118 Cedar Point Rd., Oregon,OH $195 per person(includes lunch) Advanced registration required by Feb. 21st. Sponsored by OCS Wellness, Riverbend Equine Therapy, Canine Karma and Ray of Light Healing. Register or for more information contact Cindy Vincent (OCS)

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 23

419-450-4940

Beginner Basket Weaving-Gift Basket – 2-4:30pm.

natural awakenings

February 2014

ongoingevents sunday

tuesday

Hot YogAlign with Joe – 6-7:15pm. Posturalbased movement classes range from beginner to intermediate level done in a humid room. Focusing mainly on deep rib cage core breathing with natural body alignment maintaining the four spinal curves. Lavender-scented cloths offered to help cool down. $15. Graystone Hall, 29101 Hufford Rd, Rm 103, Perrysburg, OH. 419-874-2911. HotYogaWithJoe.com.

Arthritis Foundation Tai Chi – 12:15-1pm. The ancient discipline of Tai Chi combines small steps, joint safe exercise and mental strength to improve mobility, breathing, and relaxation in ways that help you feel in greater control over your daily life. It’s a joint safe way for people of all ages to enjoy life and meet new friends, while taking control of your physical, emotional and mental health. $25/month or included in $45/month fee. 3130 Central Park West Dr, Ste A, Toledo OH. Call Jennifer for more information 419-841-9622. jschrickel@cpwrehab.com

monday Chair Yoga – 11-12pm. Gentle yoga poses done in a chair that anyone of any fitness level can do. There is a component of centering, breathing exercises, stretches and deep relaxation. $10 drop in or 6 classes for $50. 4024 N. Holland-Sylvania Ste 7, Toledo OH. More info 419-450-4940. Fitness After 55 – 9am. Every Monday. The Center provides the setting for seniors to communicate and share with each other. Living alone, eating alone, being alone – these circumstances are not necessary in a community which has a Senior Citizens Program like Bedford’s. Bedford Senior Citizens Center, 1653 Samaria Rd, Temperance, MI. Call for more details on the fitness program. 734-856-3330. Hot YogAlign with Joe – 6-7:15pm. Posturalbased movement classes range from beginner to intermediate level done in a humid room. Focusing mainly on deep rib cage core breathing with natural body alignment maintaining the four spinal curves. Lavender-scented cloths offered to help cool down. $15. Graystone Hall, 29101 Hufford Rd, Rm 103, Perrysburg, OH. 419-874-2911. HotYogaWithJoe.com. Open Knitting – 6-8:45pm. This group meets every Monday evening to knit/crochet. Come when you want, leave when you want. All are welcome. Bedford Branch Library, 8575 Jackman, Temperance, MI. 734-847-6747. Yoga - Connecting Within – 11-12:15pm. With Sandy Earl. Awaken the true connection between body, mind and spirit by incorporating the practice of yoga into a lifestyle. Come and experience the many benefits yoga offers. All levels welcome. $15 drop-in rate. Presence Yoga at Westgate Village Office Building, 3450 W Central Ave, Ste 320 F, Toledo, OH. 419-351-7409. SandyEarl_Rower@hotmail.com. Monthly Memorial Ceremony – 3rd Mon. A gathering for those that have lost a beloved pet and want to remember them and share their memory with other pet lovers. Please bring a picture of your pet. Free. Canine Karma, 6128 Merger Dr, Holland, OH. RSVP: 419-290-8237.

Toledo/Monroe edition

T’ai Chi For Health – 10:30-11:30am. Instructor Marie Criste presents a soft movement class, designed for those wanting to try t’ai chi. Each class is divided into three parts including warm up, senior form and yang form. Beginners should be at the class at 10:15am. Bedford Branch Library, Bedford Community Room, 8575 Jackman Rd, Temperance, MI. 734-847-6747. Monroe.Lib.Mi.Us. Yoga with Weights – 5:30-6:30pm. Bring your own weights for this active practice that builds strong arms, cores and glutes. $10. Canine Karma, 6128 Merger Dr, Holland, OH. To reserve your spot. 419-290-8237. Hot YogAlign with Joe – 6-7:15pm. Postural-based movement classes that range from beginner to intermediate level done in a humid room. Focusing mainly on deep rib cage core breathing with natural body alignment maintaining the four spinal curves. Lavender-scented cloths offered to help cool down. $15. Graystone Hall, 29101 Hufford Rd, Rm 103, Perrysburg, OH. 419-874-2911. HotYogaWithJoe.com. Hot Kettlebells – 7:30-8:30pm. Tone muscles, burn fat, get fit. The best 60-minute, total body workout on the planet. Please bring a yoga mat, bath/face towel and plenty of water. Be ready to sweat and burn fat. $10. Register via website. Graystone Hall, 29101 Hufford Rd, Rm 103, Perrysburg, OH. 419874-2911. HotYogaWithJoe.com.

wednesday Beginner Yoga at OCS – 11:30-12:30pm. and 6:45-7:45pm. A gentle practice for those who are new to yoga and want deep relaxation. $10 drop-in or 6 classes for $50. 4024 N. Holland-Sylvania Ste 7, Toledo OH. More information 419-450-4940. Beginner Yoga – 1-2pm. A gentle practice for those that are new to yoga and want deep relaxation. $10. Canine Karma, 6128 Merger Dr, Holland, OH. Reserve a spot. 419-290-8237.

NaturalAwakeningsToledo.com

Body Better – 12:15-1pm. The Body Better program incorporates low-impact resistance training, functional movements, stretching and relaxation to help you improve your mental and physical strength and health. These total body conditioning classes will help you increase muscle and bone strength, improve balance and stability, enhance walking ability and fall prevention, increase postural awareness and control and increase flexibility and relaxation. The Body Better program can help you get healthy and stay healthy! $45/month unlimited visits or $25/ month once a week. 3130 Central Park West Dr, Ste A, Toledo,OH. Call Jennifer for more information. 419-841-9622. jschrickel@cpwrehab.com. Fitness, ETC. – 10-11am. A blend of yoga, cardio, light hand weights, core work and relaxation designed to increase strength and endurance on a beginner’s level. $10 drop-in or 6 classes for $50. 4024 N. Holland-Sylvania Ste 7, Toledo OH. More information 419-450-4940. Hot YogAlign with Joe – 6-7:15pm. Postural-based movement classes that range from beginner to intermediate level done in a humid room. Focusing mainly on deep rib cage core breathing with natural body alignment maintaining the four spinal curves. Lavender-scented cloths offered to help cool down. $15. Graystone Hall, 29101 Hufford Rd, Rm 103, Perrysburg, OH. 419-874-2911. HotYogaWithJoe.com. Yoga for 8-12 Year-Olds – 7-7:45pm. Children ages 8-12. Connecting mind, bodies and hearts with Diane Ausmus. Through flowing sequences, balancing poses, partner poses, cooperative games, breathing exercises, creating relaxation techniques and much more. Children will gain body awareness, flexibility, strength and an open heart. Summerfield-Petersburg Branch Library, 60 E Center St, Petersburg, MI. 734279-1025. Register: Calendar.Monroe.lib.mi.us. Hot Kettlebells – 7:30-8:30pm. Tone muscles, burn fat, get fit. The best 60-minute, total body workout on the planet. Please bring a yoga mat, bath/face towel and plenty of water. Be ready to sweat and burn fat. $10. Register via website. Graystone Hall, 29101 Hufford Rd, Rm 103, Perrysburg, OH. 419874-2911. HotYogaWithJoe.com. Zumba! – 7:30-8:30pm. (weekly every Wed. thru 11/13/2016) Instructor Toni Quinn. Both Latin and mainstream music is used. No dance experience necessary. $5. Mercy Weight Management, 3930 Sunforest Ct, Ste 250, Toledo OH. 419-480-7547.

thursday Dr. Wayne Dyer Program- The Power of Intentions – 6:30-8pm (1/2/14 to 2/22/14 nine weeks) Bring a friend and save $5 on your weekly cost. Cost $15/week. New Beginnings Healing Center, 202 N. McCord, Toledo OH. NBHCtoledo.com. Space is limited. Call to reserve a spot. 419-861-7786.

Yoga - Connecting Within – 5:30-6:45pm and 6:45-8pm. With Sandy Earl. Awaken the true connection between body, mind and spirit by incorporating the practice of yoga into a lifestyle. Come and experience the many benefits yoga offers. All levels welcome. $15 drop-in rate. Presence Yoga at Westgate Village Office Building, 3450 W Central Ave, Ste 320 F, Toledo, OH. 419-351-7409. SandyEarl_Rower@hotmail.com. Hot YogAlign with Joe – 6-7:15pm. Postural-based movement classes that range from beginner to intermediate level done in a humid room. Focusing mainly on deep rib cage core breathing with natural body alignment maintaining the four spinal curves. Lavender-scented cloths offered to help cool down. $15. Graystone Hall, 29101 Hufford Rd, Rm 103, Perrysburg OH. 419-874-2911. HotYogaWithJoe.com. Healthy Cooking Classes – 6-8pm. Our series of healthy, simple cooking classes, to prepare for a busy week. $15. The Andersons, Sylvania Market Café, 7638 Sylvania Ave, Sylvania, OH. 419-913-7328. Hot Kettlebells – 7:30-8:30pm. Tone muscles, burn fat, get fit. The best 60-minute, total body workout on the planet. Please bring a yoga mat, bath/face towel and plenty of water. Be ready to sweat and burn fat. $10. Register via website. Graystone Hall, 29101 Hufford Rd, Rm 103, Perrysburg, OH. 419874-2911. HotYogaWithJoe.com.

saturday Stress Relief for Caregivers with Nancy Sasse – 10-11am. (2/15/14, 2/22/14, 3/1/14 and 3/8/14) A 4-week class teaching self care techniques and EFT for high stress situations and caregivers. The many aspects of caretaking will be covered. Visit Nancysasse.com to preview a video of the class. $75/4 classes. New Beginnings Healing Center, 202 N McCord, Toledo OH. Space is limited. Call to reserve a spot. 419-861-7786. NBHCtoledo.com. Hot YogAlign with Joe – 6-7:15pm. Postural-based movement classes that range from beginner to intermediate level done in a humid room. Focusing mainly on deep rib cage core breathing with natural body alignment maintaining the four spinal curves. Lavender-scented cloths offered to help cool down. $15. Graystone Hall, 29101 Hufford Rd, Rm 103, Perrysburg, OH. 419-874-2911. Uncork The Artist – 7-10pm. (weekly on Sat. thru 01/01/2015) Painting parties with a twist. Classes for both adults and kids. Register thru website and see the painting to be created each evening. All art supplies provided. $65. Uncork the Artist, 5228 Monroe St, Toledo OH. 419-283-2484. UncorkTheArtist.com.

classifieds Fee for classifieds is $1 per word per month. To place listing, email content to Publisher@NA-Toledo.com. Deadline is the 10th of the month.

OPPORTUNITIES LOVE SCENTED CANDLES – Natural Wax Candle Company looking for distributors. 419-5190588. WhatsTheScents.com.

Keep love in your heart. A life without it is like a sunless garden when the flowers are dead. ~Oscar Wilde

friday Mat Yoga – 11-12pm. Connect with the mind, body and spirit. For the yoga novice and those with limited level of yoga experience. $10 per week or 6 classes for $50. 4024 N. Holland-Sylvania, Ste 7, Toledo OH. More information 419-450-4940. Qigong – 7:15-7:45am and 7:45-8:15am. With Jen Lake. Driven Fitness Studio, 819 Kingsbury St, Ste 102, Maumee, OH. First class free. To register or for more info. DrivenFitnessStudio.com. Qigong – 10:30-11am. The “mother” of Tai Chi, these exercises can be done seated or standing and are safe for all fitness levels. $5 drop-in. 4024 N. Holland-Sylvania Ste 7, Toledo OH. More information 419-450-4940. T’ai Chi – 1pm. Join in the Chinese martial art that combines controlled movements with deep breathing. T’ai chi provides health benefits that include reducing stress, lessening chronic pain, and improving the immune system. In addition, balance and blood pressure often show improvements. Monroe Center for Healthy Aging, 15275 S Dixie Hwy, Monroe, MI. 734-241-0404. Yoga for Kids – 4-5pm. Now signing up children in age groups 4-9 and 10-16. A five-week yoga class to teach children fun ways to manage stress and anxiety. Instructor – Jennifer Dubow, LISW, Clinical Therapist, Certified Child Yoga Instructor. $20/class, $100 total for five weeks, can bill insurance. 3335 Meijer Dr, Ste 450, Toledo OH. Call for class dates and times. 419-699-3659. JenniferDubow@bex.net. Hot YogAlign with Joe – 6-7:15pm. Postural-based movement classes that range from beginner to intermediate level done in a humid room. Focusing mainly on deep rib cage core breathing with natural body alignment maintaining the four spinal curves. Lavender-scented cloths offered to help cool down. $15. Graystone Hall, 29101 Hufford Rd, Rm 103, Perrysburg, OH. 419-874-2911. HotYogaWithJoe.com.

natural awakenings

February 2014

Coming Next Month

communityresourceguide Connecting you to the leaders in natural healthcare and green living in our community. To find out how you can be included in the Community Resource Guide email Publisher@NA-Toledo.com to request our media kit.

DETOX HELP.THEBIOMATCOMPANY.COM Pennie Saks 419-283-7337 PennieSaks@hotmail.com Locations Angela’s Angels, 5774 Main St Sylvania,OH • 419-824-4079 Health Yourself , 1510 S McCord Rd Holland,OH • 419-867-8555

If you haven’t been feeling well and want to help yourself obtain better health, I invite you to research the website and try The Amethyst BioMat for yourself. I am available to demonstrate at your office, health spa or clinic and to answer your questions. See ad page 24.

The Latest

LOCAL FOOD TRENDS Good at Home and On the Go

ESSENTIAL OILS ESSENTIAL CONNECTION, LTD.

Karla Gleason, dōTERRA IPC #224532 Aromatouch Technique Certified Maumee, OH 43537 419-265-3219 Gleason.Karla@gmail.com Essential-Connection.MyOilProducts.com Looking for answers to your health problems? dōTERRA CPTG essential oils are nature’s perfect health solution! Essential oils offer a safe, effective and versatile solution to a tremendous range of health concerns. Contact Karla for a FREE Wellness Consultation today! See ad page 17.

FITNESS POSITIVELY FIT

Maryellen Grogan, CPT, MES 108 E Dudley, Maumee, OH 43537 419-893-5105 Studio Getting Fit is Not “One-Size-FitsAll.” Everyone Is Unique. Exercise needs, nutrition needs and goals are unique for each person. We take individuality into account and build a complete fitness program that’s right for you. To become “Positively Fit,” all elements of fitness and health must be in balance. See ad page 20. • Personal Training • Strength Training & Conditioning • Complete Body Wellness

419-340-3592 38

Toledo/Monroe edition

MARK S. NEUMANN, D.O.

1715 W Dean Rd, Ste B, Temperance, MI 734-847-4700 419-474-4700 corner of Dean & Jackman Rds DrMarkNeumann.com Graduate, 1981 from Palmer Chiropractic College and 1996 from Des Moines School of Osteopathic Medicine. He is also fellowship trained in Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement. Dr. Neumann states, “Our goal is to increase people’s quality and quantity of life.” In addition, the office offers weight loss programs, deep tissue laser therapy, hormone replacement and laser hair removal. See ad page 9.

MASSAGE THERAPY ANGI MCROBBIE L.M.T.

Angi McRobbie LMT 5215 Monroe St, Sylvania, OH 419-680-0474 AngiMaclMT@gmail.com Massage therapist with 7 years experience, specializing in getting the pain out while focusing on connective tissue, achieving better range of motion, and education in body mechanics and ergonomics in everyday living. See ad page 15.

NUTRITION NUTRI-HEALTH

Positively Fit

To advertise or participate in our March edition, call

HEALTH AND WELLNESS

NaturalAwakeningsToledo.com

Jack Grogan, Certified Nutritionist 8336 Monroe Rd, Lambertville, MI 734-856-9199 734-854-1191 fax Feeling out of balance? Wonder how the body responds to stress? Discover the blueprint for the body’s metabolism through hair mineral analysis. Helping clients achieve better health through nutrition and supplementation with over 40 years of experience. See ad page 20.

ORGANIC FOODS HEALTH MATTERS HERBS & MORE 17 E Second St Monroe, MI 48161 734-240-2786 M-F 10-5:30pm Sat 10-2pm Maurine@MonroeHealthMatters.com MonroeHealthMatters.com

Health Matters is a “Healthy Food Store” that focuses on organic and local whole foods that has been locally owned and operated for about 10 years. Offering gluten-free foods, bulk spices, herbs, flours, seeds and nuts, local eggs and dairy products and many other items. Maurine Sharp RN, is the owner with over 40 years experience as a nurse, herbalist and health educator. Store is handicap accessible and Bridge Cards are accepted. Mention Natural Awakenings to receive 10% off order.

PHYSICAL REHAB AND WELLNESS

CPW HEALTH CENTER 3130 Central Park West Dr, Ste A Toledo, OH 419-841-9622

With over 26 years of experience, CPW Health Center has been the premier provider of physical rehabilitation and medical fitness programs. Best known for the 94° heated therapeutic pool. Perfect for those with arthritis and chronic pain. We are now excited to expand our Women’s Health and Wellness Services as we partner with other exemplary providers in order to provide a fuller continuum of care. See ad page 5.

PHYSICAL THERAPY ALTERNATIVE PHYSICAL THERAPY 440 South Reynolds Rd, Ste D, Toledo, OH 419-578-4357 Info@AlternativePhysicalTherapy.com AlternativePhysicalTherapy.com

Traditional physical therapy with a holistic approach. Specializing in one-on-one hands-on care, including aquatics, mobilizations, myofascial release, craniosacral therapy, zero balancing and trigger point releases, utilizing 32 years of experience. Neuro and Pain specialist. See ad page 17.

ROLFING

YOGA

ROLFING® STRUCTURAL INTEGRATION Amy Adamczak Certified Advanced Rolfer™ Board Certified Structural Integrator 3454 Oak Alley Ct Ste 406 Toledo, OH 419-343-1883 RolfingToledo.com

HOT YOGALIGN WITH JOE

Joe Sparks, LMT, RYT 29101 Hufford Rd, Perrysburg, OH 419-874-2911 Joe.Sparks@Toast.net HotYogAlignWithJoe.com YogAlign-affiliate studio. Daily classes and private sessions. Posture and Natural Alignment is the main focus, not performing poses. Space offers a warm, safe and peaceful environment to balance and free the fascia. We work on strength and flexibility. Kettlebell classes also offered. See ad page 15.

In a short series of sessions, release the chronic patterns in your body's structure and movement that contribute to pain and the feeling of “getting old.” Rolfing can be used to improve performance, vitality, balance, posture, back pain, headaches, sciatica, repetitive stress injuries and more. See ad page 19.

WELLNESS CENTER CELEBRATION OF HEALTH ASSOCIATION L Terry Chappell, MD Offices in Toledo and Bluffton, OH 419-358-4627 HealthCelebration.com

Would you like to see a board-certified family medical doctor who is trained in scientific medicine? Who is also an expert in complementary and alternative medicine and prefers a natural approach whenever possible? Who will listen to you, discuss options, and help you decide what is the best approach for you? See ad page 19.

Accept the things to which fate binds you, and love the people with whom fate brings you together, but do so with all your heart. ~Marcus Aurelius

NEW BEGINNINGS HEALING CENTER 202 N McCord Toledo,OH 419-861-7786 NBHCToledo.com

Change your thoughts and change your life. Hypnosis and Life Coaching can help. Small group sessions with acupuncture and visualization for weight loss and smoking cessation. Individual life coaching or hypnosis available for trauma resolution, negative behaviors, achieving goals, study skills. Reiki by appointment. Affordable classes. See events page 22. feel good • live simply • laugh more

WELLNESS RX INC.

Dr Jay Nielsen, MD 27121 Oakmead Dr, Ste C, Perrysburg, OH 419-872-0180 419-874-3512 fax Jay@WellnessRx.org Dr. Nielsen is a board-certified family physician with 38 years experience helping patients avoid orthopedic surgical procedures using Prolotherapy, Platelet Rich Plasma, Bioidentical Hormones and Supplements. Specializes in fatigue, chronic pain, mood disorders and accepts BWC worker injuries. See ad page 22.

Your Healthy Lifestyle Multimedia Resource in Print, Online and Mobile Natural Awakenings Magazine Toledo/Monroe edition 419-340-3592 NaturalAwakeningsToledo.com

natural awakenings

February 2014

...to Toledo, Ohio and Monroe County, Michigan’s newest healthy living magazine! We’re delighted to be here and want to make it easy for you to use and benefit from this new resource and community builder. From the photos selected for our eye-catching covers to the appealing editorial throughout, you’ve discovered the perfect guide to a healthier and more balanced life for you and your family. Each month, Natural Awakenings’ advertisers and authors provide a helping hand along your personal path to wellness and creative self-expression.

Publisher’s letter – Each month, Publisher Vicki Perion shares her thoughts on the featured monthly topic. She’ll offer her entertaining and informative perspective with a nod to stories from her own experiences.

News briefs – Local and national news keeps you up-to-date on cutting-edge perspectives in the fields of natural health, alternative medicine, fitness and related fields. We welcome everyone’s contributions of newsworthy information.

health briefs – Timely news items introduce and hook you up with the latest treatments and tools for specific health and wellness concerns. They include practical tips that you can use today to advance a healthy living lifestyle.

Global briefs – The rain forest is half a world away, yet our health depends upon its health. This department keeps you wired with relevant current events and opportunities for action vital to our planet’s well-being. CommuNity sPotliGht – Articles packed with insights into local businesses and healing arts practitioners that show how they can be of service to you and your loved ones. You’ll be amazed by the level of knowledge and expertise to be found right here in Toledo, Ohio and Monroe County, Michigan!

healthy Kids – Our children’s health is paramount. This section helps parents and caretakers make wise decisions in protecting your children’s health and well-being.

Toledo/Monroe edition

Natural Pet – We love to see our family

disPlay ads – Our advertisers are

pets active and thriving. Surprising alternative therapies, nutrition ideas and resources open new possibilities.

the absolute best! They not only make this magazine possible but are the nicest people in town. Please patronize them and tell them you saw their ads in Natural Awakenings.

fit body – We all know that exercise and physical fitness are essential. The trick is finding the right options for you. We will supply fresh windows of thought that can help get you moving.

healiNG ways – Turn here to learn about therapies and modalities both new and traditional, all focused on enhancing the bodymind-spirit connection for optimal well-being.

distributioN loCatioNs – Please ask for Natural Awakenings at every business you visit, and support our distributors with purchases. Our distributors are just as important as our advertisers and readers. All three are essential elements of the wider community we seek to cultivate for the benefit of all.

iNsPiratioN – Spreading light and encouraging positive perspectives, this column is a beacon that spotlights our interconnections with nature, spirit and community. wise words – Exclusive interviews with renowned national and international leaders, experts and authors offer lively dialogues on topics both current and timeless.

feature artiCles – Interesting, informative, often exclusive articles take advantage of Natural Awakenings’ national scope and local interest in our community. You’ll want to read them all. CaleNdar

of eveNts – There’s so much to do in Toledo. Check out the exciting classes, weekend workshops and special events that pop up each month.

CommuNity resourCe Guide – Here’s a quick reference to the best health and wellness resources in Toledo, Ohio and Monroe County, Michigan. It’s a quick way to find gifts of health and fun for yourself or others.

NaturalAwakeningsToledo.com

Thank you for reading, supporting and contributing to Natural Awakenings. We’re glad you’ve joined us in rousing a real natural awakening of our Toledo, Ohio and Monroe County, Michigan community. Feel good, live simply and laugh more!