Natural Awakenings Magazine January 2012

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20 SMART HEATING OPTIONS Stay Warm and $ave by Brita Belli

22 SOUP’S ON! Healthy Choices Kids Love by Claire O’Neil

24 ALTERNATIVE GOES MAINSTREAM Today’s Complementary Trends Support Natural Health Care by Kathleen Barnes

28 HOW TO BE A GOOD PATIENT by Terri Evans

30 IN THE YEAR 2012 Dispelling the Mystery

by Linda Sechrist

34 PILATES FOR WEIGHT LOSS Strengthen, Lengthen and Tone by Victoria Everman

36 DEEPAK CHOPRA EXPLORES CONSCIOUS BEING by Linda Sechrist

38 NAUSEOUS PETS Causes and Cures

by Dr. Matthew J. Heller

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.

9 globalbriefs

11 healthbriefs

13 ecotip

13 actionalert

17 consciouseating

20 greenliving

22 healthykids

28 healingways

30 inspiration

34 fitbody

36 wisewords

38 naturalpet

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24

11

17

contents

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36


A new year and a fresh 365 days full of promise. We embrace renewed hope

that we can sustain progress, enjoy a new improved life and keep up the good work. At least we are trying, right?

As a cheerleading coach at Byron Center High School, I long enjoyed the privilege of working with kids. After 14 years, I took a year off because I felt that publishing demands required me to focus wholly on my business. Yet, during this past sabbatical year I realized something else—how much I need this kind of time with young people; not only are they loads of fun, they help to keep me grounded and remember what is important in life. The positive energy involved stirs something

inside that is irreplaceable and enables me to deliver my best in other areas of my life.

In our fast-paced society where busy-ness is the norm, it is vital to play up what nurtures our being and helps us grow. Whether that is mentoring youth, taking yoga classes, our spiritual practice, local volunteering or working with animals, I encourage you to be alert to opportunities and make the time. I know that sometimes I ask, “How can I possibly do this, I am so swamped this week,” but I am always glad when I do.

So, here’s a big shout out to all the kids that have helped make my life good, past, present and future. Know that you keep me sane in a crazy world and fuel my soul. Words can express only a fraction of the gratitude due.

This new year of 2012 brings exciting times as well as a lot of big and little unknowns. How do you wish to experience your life? Natural Awakenings is here to help you make informed decisions about your health, wellness and overall outlook. We are particularly delighted to share this special Health and Wellness edition of this community magazine, which is packed with practical information and ideas for taking control of your own well-being.

Ultimately, our day-to-day experiences depend on our individual choices and mindset. This year let Natural Awakenings help you keep your New Year’s resolutions or intentions. May the promising year of 2012 be a prosperous year for all.

Happy New Year,

Amy Hass, Co-Publisher

PublishersKyle & Amy Hass

EditorsS. Alison Chabonais

Scott GillisLinda Sechrist

Design & ProductionInteractive Media Design

Scott Carvey

PrinterStafford Media Solutions

Natural Awakenings484 Sunmeadow Dr. SEGrand Rapids, MI 49508

Phone: 616-656-9232

[email protected]

www.NaturalWestMichigan.com

© 2012 by Natural Awakenings. All rights reserved. Although some parts of this publication may be reproduced and reprinted, we require that prior permission be obtained in writing.

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

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

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newbriefs

Success Mastery

Barb and Bob Huttinga are beginning a new

program at the Healing Center. They are calling this Success Mastery. This will be a mastermind group to help each other develop confidence and belief in themselves to become more successful in life with focus on (FORM) Family, Occupation, Recreation and Money. The idea is to learn to use more of your mind and use it in such a way that you can make your life better in all of these areas. This will create balance and stability, which is extremely important for the ultimate goal of perfect health. “While every one else is out entertaining themselves, we will be learning to make our lives better,” states Bob Huttinga. Put Your Success in Your Own Hands. Meetings are held every other Friday. See the calendar section in Natural Awakenings or call for more details.

The Healing Center 332 S. Lincoln, Lakeview. 989-352-6500. See ad page 26 & 46.

2012 Annual Natural Living Directory

We invite you to be a part of Natural Awakenings 3rd An-

nual Natural Living Directory for West Michigan, coming March 2012. This special annual directory of Natural Awakenings magazine will serve as a handy reference guide for consumers to keep at their fingertips all year long when searching for the products and services they want to live a healthier and more sustainable lifestyle. This A to Z directory will feature a glossary to educate our health conscious readers about the benefits of various natural health modalities, sustainable practices and more. Consumers trust Natural Awakenings information and its featured advertisers because we offer refreshing and educa-tional editorial on natural health and green living. Natural

Awakenings also provides the resources that support Health, Fitness, Sustainable Living, Personal Growth, and Creative Expression. This Directory is a must for businesses that offer healthy products and sustainable services. Don’t miss out on this important issue!

Natural Living Directory prices: $119.00 per category listing includes 5 header lines, a 35-word description and a photo or logo. A second category is 50% off and a third category is FREE.Early Registration Rates: $99 for the first listing. Special pricing ends February 3rd, 2012. ½ page and Full Page Ads are also available.

Call Natural Awakenings at 616-656-9232 for details, examples and to reserve your space in our Natural Living Directory. Deadline to register is February 17th. See ad page 33.

Anusara Yoga Workshop with Moses BrownMoses Brown, back in Grand Rapids January 27th through the 29th. Moses is the most light-hearted fun loving teacher you will ever meet. Put this workshop on your calendar now, it is not to be missed. Moses Brown Certified Anusara Yoga Teacher and Teacher Trainer has been teaching nationally and inter-nationally since 1991. Moses believes that yoga should be a heart opening experience that is both supportive as well as empowering to the student. His teachings create an ap-proach that is physically dynamic, mentally stimulating and therapeutic. Moses brings focus, concentration, and mindful-ness to his classes, weaving them together with playfulness, joy and FUN. Prerequisite: This workshop is not suitable for those students who don’t enjoy laughter during their practice and who can’t sustain long periods of being happy.

Express ions o f Grace Yoga, 5270 Nor th land Dr NE #D in Grand Rapids. 616-361-8580. www.expressionsofgraceyoga.com. See ad page 16.

Circle Pines Center

New Year’s Dec 29 - Jan 2 Cabin Fever January 27-29

Come spend a relaxing winter weekend in the woods.

Serving locally-sourced, organic foods while teaching peace, social justice, environmental stewardship and cooperation as a way of life.

For More Information: Contact: 269.623.5555 OR www.circlepinescenter.org

Winter Weekend Getaways

Moses Brown


Two New Additions toGrand Rapids CenterFor The Healing Arts

Grand Rapids Center for the Healing Arts is pleased to welcome additions to their cooperative healing center.

Gale Henderson, owner of A Massage 4 U, is a Certified Medical Massage Therapist. She brings over fifteen years of experience in massage and is a wonderful asset to their group. Gale can be directly reached at 616-644-5402 or www.am4uonline.com. They also welcome the addition of an exciting new ven-ture called The Infinite Feminine. This will focus on spiritual counseling for women. Services will include, Transpersonal Hypnotherapy, Reiki, clergy services and Transformation Meditation, as well as women’s groups, seminars and retreats. For more information call 616-648-7011 or visit www.theinfinitefeminine.com.

Grand Rapids Center for the Healing Arts, 3160 Breton SE, Suite C, Grand Rapids. See ad page 9 & 33.

Ownership Passed Downto Student

Satya Yoga Center opened in August

2007 by Michele and Tony Adrianse, Satya

Yoga Center is now changing hands in a most extraordinary way. The couple is gifting ownership of the studio to devoted student, Teresa Travers, allowing her to fulfill her dream of sharing the transformative benefits of Yoga with others. Man-aging Satya since April, Ms. Travers has been at Satya’s helm since December 1st. Deeply rooted in service and grateful for this opportu-nity, Teresa desires to “pay it forward” by giving back to the community in which she lives and works through Satya Yoga Center. Under her expert guidance, Michele and Tony’s vi-sion of creating a non-competitive environment in which to practice and teach shall remain intact. The former owners will continue to teach at the studio and many of the class offerings will remain the same.

Free use of props and mats, community classes on a dona-tion basis, affordable pricing and class packages, gifted and engaging instructors who share Satya’s vision, special events and guest teachers will continue to be offered. Additional classes and services will be added to the schedule, including Thai Yoga Massage, Reflexology, Yoga for the Golden Years, New Hot Yoga classes and Yoga for Kids. Satya Yoga Center, located at 3385 Blue Star Highway in Saugatuck, Michigan, is committed to making Yoga accessible and available to everybody, offering classes for practitioners at every level, regardless of where they are on the path, and providing a safe, welcoming space in which to practice.

Contact Teresa Travers at Satya Yoga Center at 269-857-7289 or visit www.satyayogacenter.net

Free Natural Awaken-ings App Now Available

Keeping in touch with the best choices for a green and healthy lifestyle is now easier

than ever, thanks to Natural Awakenings’ new iPhone and iPad app, available as a free down-load at Apple’s iTunes App Store. Individuals on the go can find products, practitioners and services dedicated to healthy living, right at their fingertips. They can also read articles on

the latest practical, natural approaches to nutrition, fitness, creative expression, personal growth and sustainable living, offered by national experts with fresh perspectives. The exclusive app instantly connects to user-friendly gal-leries: “Local Magazines” includes a searchable listing of all Natural Awakenings publishers, with instant links to phone numbers and websites. “National Directory” lists healthy, green businesses, resources and services, complete with directions. “This Month” shows the current national magazine content, always fresh and new. “Healthy Kids” is a collection of how-to articles that focus on raising, nurturing and empowering vibrant children. “Natural Pets” offers an information resource dedi-cated to holistic well-being for companion animals. “Article Archives,” a comprehensive library of thousands of articles, is searchable by key words. “En Español” features an archive of current and historical articles in Spanish.

To download the free app, search “Natural Awakenings” in the iTunes App Store. See ad page 44.

Mary A. DeLange C.C.T. C.M.T.

616-456-5033

[email protected] www.HarmonynHealth.net

Harmony ‘n Health Colon Hydrotherapy

Some Benefits of Colon Hydrotherapy:~ Remove Toxic Waste from ones body

~ Eradicate Constipation ~ Removes Stomach Bloat

~ Increase ones Energy

Therapeutic Massage also available


The Weston A. Price Foundation

The Weston A. Price Foundation is a nonprofit, tax-exempt charity founded in 1999 to disseminate the research of

nutrition pioneer Dr. Weston Price, whose studies of isolated non-industrialized peoples established the parameters of human health and determined the optimum characteristics of human diets. Dr. Price’s research demonstrated that humans achieve perfect physical form and perfect health generation after genera-tion only when they consume nutrient-dense whole foods and the vital fat-soluble activators found exclusively in animal fats. The foundation is dedicated to restoring nutrient-dense foods to the human diet through education, research and activism. It supports a number of movements that contribute to this objective including accurate nutrition instruction, organic and bio-dynamic farming, pasture-feeding of livestock, community-supported farms, honest and informative labeling, prepared parenting and nurturing therapies. Specific goals include establishment of uni-versal access to clean, certified raw milk and a ban on the use of soy formula for infants. The foundation’s quarterly journal, Wise Traditions in Food, Farming, and the Healing Arts is dedicated to exploring the scientific validation of dietary, agricultural and medical tradi-tions throughout the world. It features illuminating and thought-provoking articles on current scientific research; human diets; non-toxic agriculture; and holistic therapies. The journal also serves as a reference for sources of foods that have been consci-entiously grown and processed.

Go to www.westonaprice.org to find a local chapter in your area for contact information.

360 Welcomes New Therapist

360 Massage welcomes Lisa Olmetti to their team. Lisa completed the 600-hour course in medical massage

through Blue Heron Academy of Healing Arts and Science in March 2011. She is Nationally Board certified in medical massage therapy and is also certified in sports massage and kinesio taping,

and Yang Tai Chi Chuan form. Olmetti has over 100 hours of experience in the medical massage clinic at Blue Heron Academy, and has completed an internship with the Calvin College athletic department. She is one of two therapists employed at Metro Health

Sports Medicine Clinic since its opening in August of 2011. She plans on becoming certified in TMJ massage by the end of 2011, and also has experience in pregnancy, lymphatic, relaxation and hot stones massage. Olmetti is a member of the American Medical Massage Association and American Health Source. She has also volunteered at the Metro Health/Grand Rapids Marathon and has been an avid runner for the past seven years. She is available for evening appointments Monday through Thursday from 5-7pm and 9am-1pm on Saturdays.

360 Massage & Holistic Care, 1514 Wealthy Street Southeast, Grand Rapids. 616-242-0034. See ad page 32.

JourneyDance™

Daina Puodziunas (pro-nounced DINAH)~ owner

of Awakened Potentials for Wom-en, received her credentials to teach JourneyDance™ ~ Holistic Dance Fitness for Mind, Body, & Spirit in November. This is a form of conscious dance that tones your body and strengthens your core, as you sweat away toxins and excess weight. Jour-neyDance™ moves you through deep, personal exploration into

Daina Puodziunas


a loving, intimate relationship with body, mind, and source energy. This sensual and exhilarating union of dance, visualiza-tion, and ritual calls you to get funky and divine.

JourneyDance™ encour-ages self-trust, self-approval, and divine knowing within every dancer. It is prac-

ticed barefoot and moving at your own pace while listening to your own body. Dinah combines her Four Gateways To Re~Enchantment™ process with JourneyDance™ to help women free their authentic soul. She is offering this combina-tion in workshops to women’s groups of all kinds. She is also teaching classes every other Wednesday starting January at Expressions of Grace Yoga Studio, 5270 Northland Dr NE in Grand Rapids.

Workshop: Mindfulness Practic-es for the Helping Professions

Elana Rosenbaum, MS, LICSW, will be holding Mindfulness

Practices for the Helping Pro-fessions workshop on Tuesday, January 24th at Wege Conference Center at Cathedral Square, 360 Division Avenue in Grand Rapids. Registration begins at 8:00am and workshop is held from 9:00am-4:00pm. Workshop is sponsored by GVSU Kirkhof College of Nurs-

ing and Catholic Charities West Michigan. Rosenbaum is a leader in the clinical application of mind-fulness meditation to cancer care and adjunct faculty at the renowned Stress Reduction Clinic at the University of Mas-sachusetts Medical School. She is also the author of Here For Now - Living Well with Cancer Through Mindfulness.

In this experiential workshop you will: •Learn the concept of mindfulness •Explore the basic principles of a Mindfulness Based

Stress Reduction Program•Experience mindfulness and compassion meditations•Practice mindful communication

The workshop is $75 for Professionals and $45 for Stu-dents. Cost includes lunch. Please register by Friday, January 20, 2012. Mail-in Registration must be received by Friday, January 20 with lunch selection. Make checks payable to Grand Rapids Center for Mindfulness. Continuing education credits are available for Social Work and Nursing.

C a l l 6 1 6 - 3 6 1 - 3 6 6 0 o r v i s i t w w w .grandrapidscenterformindfulness.com/partners for complete description, schedule and to register. Event Coordinators include William J. Weitzel, LMSW and Carol Hendershot, E-RYT500 • April Hadley, MSW.

Weight Loss Program Using HCG Hormone Therapy

With over 30 years of clinical success, it’s hard to believe that the HCG (human chorionic gonadotrophin) diet

is just now gaining national notoriety. The brain behind the program, Dr. A.T.W. Simeons researched hormones and their connection with obesity in the 1940s. Over many years of researching thousands of patients, many experienced additional benefits beyond just weight loss. The HCG diet can assist with lowering cholesterol and blood sugar; decreasing blood pressure, increasing energy levels, reducing the appearance of cellulite and improving skin elasticity. Reliably lose ½ to 1 pound of body fat per day with this doctor supervised, natural weight loss program. Customized programs are tailored to each individual.

To schedule an appointment, contact Holistic Care Approach 3368 E. Beltline Ct. NE Grand Rapids. 616-361-9221. See ad page 11.

Elana Rosenbaum


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

globalbriefs

Fishy BusinessSomething’s Spawning Gender-Bent FishA French study examining wild gudgeon fish that live di-rectly downstream from a pharmaceutical drug manufac-turing plant found that up to 80 percent of them exhib-ited both male and female traits in their sex organs. Such sex abnormalities indicate endocrine disruption that can foreshadow larger effects on fish populations because of reductions in breeding abilities. Upstream of the plant, only 5 percent of such intersex fish were detected. Excreted pharmaceuticals can enter the environment from sewage treatment plants or the flushing of unwanted or old drugs down the toilet. They also can directly enter waterways via discharge into rivers and streams by drug manufacturing plants. The study is the first to link dis-charge from a drug plant, rather than a sewage plant, with physical and chemical changes in fish. The inquiry was initiated after fishermen along the Dore River, in France, noticed swollen bellies and abnormal innards in the wild gudgeon fish. Study results were published in the journal Environmental International. More research is needed to identify the types and levels of specific drugs in the water at each site.

Source: EnvironmentalHealth-News.com

Resilient CommunitiesVolunteerism Remains Strong in America

More than 60 million Americans volunteered 8 bil-lion hours of their services in 2010, holding steady with the previous year, according to the latest report by the Corpora-

tion for National and Community Service (CNCS), released late last year. Communities are benefiting from their work in mentoring and tutoring youth, fundraising and providing food, transportation and general labor, including disaster relief. “Every day, volunteers of all ages are giving their time and talents to solve problems and make our country stronger,” says Robert Velasco II, acting CEO of CNCS. He observes that civic involvement increases as people become more deeply rooted in their communities through family, work and school ties. The members of Generation X (born 1965 to 1981) are volunteer stars, having contributed 2.3 billion hours in 2010, 110 million more than the year before. Teen volunteer rates were also up from 2002 through 2010, compared to 1989. A Volunteering in America report attributes this to emphasis on service-learning in high schools, the influence of parents that volunteer, social networking and the ease of finding opportu-nities via the Internet.

To find local volunteer opportunities by category, visit Serve.gov or AllForGood.org.


Going Out GreenNew Mortuary Practices Reduce Mercury PollutionResomation, Ltd., in Glasgow, Scot-land, has invented a new alkaline hydrolysis unit as a green alternative to cremation. Founder Sandy Sullivan plans to in-stall the first one in America at the Anderson-McQueen Funeral Home, in St. Petersburg, Florida. Mercury from dental fillings vaporized in crematoria has been blamed for up to 16 percent of British airborne mercury emissions, and many facilities there are fitting costly mercury filtration systems to meet reduced emis-sion targets. The device dissolves the body in heated, pressurized, alkaline water. Mak-ers claim the process produces one-third less greenhouse gas than cremation, uses one-seventh of the energy and allows for complete separation of mercury-laden dental amalgam for safe disposal. Sullivan, a biochemist, says tests have proven the effluent is sterile, con-tains no DNA and poses no environmental risk. He believes it can rival crema-tion for cost. The technology has been legalized in seven states to date. Another green alternative, Promession, is under development by Swed-ish Biologist Susanne Wiigh-Masak. It involves a fully automated machine that removes the body from the coffin and freezes it with liquid nitrogen. Vibrating breaks the corpse into fragments, which are then dried, refined and filtered to remove dental amalgam and other metals. The remains are then automatically poured into a biodegradable container for shallow burial. Wiigh-Masak likens the process to composting, in which organic materials convert to soil within weeks. She says that 60 countries around the world have expressed interest in the technology.

Source: BBC News

Rocky Topping Appalachian Residents Oppose Coal Mining PoliciesEven though coal mining forms the economic backbone of several Ap-palachian states, a recent poll reveals overwhelming local resistance to the technique of removing the entire tops of mountains to secure the coal, and then dumping the toxic remains in valleys and streams. Residents are mad enough to make it an election issue. A survey of 1,315 registered voters, sponsored by Earthjustice, Appalachian Mountain Advocates and the Sierra Club, was conducted by independent research companies in Kentucky, Vir-ginia, Tennessee and West Virginia. It found that only 20 percent of residents support the practice of mountaintop re-moval. More, voters from all parties in these states promise to penalize elected officials that move to weaken clean water and environmental regulations related to such mining. The poll reveals intense and broad-based support in the heart of Appalachia for fully enforcing and even increasing clean water protec-tions to combat the negative impacts of mountaintop removal mining. Joan Mulhern, senior legislative counsel for Earthjustice, says, “The time for this destructive practice is over. The people in Appalachia are making it clear that they recognize the threats to their health and communities.”

Source: Earthjustice.org, find state action contacts at Tinyurl.com/3jnlum5.

TIP OF THE MONTH... Don’t throw out all those holiday cards you received this year instead cut them up around the pictures and nice phrases and use them as gift tags for next year’s holiday gifts.


Science Confirms Benefits of Herbal BrewsEnjoy your next cup of herbal tea while

toasting to better health. U.S. Depart-ment of Agriculture-funded researchers have confirmed the science-based health benefits of three of Americans’ favorite herbal teas. Chamomile tea has long been said to soothe a troubled belly and restless mind. After reviewing scientific litera-ture on the herb’s beneficial bioactivity, the study team published an article in Agricultural Research describing test-tube evidence that the beverage also offers moderate antimicrobial and significant anti-platelet-clumping action. They found that peppermint tea also shows signifi-cant antimicrobial, plus antiviral, anti-oxidant and antitumor actions, and even some antiallergenic potential. After reviewing human clinical trials, the researchers further reported that drinking hibiscus tea lowered blood pressure in a group of pre-hypertensive and mildly hypertensive adults.

healthbriefs

EAT BREAKFAST TO SHED POUNDSYes, breakfast is the most important meal of the

day, says Heather Leidy, an assistant professor in the University of Missouri’s department of nu-trition and exercise physiology. “Everyone knows that eating breakfast is important, but many people still don’t make it a priority.” Leidy’s research shows that a healthy break-fast, especially one high in protein, increases satiety and reduces hunger throughout the day, making it a valuable strategy to control appetite and regulate food intake. Using functional mag-netic resonance imaging, she discovered why. Eating a protein-rich breakfast works to reduce the brain signals controlling food motivation and reward-driven eating behavior.

Make 2011 the last year you will have " lose weight" on your list of resolutions. Change your life with our HCG Weight Loss Program!!!

• Reset your body to lose only fat and inches • Rapid, safe weight loss

• No exercise needed • Scientifically backed and time tested

• No dangerous pharmaceuticals or surgery • Safe and effective

Available at Holistic Care Approach, 3368 Beltline Ct, Grand Rapids, 49525

Program Includes the Following • Thorough initial and follow up visit • Physician supervised • Weekly supply of HCG syringes or New Nasal Inhaler form now available Now Available at HCA for the HCG Program • HCG friendly recipes • Flavored liquid Stevia • Teas • Glycerin Soap • HCG friendly supplements

Call 616-361-9221 for a FREE 15 minute consultation with our doctor to learn more, and see if the program is right for you.

$20 o� 3 Week or 6 Week Programs with this ad.


The Power of Good PostureMother’s warnings against slouching were correct. Recent re-

search proves that poor posture not only makes a bad impres-sion, it can make us feel physically weaker. The study, published in the Journal of Experimental Social Psychology, explored the rela-tionship of posture and pain tolerance and found that by simply adopting more dominant poses, individuals can feel more power-ful, in control and better able to tolerate distress. More, those studied using the most dominant posture were able to comfort-ably tolerate more pain than others assigned a more neutral or submissive stance. People tend to curl up into a ball when in pain, but the Uni-versity of Southern California researchers recommend doing the opposite—try sitting or standing up straight, lifting the chin, push-ing out the chest and generally expanding the body shape. They suggest that these small, yet empowering, changes in behavior can decrease sensitivity to pain. Adopting a powerful posture may even affect the body’s hormone levels, boosting testosterone, which is associated with increased pain tolerance, and decreasing cortisol, typically released in response to stress.

Tangerines’ Tangible GiftsTangerines are sweet, affordable and in season, and now there’s another reason

to stock up on this juicy fruit. Researchers from the University of Western On-tario have discovered that a tangerine flavonoid, nobiletin, appears to help prevent obesity and protect against Type 2 diabetes and atherosclerosis, the leading cause of heart attacks and strokes. When the researchers fed mice a “Western” diet high in fats and simple sugars, they became obese, showing all the signs associated with metabolic syndrome:

elevated cholesterol and triglycerides, high blood levels of insulin and glu-cose, and fatty livers. A second group of mice—fed the same

unhealthy diet, but with nobiletin added—experi-enced no symptoms of metabolic syndrome and gained weight normally. Ingesting nobiletin also prevented the buildup of fat in the liver by stimulating genes that help

burn excess body fat, while inhibiting genes responsible for manufacturing it.

THE HEAVY SECRET OF FAKE FATSFood containing synthetic fats—which taste like natural

fats, but with fewer calories—may sound enticing to dieters. However, fat substitutes used in low-calorie potato chips and other processed foods could instead backfire and contribute to weight gain and obesity. Findings by Purdue University scientists published online in the American Psychological Association’s journal, Behavioral Neurosci-ence, challenges marketing claims that foods made with fat substitutes help with weight loss. Apparently, the hitch is

that synthetic fats can interfere with the body’s ability to regulate food intake, lead-ing to inefficient use of calories and weight gain.

Nothing is impossible, the word itself says ‘I’m possible!’

~Audrey Hepburn


Mailbox MakeoverBanish Unwanted CatalogsThe holidays have come and gone and a new year is here, heralded by a mailbox still engorged with resource-wasting, old and new catalog clutter. Altogether, some 20 billion catalogs are mailed annually, to the frustration of Earth-conscious shoppers. According to the nonprofit ForestEth-ics, the average American will spend the equivalent of eight months of their life dealing with junk mail. We all can save valuable time, conserve America’s forests, ease up on overflowing landfills, and reduce fuel and other materials wasted on unwanted catalogs by following these simple tips.

1. Ditch duplicate mailings. If you receive multiples of a catalog you like, call and ask the company to remove the extra listing.

2. Delete your address. The Direct Marketing Association (dmaChoice.org) will add your name to a “delete” list for direct marketers through its Mail Preference Service. It’s free online, or $1 by mail.

3. Sign up with a service. Options available for a modest fee include Catalog Choice.org, StopTheJunkMail.com and 41Pounds.org.

4. Switch to email. Most retailers can email promotion and sale notifications, with links to their websites and digital catalogs.

5. Recycle catalogs after browsing. If the local recycling program doesn’t accept them, search Earth911.org by Zip code to find the nearest facility that does.

ecotip

Faux FoodDemand Labels on Genetically Engineered FoodsThe United States is a rarity among developed countries in that it does not require labeling of genetically engineered (GE) foods. Russia, Japan, China, Australia, New Zealand and 15 nations in the European Union require notice of GE content. A poll by ABC News shows that 93 percent of Americans want the federal government to require manda-tory labeling of these foods. The nonprofit Center for Food Safety (CFS) has filed a petition with the U.S. Food and Drug Administra-tion (FDA) demanding that the agency require the labeling of GE foods, on behalf of the Just Label It campaign (JustLabelIt.org), a coalition of 350 companies, organizations, scientists, doctors and individuals dedicated to food safety and consumer rights. In 1992, the FDA issued a policy statement that GE foods were not “ma-terially” different than traditional foods, and so did not need to be labeled. Agency policy severely constricts dif-ferences only to alterations that can be tasted, smelled or otherwise detected through the five senses. CFS Executive Director Andrew Kimbrell states, “Current FDA policy uses 19th-century rationale for a 21st-century issue, leaving consumers in the dark as to hidden changes to their food. It is long overdue that the FDA acknowledges the myriad reasons genetically engineered foods should be labeled and label these novel foods once and for all.” Critics claim that GE foods are linked to both personal health and environmental risks.

Tell the FDA to label GE foods and more at CenterForFoodSafety.org and TrueFoodNow.org.

actionalert


Over the past year we have

highlighted an amateur

photo contest winner

each month and now it is your turn

to vote.

December 2010

Voting ends

January 12th

Photo: Avery Wedder of Cascade

Photo: Ashley Bunge from Wyoming

Photo: Lee Hardy from Grand Rapids

Photo: Joel Manning of Jenison

January 2011

April 2011

May 2011

August 2011September 2011

Choose The Best of the Best!

Photo: Jacqueline Lee Muma of HastingsPhoto: Julia Knoll of Grand Rapids


Just send an email t o P u b l i s h e r @NaturalWestMichigan.com with the words ‘Photo Contest’ in the subject line and tell us which month you feel should win. The winner will receive a Natural Awakenings Network Card (valued at $108).

It’s Simple...

Photo: Janet Kruzel of Homewood, IL

Photo: Catherine Huizinga of Grand Rapids

February 2011 March 2011

June 2011

July 2011

October 2011

November 2011

Photo taken by Leesa Lee from Clio

Photo: Donald Bradstreet from Hastings

Photo: Kent Measell of Grand Rapids

Photo: James Tanis of Lakeview


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To say that Brendan Brazier, a former professional triathlete from Vancou-ver, Canada, has energy to spare is

an understatement. Brazier has turned his vegan Ironman success into a triptych of bestselling books: Thrive, Thrive Fitness and his new cookbook, Thrive Foods: 200 Plant-Based Recipes for Peak Health. He has created the Vega line of whole food products and become an activist for improving the health of people and the planet through food choices. “I discovered that with the perfect combination of the right foods, it was possible to achieve incredible levels of fitness that went far beyond what I could have achieved on a regular diet,” he explains. “The perfect combination for me is a whole food, Earth-

friendly plant-based diet. But even small changes—like adding these seven clean, quality super foods to a person’s daily diet—can help decrease body fat, dimin-ish visible signs of aging, boost energy without caffeine or sugar, enhance mood and improve sleep quality.”

Brazier’s Seven Super Foods Maca. This root vegetable from South America increases energy by nu-trition, not stimulation, advises Brazier, who recommends the gelatinized form for best results and often adds it to a drink after a workout. Hemp protein. Rich in omega-3 and omega-4 essential fatty acids, hemp protein powder makes a great base for a smoothie. Fresh ginger and ground, dried turmeric. These spices help the blood circulate more efficiently, and thus boost energy. Brazier adds them to drinks or smoothies. Chia. Small, white chia seeds help sustain energy and maintain a feeling of fullness. He enjoys them in a blueberry chia breakfast pudding. Fresh leafy greens. Brazier believes the consumption of chlorophyll-rich, leafy green vegetables, combined with

moderate exercise, is the best way to create a biologically younger body. Chlorella. This freshwater green

algae, taken as a dietary supplement, is best known as a powerful energy enhancer and brain booster. Green tea. Rich in chlorophyll and antioxidants, green tea causes a slow, steady release of energy over the course of several hours. “Each new year brings fresh resolve to launch healthier habits that lead to fit-

ter bodies, better sleep, increased performance and happier lives,” says Brazier. “Diet is one of the things we have the power

to change right now in order to begin to thrive.”

Judith Fertig celebrates healthy cooking at AlfrescoFoodAnd

Lifestyle.blogspot.com.

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POWER FOODS BOOST ENERGY, LOSE WEIGHT

by Judith Fertig

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Brendan Brazier


The beauty of a good diet is that the right foods will not only help us over-come nutritional stress, but also other negative stressors, like pollution and en-vironmental toxins. Plus, we’ll be able to better perform during positive demands like exercise and educational activities. My recommended action plan consists of seven easy steps. Step One. Examine your current diet. What things are you eating that might be reducing your energy or aren’t support-ing your health and fitness goals? Step Two. Prepare for success by researching and listing foods that are conducive to thriving. Step Three. Graze throughout the day. Eating several small meals helps maintain energy levels, eases digestive strain and spreads nutrients to sustain us all day. Step Four. Drink a nutritious smoothie each day—it delivers whole food nutrition that’s easy on the digestive system and pro-vides lasting energy. Here is a go-to favorite.Mango Cashew Smoothie½ cup powdered hemp protein1 cup mango, fresh, frozen or pulp½ cup soaked raw cashews½ tsp vanilla extract1 Tbsp maple syrup (or agave nectar)1½ cups purified water½ cup ice

Purée all ingredients in a blender until smooth. Step Five. Eat a big, green salad every day; these are a staple when eating to thrive. Step Six. Eat a raw energy bar every day; it’s an easy way to pack nutrition into a convenient, easy-to-carry form. Step Seven. Eat a substantial, bal-anced afternoon snack to head off hunger and overeating at evening meals. Consider healthy snacks—such as a handful of almonds, macadamia nuts or walnuts; a serving of organic carrots, celery or zucchini sticks; or an organic apple, pear or orange—instead of pro-cessed convenience foods.

For more information, visit Brendan Brazier.com or join a free online program at ThriveIn30.com.

7 STEPS TO THRIVEby Brendan Brazier

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Joel Manning, C.N.C. is a no-nonsense kind of guy, and Affordable Nutrition – which sells vitamins and nutritional supplements in Jenison - is a no-nonsense kind of place. It’s

not about fancy packaging or a big sales hype, it’s just about the benefits, and what can be accomplished using natural nutrition. “I started this business in 2000, because I wanted to help people who want to take a proactive approach to their health through proper nutrition and supplementation,” Joel explained. He received his accreditation as a Certified Nutritional Consultant in 1999, but his on the job training began over 22 years ago, when he decided to take charge of his own health. “Most of my family had either passed away or was in poor health. Each took a handful of drugs every day and no offense to anyone in the medical community, it didn’t help,” Joel said. “A friend of mine that was working in this field offered me a chance to come work with him and I took it.” Joel said that getting C.N.C. accreditation usually takes about 6 months, but for him it was much easier. “I knew a lot of the material, because I had read so much in trying to get educated in what options were available for helping people,” he said with a smile. Joel never looked back and is currently pursuing his Naturopathic Doctor Certification. He is currently in the final process of writing his dissertation. The full bookshelves in his office attest to his constant learning. He says that education is the key to his philosophy in working with folks who come into his store looking for help. “So many of the people I work with have been taking drugs and know they are not working for them. In some cases, the drugs are actually making their condition worse because of the side effects,” he said. “I’ve been there too, and it really reinforced my conviction that although our medical industry is great at crisis management and preventive care; continuing health needs to come from helping our bodies to repair themselves.” After a heart attack several years ago, Joel weighed his op-tions, and then followed his doctor’s advice. Six months later his health issues had become worse, so he decided to self-treat using the supplements and vitamins that he trusted. At his one year check-up even the doctor was amazed at his recovery. “It is such a reward for me when people come back and tell me they feel whole again, and they did it without chemicals and surgery,” he said. Although many turn to the internet to purchase their supplements, Joel points out that often the supplements are not quite what they purport to be and that probably the most important ingredient of all is absent. “When we work with someone, we try to educate them and the holistic plan we come up with is tailor made for them,” he said. “Deciphering

the good from the bad is the expertise we provide; and that is based on years of training.” Supplements are natural chemical elements, and Joel says that even with these, there are conflict-ing opinions. “It can be very frustrating because someone who doesn’t know what they are doing can really hurt somebody” he explained. “You have to know what questions to ask before recommending a product or a holistic plan. It takes time to get back to good health, just like it took time for their health to decline. It is important to work with someone who has experi-ence in working with vitamins and supplements, which could eventually bring them back to good health; otherwise, it could potentially be a waste of time and money.” Many of the complaints that people come in to the store with are serious, and many times people have searched desper-ately for help, to no avail. Joel has people who come to Afford-able Nutrition from Lakeview, Saugatuck, Whitehall, even as far away as Traverse City, and most come because they have been referred by a friend or family member that he has helped. Many times they have been misdiagnosed, and that can set them back for years. “Yeast is a huge problem. Different statistics suggest that up to 80% of the general population suffers from some type of yeast or fungal issue,” he said. “The symptoms can often be attributed to any number of things, so it is often missed.” One of his clients had suffered with numerous symptoms, including debilitating headaches and weight gain, but in three months after working with Joel she had dropped the weight and begun to put on muscle. “Getting better is a combination of many things, but it so often depends on the amount of yeast build-up in the system,” he said. A member of the N.P.A. (Natural Products Association) Joel stresses that everything in his store is natural, with no manmade ingredients and no genetic modifications. In January, Affordable Nutrition is taking its message on the road in partnership with Dr. Hartman from Hartman Family Chiro, also located in Jenison. “As part of Get Healthy Michigan we’re offering a Passport to Health, which includes free dinners at local restaurants, with some nutritional advice and counseling thrown in for good measure,” he said. “The first dinner is January 10th, but we only have so many to give out.” The free dinner is great, but so too will be the information shared, Joel promises. “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure,” (Benjamin Franklin) he points out with a smile. “Give us a call to set up a time to talk, or just stop by. We can help.” Joel is also a member of the American Association of Nutritional Consultants, The Michigan Chapter of Certified Natural Health Professionals, and the Michigan Chapter of the Better Business Bureau.

Affordable Nutrition is located at 7493 Cottonwood Drive, Jenison MI 49428. For more information visit the website at www.affordable-nutrition.com, email Joel Manning at [email protected] or call 616-667-1346. See ad page 46.

communityspotlight

Affordable Nutr itionby Kim Racette


greenliving

The latest edition of the Consumer Guide to Home

Energy Savings reports that heating costs represent the largest residential energy expense—35 to 50 percent—of annual energy bills. Fortu-nately, homeowners have many fuel- and money-saving options superior to turning up the thermostat on an inefficient gas- or oil-fueled furnace or boiler, using an elec-tric space heater or throwing more logs into the old fireplace. Before buying any major home heating equipment, it makes sense to first fix leaks. Beef up insulation; seal places where heat typically escapes—around windows and doors, dryer vents and cable and phone lines—and make sure heating ducts and pipes are working properly. Good ventilation is also vital in an air-sealed home, both to control moisture and prevent build-up of indoor pollutants. Once the home is sealed against unwanted heat loss and maintains regular circulation of fresh air, take big-ger energy-saving steps. Here are five

SMART HEATING OPTIONSStay Warm and $ave

options to consider, based on local cli-mate, home size and budget. Air-source heat pump: Because above-ground heat pumps transfer heat—from inside to outside or vice versa—rather than create it, like a conventional heating and air-conditioning unit, they can provide up to four times the amount of energy they consume, according to the U.S. Department

of Energy (DOE). They also help dehu-midify indoor air, reducing the need for air conditioning in warm months. The DOE notes that such devices can cut energy use by 30 to 40 percent in homes that use electric heat in mod-erate climates. However, they are not a good option for cold climates, where the amount of heat easily drawn from the outdoors is greatly diminished. Geothermal heat pump: Geother-mal or ground-source heat pumps in-volve loops of pipe buried in four-foot-deep horizontal or 200-foot-deep verti-cal holes in the yard. They exchange a home’s hot and cold air underground, where the temperature remains relative-

ly stable year-round (between 45 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit). Geothermal heat pumps are three times as efficient as a typical furnace; even the excess, known as “super heat,” can be captured to heat household water. Estimated payback on a geothermal unit is two to 10 years.

Solar heat: Solar heat is either active—capturing the sun’s heat by means of solar collectors—or passive—captured via a home feature such as a sunroom with a south-facing wall that vents warm air into the home. For an existing home, an appropriately designed shed or garage can be well suited for a solar collector; otherwise, a shade-free roof space is often the best option. An ac-tive solar-heating system can be air- or water-based: the latter requires instal-lation of a water storage tank, either in an insulated box outside or beside an existing indoor water tank. The DOE advises that the most eco-nomic designs use an active solar heat-ing system to supply 40 to 80 percent of a home’s heating needs. By combining such a system with passive solar design features—such as thermal walls and tile floors—families may need very little supplemental heat other than solar. Wood stoves, pellet stoves and inserts: Traditional fireplaces look cozy, but they can send as much as 300 cubic feet per minute of a home’s precious heated air straight up the chimney. Woodstoves, meanwhile, have come a long way, environmentally speaking. Whether old-fashioned or modern in appearance, a contemporary woodstove can serve as an efficient space heater. Note that materials matter. Steel heats up and cools down quickly; soap-stone continues to radiate heat long after the fire is out; and cast iron falls some-

by Brita Belli

Energy-efficient soapstone fireplace

Renewable energy solar panels

Outdated furnaces and boilers are bad news for

the environment, accounting for about

12 percent of U.S. sulfur dioxide and nitrogen

oxide emissions.

~ Consumer Guide to Home Energy Savings


where in the middle. Pellet stoves burn rabbit-feed-like pellets of sawdust, wood chips, crop waste and other organic ma-terials. The DOE considers pellet stoves the cleanest solid fuel-burning residential heating appliances; so efficient (78 to 85 percent) that the U.S. Environmen-tal Protection Agency exempts them from smoke testing. Pellet stoves can be freestanding, or pellet stove inserts can be fitted to an existing fireplace. With airtight doors, temperature controls and easy loading and cleaning capabilities, fireplace inserts readily turn an energy-wasting fireplace into an efficient home-heating machine. Radiant heat: Radiated heat—dis-tributed through a home’s floors, walls or ceiling panels, as opposed to baseboard panels, steam radiators or forced air systems—is efficient, doesn’t aggravate allergies and can complement a variety of heating systems, including gas- or oil-powered boilers and solar water heaters if it’s a hydronic (liquid) model. With hydronic radiant floors, the most efficient and popular method, heated water flows from the boiler to specialized underlying tubing that is either embedded in con-crete or seated between layers of sub-flooring. One downside: a radiant floor can’t be covered with carpet. But with all that toastiness underfoot, why would anyone want to?

Brita Belli is the editor of E-The Environmental Magazine and author of The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Renew-able Energy for Your Home.

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Wholesale & Retail

“What’s a surefire way to get kids dashing to the dinner table? Simmer

up a batch of hearty soup and then sit back and watch it disappear,” says Ken Haedrich. “Kids love soup,” he main-tains, “because it’s warm and soothing and slurpy.” A former navy Seabee and author of the classic Soup Makes the Meal, Haedrich is a father to four grown children. “Besides being kid-friendly, soup has other advantages,” he contin-ues. “It can be made ahead of time, and you’ll probably end up with leftovers—a bonus for busy families.” Soup is also a great way to get kids interested in vegetables and in cooking. “Starting at around 2 years old, kids want to be in charge of what they eat, just like they want to choose their own clothes,” says Beth Bader, author of The Cleaner Plate Club. So Bader and her daughter Amelie started entertaining fresh ways of looking at food. At the grocery store or farmers’ market, for example, they played “I Spy,” as in “I spy something purple that tastes like....Amelie could pick any vegetable and we’d figure out how to cook it at home—often in soup,” says Bader. Chicken broth-based soups may also boost immunity and help battle the

sniffles, according to researchers at the University of Nebraska Medical Center. Dr. Stephen Rennard and his colleagues found that properties of chicken soup help soothe sore throats and ease other cold symptoms. Soups made with vegetable broths likewise offer anti-inflammatory properties and comforting goodness, maintains green living expert Annie B. Bond. Inspired by Haedrich’s book, Bond added her own spin to this soup for her daughter.

Grandma’s Healing Soup“This light, restorative soup is so delicious you don’t have to be sick to enjoy it,” says Bond. “Either way, its luscious fragrance helps clear sinuses, and the potatoes soothe the digestive tract. It’s a delightful broth, filled with spinach, parsley, leeks and garlic, that yields minerals, vitamins and healing antioxidants, with some winter root vegetables for sweetness. A steaming bowlful on a cold winter day is wonderfully comforting.”

Serves 4 to 5

1½ Tbsp olive oil1 large leek, well washed, white parts only, chopped

healthykids

soup’s on!Healthy Choices Kids Loveby Claire O’Neil


by Colin Chase

1 large carrot, peeled and diced small1 large potato, diced small1 parsnip, peeled and diced small 4 cloves garlic, minced5 cups vegetable stockSea salt to tasteHandful fresh parsley leaves, chopped4 oz (large handful) fresh spinach leaves, rinsed and coarsely choppedFreshly ground black pepper to taste

1. In a soup pot, heat the olive oil and add leeks, carrot, potato, parsnip and garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, over medium heat about 5 minutes. Add stock and salt to taste, and then bring to a simmer.

2. Simmer soup, partially covered, for about 5 minutes, and then stir in parsley and spinach. Simmer, partially covered, about 5 more minutes or until the vegetables are tender. Add pepper to taste and serve piping hot.

Winter Vegetable SoupThis recipe is adapted from The Cleaner Plate Club: More Than 100 Recipes for Real Food Your Kids Will Love, by Beth Bader and Ali Benjamin. “Parmesan rinds are the secret to a rich flavor in nearly any soup,” advises Bader, the mother of a 6-year-old. “When you finish up a wedge of Parmesan cheese, save the rind and freeze it for later use. When you add the rind to a hot soup, it will melt a bit and little pieces of Parmesan will blend into the soup. ” Tip: She finds farro, an ancient strain of grain, in the bulk foods aisle.

Makes 12 servings

2 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil1 large onion, chopped2/3 cup chopped carrot (about 3 medium carrots)2/3 cup chopped celery (about 3 stalks)

2 garlic cloves, minced10 cups vegetable or chicken stock1 Tbsp dried summer savory2 tsp dried thyme2 bay leaves2 small Parmesan rinds, optional1 lb sweet potatoes, peeled and diced small (¼-inch cubes)1 lb winter squash, peeled and diced small (¼-inch cubes)1 cup farro, rinsed and drained or 1 cup lentils, rinsed, sorted and drained1 bunch (about 12 oz) kale or chard greens, stemmed and choppedSea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

1. Warm the oil over medium-low heat and add the onion, carrot and celery. Sweat this combination, known as a mirepoix, until the onion is translucent.

2. Add the stock and the savory, thyme and bay leaves. Bring to a boil, and then reduce the heat to a simmer. Add the sweet potato, squash and Parmesan rinds, and then simmer for 30 minutes.

3. Add the farro or lentils and simmer for 30 more minutes (or until the lentils, if present, are al dente).

4. Add the greens, and simmer for 5 more minutes.

5. Remove the bay leaf and Parmesan rinds. Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve.

Annie B. Bond blogs and writes at AnnieBBond.com. Beth Bader blogs at ExpatriatesKitchen.blogspot.com and EatLocalChallenge.com.

Claire O’Neil is a freelance writer in Kansas City, MO.

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Haven’t we all at some time shifted to more healthy foods, enjoyed a massage, consulted with a chiro-

practor or naturopath, popped a vitamin C supplement or attended a yoga, Tai chi, qigong or Pilates class? Many of us also meditate regularly and pray for sick friends and relatives. If we’ve engaged in any of these activities, we are among the nearly two-thirds of Americans that use complementary and alternative medi-cine (CAM) therapies each year. While these approaches to wellness have been practiced for millennia, it’s only been in the past decade or so that they have begun to move from the U.S. alternative fringe into the American mainstream. The widespread use of CAM therapies is due to a confluence of

three trends: a growing body of cred-ible scientific research that supports their effectiveness; popular demand for these natural, non-invasive and effective therapies; and growing recognition by conventional practitioners that healing is accomplished through holistic treatments that address body, mind and spirit.

Signs of the TimesToday, even the staid American Medical Association recommends a multivita-min supplement for virtually everyone; you can find a yoga class in almost any YMCA or community college; presti-gious medical schools have departments of complementary and alternative medi-cine; and some hospitals are encourag-ing their staff to become proficient in en-ergy medicine and healing techniques.

The U.S. government established the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) in 1992, under the auspices of the National Institutes of Health, to investigate and evaluate promising unconventional medical practices. In the 21st century, it’s been picked up more widely under the concept of integrative medicine, in which conventional medical and more natural therapies are used to comple-ment one another. This encouraging development also reflects current trends among major categories of therapies that take body, mind and spirit into account.

Acupuncture/Traditional Chinese MedicineUnderstanding Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) requires a dramatic mental shift away from symptom-related modalities of Western medicine. Here, one’s wellness and illness is based on managing the flow of energy, or chi (pronounced CHEE), through the body. TCM has been used in China and others parts of Asia for 5,000 years. Its core concept requires that the practitioner treat the underlying causes of disease, rather than just the symptoms. TCM has now become foundational in modern thinking as well, prompting an understanding that the entire organism—body, mind and spirit—must be ad-dressed in order for healing to take place. “Homotoxicology is the most exciting trend in TCM today,” says Jonathan Wald, an acupuncture physi-cian and academic dean of East West College of Natural Healing, in Sarasota, Florida. He explains: “It’s a blend of homeopathy, acupuncture and herbal medicine, with allopathic diagnostic techniques.” Homotoxicology (some-times called biopuncture) applies herb-al and homeopathic solution injections at specifically related energy meridian points to relieve various disease condi-tions or pain and rebalance the body. Another promising development is use of the Ryodaraku machine that measures electrical resistance to identify diseases in their beginning stages, afford-ing early treatment. “I think of Ryodaraku almost as a TCM form of a blood test,” says Wald. “It helps us see what’s going on and we can often correct it with a little electrical stimulation pen.”

ALTERNATIVE GOES MAINSTREAMToday’s Complementary Trends

Support Natural Health Careby Kathleen Barnes


Today, TCM and Western allopathic medicine are being considered in concert more often as practitioners find practical common ground in hospitals and clinical settings throughout the United States.

Energy TherapiesCurrent energy therapies comprise a broad range of hands-on healing modalities, ranging from Reiki, Heal-ing Touch and Emotional Freedom Techniques (tapping), to an increasing array of hybrids. The Energy Medicine Institute (EnergyMed.org), in Ashland, Oregon, notes that energy medicine can employ a variety of non-invasive methods intended to trigger the body’s natural healing powers, working to acti-vate energies that have become weak-ened, disturbed or unbalanced. According to the institute, flow, balance and harmony can be restored and maintained within an energy system by tapping, massag-ing, pinching, twisting or con-necting specific energy points (known as acupoints) on the skin; tracing or swirling the hand over the skin along specific energy path-ways; exercises or postures designed for specific energetic effects; focused use of the mind to alter specific energies; and/or surrounding an area with healing energies (one person’s energies impact another’s). Nicolas Ortner, founder of The Tapping Solution, calls this Emotional Freedom Techniques-based energy modality, “…a combination of ancient Chinese acupressure and modern psychology.” By tapping on meridian

points of the body while repeating cer-tain helpful affirmations about health or emotional situations, energetic blockages can be removed, allow-ing profound physical and emotional changes to take place. Ortner is excited about the grow-ing awareness of self-guided healing through energy modalities, including his technique. “We had 350,000 people at our online Tapping World Summit last year,” he says. “That says something about the need that we are fulfilling.”

HerbalismHerbalism is widely practiced world-wide to heal body and mind, and herbs and other plants are sometimes used in spiritual healing. Herbs are

commonly prescribed by con-ventional physicians in Europe. In 1978, the German Com-mission E published a list of

more than 300 herbs, noting research attesting to their safety and effective-ness, as well as possible side effects and drug interactions. The United States has lagged in its acceptance of herbal interventions. Still, Susun Weed, founder of the Wise

Woman Center, in Woodstock, New York, and author of four herbal books, includ-ing Healing Wise, points out that drug companies have been quick to isolate various herbal medicine components and market them as prescription drugs. “In the ’60s, I discovered that the weeds in my garden were bet-ter medicinal plants than the ones I intentionally planted,” recalls Weed. “Back then, there was a general belief that these alternative systems weren’t ‘real’ medicine.” But it’s more a matter of the Western world catching up with the rest of the world, she notes. “The World Health Organization says that 90 percent of the health care given on this planet is given by women in their own homes, using local plants.” Weed reports that across the United States, attendance at herbal conferences has soared. Herbalism is a big idea whose time has come again, and is now being rewoven into family life. “I call it re-weaving the healing

cloak of the ancients,” she says. “This is evolutionary medicine.”

HomeopathyHomeopathy, operating on

the principle of “like treats like,” involves the use of highly diluted sub-

stances to trigger the body’s natural pro-cess of healing. According to The Soci-ety of Homeopaths, “A substance which causes symptoms when taken in large doses, can be used in small amounts to treat those same symptoms.” For example, drinking too much coffee can cause sleeplessness and agitation. Thus, when caffeine is made into a homeopathic medicine, it could be used to treat people with these symptoms.


Dana Ullman, author of The Homeopathic Revolution and Ev-erybody’s Guide to Homeopathic Medicines, notes that the trend in homeopathy in the United States has its debunkers. He attributes this to establishment fears that, “If homeopathy is true, then everything about modern medicine and science is false.” But, he adds, “The homeopathy deniers ignore or downplay the substantial body of verifying evidence from basic science and clinical research—from outcome studies, cost-effectiveness studies and epidemiological evidence.”

Meditation and Related TherapiesThe Centers for Disease Control and Prevention note that 90 percent of all doctor office visits are related to stress. Meditation, breath work, guided imagery and some yoga disciplines are effective ways to slow down the mind, relieve stress and bring body , mind and spirit into balance. More than 1,000 pub-lished studies have linked various types of meditation as well as contemplative yoga to changes in metabolism, blood pressure, brain activation, stress relief and pain reduction. Angela Wilson, assistant director of the Institute for Extraordinary Living (IEL), affiliated with the Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health, in Lenox, Massa-chusetts, reports burgeoning interest in these therapies. “Doctors have become very interested in any practice that can help people slow down and calm down,” observes Wilson. A 2007 NCCAM study found that 9.4 percent of U.S. adults, more than 20 million people, had prac-

ticed meditation in the previous year. Some of the latest IEL research provides scientific proof that Kripalu yoga (often

called “medita-tion in motion”) can act as a buffer, “…help-

ing people to face daily chal-

lenges without getting rocked off their feet or off their center,” says Wilson. She is also excited about a recent Massachusetts General Hos-pital study. It showed that in just eight weeks of practicing medi-tation, subjects experienced

physiological changes in the part of the limbic system that relates to fear, resulting in less stress and anxiety.

NaturopathyNaturopathic medicine, a general system of natural medicine, includes nutrition, herbalism, homeopathy, acupuncture and energy medicine. Its goal is to holistically address the entire organism—body, mind and spirit. In general, naturopathic physicians are those that work to support our in-nate healing abilities. They universally encourage adoption of lifestyle changes that promote optimal health. In states where naturopathic doc-tors (ND) are licensed, practitioners are required to graduate from a four-year residential naturopathic medical school and pass a board examination. In states that do not license them, people that successfully complete online courses can call themselves a naturopath. Carl Hangee-Bauer, current presi-dent of the national association and a doctor of naturopathy with San Fran-cisco Natural Medicine, has long been a proponent of licensing. He observes, “Currently, 16 states license naturo-paths, and the trend is toward more licensing states and inclusion in federal programs, as well as loan forgiveness.” He believes this will bring more quali-fied students to the profession. Economics is among the many incentives driving consumers to a greater awareness of the benefits of pursuing wellness, as they come to understand how major, long-term medical bills might be reduced by applying common sense, healthy lifestyle practices and other do-able steps toward preventing illness in the first place. “Our practice is growing every year. People are willing to pay for quality health care,” remarks Hangee-Bauer.

NutritionNutrition comprises the time-tested foundation of health and includes foods


and vitamin and mineral supplements, as well as herbs and spices. Important-ly, core values about nutrition vary from culture to culture. In the United States, the Standard American Diet (SAD) has been off-track for long enough that it has resulted in a widespread health crisis. The problem is that, contrary to the counsel of nutrition experts, many of us have become heav-ily dependent upon high-fat, high-sugar, heavily processed foods. The typical American’s diet is severely lacking in recommended vegetables, fruits and whole grains. “The health crisis isn’t limited to the United States,” states Joshua Rosen-thal, founder of the Institute for Integra-tive Nutrition, in New York City. “Fast food and processed foods have invaded other traditional cultures, as well. To-day’s chronic diseases that plague our own population now constitute a world health crisis.” Rosenthal is encouraged by the growing awareness of healthy eating, as taught by 19,000 graduates of his school, providing services in all 50 states and 82 countries. “We are at the beginning of a revolution,” he says. “By 2020, people will see that the quality of our food affects everything. Awareness and education are at the forefront of this revolution, and move-ments like ours are among the major catalysts for change.”

Looking ForwardOverall, today’s trends in CAM thera-pies are positive, hopeful and helpful. Conventional medicine seems to be be-coming more open to a broad range of therapies it once peremptorily relegated to the scientific dustbin. New research and long-term evidence proves that many of these non-invasive therapies are effective and can work hand-in-hand with conventional therapies. Individually and in combination, they can result in healings and cures once unimaginable to traditional practitioners.

Kathleen Barnes has written 18 books, most of them on natural health and healthy living, and owns the publishing company Take Charge Books. Connect at KathleenBarnes.com.


How to Be a Good Patientby Terri Evans

Being a good patient is essential to any successful treatment, espe-cially holistic treatment. Often,

people seeking alternative care arrive at a practitioner’s or therapist’s office fed up with conventional treatment and confused by the lack of permanent healing, yet newly expectant of receiv-ing quick answers and recovery. It helps if the individual understands how the two approaches differ and can even complement one another. With conventional medical care, doctors focus on identifying the disease that is creating the symptoms affecting the patient. The goal is to halt the pro-gression of the disease and/or sustain life. Alternative practitioners’ goal is a patient’s overall wellness and improved quality of life. They focus on uncover-ing and alleviating any imbalances that are robbing the individual of their qual-ity of life. A holistic practitioner and pa-tient are a team with a mutual mission. This means they can expect to spend time together completing and evaluat-ing detailed medical histories and life-style information sheets, consulting and

sharing observations, collaborating in carrying out treatment and cooperating in initial and follow-up examinations. The personal patient/client relationship is generally more intensive than experi-enced with conventional services. As with any field, it is important to check a practitioner’s credentials and educational background to ensure that he or she is qualified. It’s also vital that each service provider be a good fit for a patient’s needs, personality and circumstances. So much information is available today via the Internet that figuring out the best combination of treatment options can be overwhelming and confusing. Informed, friendly collabora-tion between practitioner and patient produces the best results in restoring and even expanding overall quality of life. Here are some tips on how patients can serve their own best interests. Take responsibility. Play an active role in improving your own health. Become knowledgeable about options presented by a trusted practitioner. Taking action in spite of possible fears

healingways gives you some sense of control. Partner with your practitioner. Offer regular, precise and accurate re-ports on your treatment’s progress. With alternative care, treatment is highly individualized and requires ongoing monitoring and adjustment to discern what is working and what isn’t. Follow and continue treatment as advised and exercise patience and compassion for yourself and your treatment team. Take care of yourself. Eat healthy, sleep until rested and regularly engage in suitable physical activity and gentle exercise. Call whenever you need help or advice. Stick with it. Expect incremental progress, even in the face of setbacks. Visualize an optimum state of wellness for yourself. Past failures do not need to be repeated when you work in tandem with your practitioner partner(s). Watch for relief, then acknowledge and nur-ture it by being a good patient. Share all good news with your practitioner. Don’t own the disease. Avoid scary labels and lists of symptoms in discussions with yourself and others. You want them to visualize health right along with you. Maintain a healthier lifestyle. Returning to old habits may cause prob-lems to return. Make health a priority in daily choices. Treat your practitioner with respect. Caring natural practitioners are ready and willing to walk with you on your path of healing. Forego rants about past bad experiences and direct any complaints about lack of coverage for alternative treatment toward the insurance companies. Remember, your success is also your natural practitioners’ success, and they are invested in answering your questions and earning your trust. Help them help you. Finally, let them know when they’re doing a good job; a little appreciation goes a long way during a day of caretaking.

Terri Evans has a worldwide practice that began in Southwest Florida in 1991. A Doctor of Oriental Medicine and licensed acupuncture physician, she is certified in many modalities of alternative medicine. Learn more at MagnifyYourHealth.org.


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In the Year 2012 Dispelling the Mystery by Linda Sechrist

inspiration

John Major Jenkins, a respected 2012 author of Maya Cosmogen-esis 2012 and The 2012 Story,

and director of The Center for 2012 Studies, created contemporary aware-ness of the galactic alignment of the sun with the center of the Milky Way galaxy, which underlies the famous 2012 cycle-ending date on a winter solstice. His studies of the original Mayan calendar, located in Izapa, supported the true day count of the Mayan Long Count calendar. Jenkins points out that according to the calculations of astronomer Jean Meeus, this alignment began around 1980 and will end around 2016. “Meeus’ calculations support my belief that the alignment occurs over time, rather than precisely on December 21, 2012,” advises Jenkins. Robert Sitler’s long-standing personal relationships with today’s Maya and formal study of their living communities in Mexico and Guate-mala inform his latest book, The Living Maya: Ancient Wisdom in the Era of 2012. He serves as director of Latin American studies at Stetson University, in DeLand, Florida.

Searching “Maya 2012” on-line yields a morass of some 10 million results, so Natural Awakenings sought clarity about the phenomenon of expected world change as-sociated with December 21, 2012, by focusing on what leading authorities have to say.

Both experts agree that Decem-ber 21, 2012 signals neither the end of the world nor the conclusion of the complex Mayan calendar; it is however, the end of the 13-Bak’tun cycle of 5,125 years. The calendrical cosmology indicates that this period comes to fruition on December 21, 2012, the northern hemisphere’s winter solstice. “Nothing in any of the ancient hieroglyphs refers to the end of the world,” advises Sitler. He further notes that contemporary Mayas’ strong environmental ethic aptly supports the needed shift in consciousness forecast-ed for 2012. From Jenkins’ perspective, the shift is what the ancient Maya saw as a transformation and renewal involving an awakening of consciousness. “It is a misconception that the awakening will automatically happen on December twenty-first.” He explains that Mayan spiritual teachings intended to em-power individuals and provide guide-lines for how awakening can occur in a ceremonial context at the end of cycles. “To the living Maya, awakening from a state of ego-centered, self-serv-ing sleep means waking up to a larger perspective of unity consciousness; of seeing that our collective state of out-of-control egoism and greed is not good for Earth,” says Jenkins. Daniel Pinchbeck, author of 2012: The Return of Quetzalcoatl and editor of the online blog Reality Sand-wich, concurs. He believes, “We are undergoing a transformative process now, as a collective organism, which will lead to an evolutionary leap of consciousness on a species level.” He believes we’re on the way to develop-ing an integral worldview; a holistic perspective that realizes the value of indigenous and traditional knowledge systems, without rejecting the scien-tific and technical developments of modern times.

For more information, visit RobertSitler.com, TheCenterFor2012Studies.com and RealitySandwich.com.

Linda Sechrist is a senior staff writer for Natural Awakenings.


communityspotlightby Julie Hurley

Mary DeLange, founder and owner of Harmony ‘n Health in Grand Rapids, has lived a healthy lifestyle for nearly 30 years.

In 1978, after a family member convinced her to rid her pantry of white flour and other processed foods, she replaced all the food in her home with healthy food. “I changed our whole diet around. We even ate raw foods,” said DeLange. “My husband did this diet with me and it was fantastic! My kids, who were tiny at the time, were eating this way too. We all felt so much better and noticed our energy levels becoming stronger.” After switching her family over to healthier foods, DeLange no-ticed marked improvement in her daughter’s allergies. But the young girl continued to have chronic health issues, including pinkeye, re-curring impetigo and severe constipation. DeLange decided to take her to a colon hydrotherapist. “Colon hydrotherapy was extremely helpful in helping my daughter’s health issues,” said DeLange. “I, too, decided to have colonics and started noticing the benefits. I did not feel as bloated or fatigued. I did not have that nagging backache or the chronic constipation. Over all, I started to feel much better. I had a lot more energy and felt really healthy.” Experiencing the benefits of colon hydrotherapy personally, DeLange became very interested in learning more about colonics. DeLange derives great pleasure and passion for her work. “I absolutely love helping people feel better, though it does not happen instantly,” said DeLange. “There are many people out there who are very constipated and it takes time to rid the colon of the impacted fecal matter that has been accumulating for many years. Colonics are important when it comes to eliminating properly. Fiber and cleansing supplement kits are usually not enough to rid the body of accumulated fecal matter or toxins that can back up in the colon.” Though the topic of one’s bowel movements still isn’t brought up in casual conversation, it is something that every one of us deals with personally. DeLange is intent on informing her clients exactly what is involved during a session to help them feel more comfortable. DeLange feels that colonics are an essential element to one’s health. People come for different reasons to experience a colonic. Some people come in because they saw a famous actor or actress on television that had one done. Others come in because they have real health issues and want to feel better. Some people come because they are very constipated. They have seen their doctors, gotten stool softeners and still can’t go. Still others come in because they feel they do maintain a healthy lifestyle but want to have a colonic because they are fasting or doing some kind of body cleanse. Whatever the circumstances that are going on in these people’s lives, colonics are healthy and bring harmony and balance to one’s health. DeLange says that not all people respond the same way to a colonic. Depending on the buildup, some people will experience a release right away while for others it will take time. She takes into account each person’s personal health history and eating habits be-fore making a recommendation of how many sessions are needed for optimum relief. As with the most long-term fixes, the client will need to make an effort and take measures in eating healthier in order for success to take place. For instance, a healthy diet of fresh fruits and vegetables, salads, drinking eight to ten eight-ounce glasses of water per day and staying away from breads, pastas, pizza and large portions of red meat is vital to the colonic. And, of course, for any

lasting and long-term results, one should really not return to their old eating habits; DeLange says these habits prob-ably contributed to their health issues in the first place. The method that DeLange uses in her practice is called the Wood Gravitational Method, which provides a gentle internal bath that helps cleanse the colon of poisons, gas and accumulated fecal matter. Water is not retained, but constantly flows in and out of the colon. DeLange says colonics are important because when one does not eliminate properly, waste may not be expelled for days, weeks, months or years. When one does not eliminate their waste, toxins back up in the colon, which can cause auto-intoxication or self-poisoning. This occurs when the bowel walls become encrusted with uneliminated fecal matter, hampering the absorption of vital nutrients and providing a breeding ground for unhealthy bacteria. Blood capillar-ies lining the bowel wall begin to absorb these toxins in the blood stream, subsequently polluting all of our organs and cells, setting the stage for “dis-ease”. This lowers our overall feeling of health and vitality. There are wonderful benefits to colon hydrotherapy. Colonics can help lower blood pressure, and assist the body in releasing excess mucous, parasites and other unhealthy conditions of the colon. Colonics can also help break up blockages in the colon and relieve spasms. Colonics will often relieve back pain caused by excess pressure from the colon and may lessen or eliminate PMS symptoms and skin conditions. Colonics can also help shorten the recovery time during colds and flu. DeLange wishes that everyone’s New Year’s Resolution be one of a healthy lifestyle. A lifestyle that includes exercise, having a massage, eating better, drinking enough water, and having a clean colon, all of which are the keys to good health. Harmony ‘n Health participates in the NAN~Natural Awakenings Network, a discount card for a large network of providers. As a NAN member, Harmony ‘n Health is providing $10 off a one-hour massage and $5 off each Colon Hydro-therapy Session. For more information, visit www.naturalwest-michigan.com/nan-natural-awakenings-network-for-members.

For more information visit Harmony ‘n Health at www.harmonynhealth.net or call 616-456-5033. See ad pages 6 & 45.

A married mother of two young children, Julie Hurley is a freelance writer with a strong interest in natural living. She is also the Director of Public Relations at Principia Media, a publishing house in Grand Rapids, MI: www.principiamedia.com.


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“Pilates can help to build and maintain lean muscle mass while you are losing weight,

realign posture as the body’s center of gravity changes, promote long elegant posture and graceful flowing movement, and keep you centered and energized—all at the same time,” explains Jillian Hessel, a Los Angeles-based Pilates teacher with 26 years’ experience. “I find that many people are suc-cessfully losing weight with Pilates be-cause they become much more aware of their bodies, and in turn, treat them bet-ter and make better food choices,” adds Ana Cabán, a Pilates fitness expert who has operated studios on both coasts. After chatting with a panel of pros and diving into the fitness method’s history, we arrived at the top five ways to become trim and toned by practic-ing Pilates.

Burn More CaloriesCreating muscle mass is one of the best ways to increase calorie-burning potential. Pilates can help accomplish that in spades. “Simply stated, Pilates is strength training,” says Alycea Ungaro, owner of Real Pilates, in New York City. “We work with resistance to increase strength and hence, muscle mass. Us-

ing springs and different apparatus to increase the load to the muscles,

we can affect a metabolic increase by building lean

muscle mass.” Individuals can add a variety of tools to a basic Pilates mat routine to help tone muscles all over and avoid boredom. “I enjoy adding bands, body rings and light weights to my routine because it provides variety and challenges muscles in a different way,” says Cabán.

PILATES FOR WEIGHT LOSSStrengthen, Lengthen and Tone

by Victoria Everman

fitbody

Pilates, similar to yoga in its concentration on breathing, was developed by Joseph Pilates in just the past century. While it’s rare to break much of a sweat during a session, with its focus on major muscle groups and slow, intentional move-ments, Pilates has become a popular practice for effecting weight loss.

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Resistance bands are easily portable, yet create a considerable amount of challenging resistance to help firm and tone. The body ring, well known among Pilates enthusiasts, is another resistance tool used during mat exer-cise, often focusing on the lower body and core muscles.

Look ThinnerOne of the best ways to look and feel thinner is to maintain good posture. Pilates helps create better posture by firming not only the abs, but the back, as well. “All Pilates work is performed with proper alignment and attention to posture. By establishing optimal spi-nal alignment, you can facilitate better circulation, improved lymphatic flow and increased stamina of the muscles along the spine,” says Ungaro. Not only will toned spinal muscles help with continued weight loss vis-à-vis increased metabolism, standing up straight will au-tomatically make a person appear thin-ner, thereby increasing one’s confidence, as well. “You will stand taller, hold your waist tighter and feel stronger,” she adds.

Craft Core MusclesPilates is all about core strength—front and side abdominals and the entire back. Toned abs and a strong back help to prevent injury, improve posture, reduce lower back pain and even promote prop-er bowel function. But the most popular result is flat abdominals.

“Pilates teaches people how to use their abdominals correctly—how to contract the abdominal wall, rather than let it distend. This simple mechanism can be used 24/7 in your daily life. That is the single reason that Pilates flattens abs so quickly,” comments Ungaro.

Improve Eating Habits

“The increased body awareness will also make you less likely to indulge in unhealthy eating habits,” notes Ungaro. Experiencing the improvements to your body and of what it’s capable is incred-ibly motivating. “You will have a new respect for your body and be more likely to take better care of it,” she says.

Complete with CardioNo weight loss regimen is complete without cardiovascular work. Com-bining the strength training of Pilates and a consistent cardio session works to help you lose weight and tone up nearly twice as fast as doing either routine on its own. Walking up hills works, or to add variety and challenge, “Consider swimming, running or the elliptical machine,” suggests Ungaro. “Steady-state activity is great for cardio conditioning.”

Victoria Everman, a freelance writer in San Francisco, California, contributes to Gaiam.com, from which this was adapted.

Once a favorite of 1930s New York

City dancers George Balanchine and Martha Graham, Pilates now has

10 million followers in the United States alone.

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wisewords

Deepak Chopra, founder of the Chopra Founda-

tion and the Chopra Center for Wellbeing, in Carlsbad, California, is a New York Times bestselling author and world-renowned authority in the field of mind-body heal-ing. Regarded by Time Magazine as the “poet-prophet of alternative medicine,” he also lectures around the world and hosts Deepak Chopra Radio on BlogTalkRadio.com.

In war of the worldviews: sci-ence vs. spiri-tuality, you and physicist Leonard Mlodinow debate humanity’s most fundamental perennial questions. What is the crux of this contention?Overall, my co-author suggests that the universe operates according to laws of physics, while acknowledging that sci-ence does not address why the laws ex-ist or how they arise. I maintain that the laws of nature, as well as mathematics, share the same source as human con-sciousness. He further observes that while science often casts doubt on spiritual beliefs and doctrines insofar as they make representations about the physi-cal world, science does not—and can-

not—conclude that God is an illusion. While not defending God in religious terms, I maintain that God is a way of understand-ing some extremely crucial things: the source of existence, the reality beyond space-time and the underlying conscious-ness and creativity of the universe.

What is your understanding of consciousness?Consciousness is that which makes possible perception, cognition, emotions, personal relationships, biology, biological function, the environment and its relationship to us, as well as the universe and its relationship to us. Without conscious-

ness, there would be none of this.

Do you feel consciousness and God are one and the same?Yes, God is infinite consciousness that expresses itself as the universe. We are little bubbles of consciousness in the ocean of consciousness. Outside of space-time, Infinite Consciousness expresses itself and gives birth to every form of individual consciousness—the individual observer and the internal process of observation, as well as the objects, which are also experienced within the observer.

What steps can we take to shift human consciousness?No social transformation happens in the absence of personal transforma-tion. Therefore, without worrying about other people, the questions to ask your-self are these: Can I be the change that I want to see in the world? What kind of world do I want to live in and how can I become the agent to create that world for myself? When we are personally prac-ticing the divine attitudes of loving kindness, joy, compassion and equa-nimity, we are moving out of our limited ego. If we all do this and reach critical mass, it is possible to create a peaceful, just, sustainable and healthy world—but we each have to shift our self to get where we want to go. To make such a radical shift, we must ex-plore the process of waking up, which centers on transcending the maelstrom of everyday thoughts to find the Source of the mind.

How do you define transcendence?There are many levels of transcendence. The most profound is deep meditation, known to alter brain structure and lead to lasting transformation. Transcen-dence can also happen through deep contemplation, mindfulness, music, poetry, art in any form, dance, falling in love and selfless service. Whenever you experience any quality of pure con-sciousness, however fleeting, you have transcended the mundane. Pure consciousness, which is the unseen, infinite potential from which everything springs, is centered within itself; silent and peaceful, awake, self-organizing, spontaneous, dy-namic, blissful, knowing, whole and encompassing. Despite the infinite diversity of the physical world, at a deeper level, only one process is oc-curring: Wholeness is moving like a single ocean that holds every wave. You experience this quality when your life makes sense and you feel a part of nature; you are at home simply by being alive.

Linda Sechrist is a senior staff writer for Natural Awakenings.

Deepak Chopra Explores Conscious Being

by Linda Sechrist

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It’s shocking and to-the-point, but health edu-cator, raw chef and author Adam Graham

believes that chronic disease and illness are the body’s way of saying “I’m done talking; these are the results. You’re not honoring the natural system. Here you go; here’s a tumor.” As a big proponent of raw foods and author of the new book The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Raw Food Detox, (Alpha Books, 2011) he believes that the standard American diet (SAD) numbs your body’s senses, and in a sense turns up the stereo all the way until the senses are overloaded, allowing chronic disease and illness to manifest as a wake up call to the body. “If your whole life has the volume of a rock concert or train whistle, you can’t hear someone clapping,” said Graham. “While eating the standard American diet, you de-stroy your body’s intuition. The body begins to protect itself by coating everything in mucus and storing everything in fat. It wraps toxins in fat so that those toxins don’t go out and destroy the body. When you wrap up blobs of toxic waste, it looks like cellulite.” While being introduced to raw food during an extended trip to Taiwan, Graham began teaching himself about the raw food lifestyle and its benefits. After reading that a raw food diet can boost the immune system, clear up bad skin, and improve digestion, among many other things, he decided to put it to the test and found that it worked. “I’m one of those people growing up who was always skinny. I was the cleanup hitter; if there was anything left on the plate, I’d snatch it up. I was able to stuff myself,” said Graham. “Around age 28, I was introduced to Yoga by a friend and that was the start of my waking up experience. I was getting disillusioned with the college scene. In Yoga class, the people there were completely different from the people that I normally associated with. It was a personal awakening, and I began to identify social crutches, alcohol being one of them.” He then began refining his diet, re-moving meat and dairy, mainly because what he learned of Yoga said that those foods were heavy, both physically and metaphorically: if you ingest animals that are byproducts of suffering and slavery, then you become the same. “I became sort of a flexitarian; I’d never buy a steak, but if a friend made one, I’d eat it, after which I’d suffer the consequences,

mainly digestion issues,” said Graham. “I decided that I didn’t want the SAD diet anymore, I found out I was lactose intol-erant and had issues with gluten/wheat. After starting with one week of raw foods, I began to extend the stretches of eating raw food and noticed dramatic differences. I began to hear the clapping.” Graham’s book, part of the Com-plete Idiot’s Guide series, is a beginner’s guide to everything raw, and makes a very compelling case for ditching cooked foods. Laid out in a very simple, and action-oriented format, the reader is left wanting to jump into “going raw” at their next meal. Who wouldn’t want to, after learning about some of the health ben-efits: a youthful complexion, improved digestion, more energy, better sleep and natural, sustained weight loss? Graham’s raw food detox diet re-stores health and initiates healing without negative side effects. The book contains not only raw food recipes, but recipes that are “consciously cooked,” which provides a certain level of comfort and familiarity to many people, and can provide as good transition recipes on the way to a raw food diet, which can be very helpful in social situations. “Socially, it’s really hard to go raw. People are so resistant to change; it’s like you’re trying to violate them in some way by making them eat something they’ve deemed disgusting,” said Graham. “I’ve found that 90 percent of the people in my classes are women; where are the guys? It’s this whole ‘meat macho’ thing that keeps them away. But what’s very ironic is that a diet of meat has been shown to cause erectile dysfunction, sterility, and loss of libido, undermining everything macho.” Graham recommends putting together a Raw Survival Kit when out with friends or in other social situations. “I’ll pack an avocado, a jar with dressing, and some dehydrated crack-ers that I made. This is so I can snack while other people stuff their face. It’s something that I can eat so I don’t reach for the bread basket. I’ll pack tea bags; every restaurant has hot water. Some Stevia,” said Graham. “I have to plan a little bit more and be responsible, but it gets easier. Sometimes you suck it up and or-der a salad minus dressing. It does get people curious, when you pull this jar of dressing out. That’s when I can begin a conversation about a raw food diet, when people ask questions.”

The Standard American Diet is ToxicThe Complete Idiot’s Guide to Raw Food Detox

Book review by Julie Hurley

When asked what his go-to or favorite recipes are from the book, he lists a few: Brownie Bites, p. 176 (correction: use 1 tablespoon of Maca, not ¼ cup), Avocado Apple Gadget, p. 157 (great for picnics) and the Almond Miso Spread, p. 125 (per-fect dip for apples, reminiscent of caramel sauce). His favorite kid’s recipe is the Coco-Banana Gadget, p. 173. “It’s important getting your kids comfort-able with the fresh produce aisle, fresh fruits especially,” said Graham. “It took me until I was in my 20s to appreciate broccoli; don’t expect them to do back flips over cabbage. But do begin introducing things that are a little more exotic and out of their comfort zone. It’s unfortunate, but the parents’ lack of exposure and unfamiliarity is passed along to their kids. Take your child to the grocery store and let them pick out a new and different fruit and Google it to see where it came from, how you’re supposed to eat it. Tap into that natural sense of adventure that children have.” In fact, Graham encourages all of his students to re-connect with that sense of adventure. He also advised people to “for-give yourself and don’t beat yourself up for eating bread or whatever. ‘I’ve been bad.’ What’s that? It’s self-abuse. Where did we learn that? We need to dump that whole line of reasoning. Listen to what your body says to you after eating bread or some other processed, cooked food. You will probably find that you don’t like the way you feel if you really pay attention,” said Graham. Adam received much of his training while working as a chef at The Tree of Life Rejuvenation Center in Patagonia, Arizona. He frequently shares recipes and videos on his website www.livefoodexperience.com and is currently the program director at Camp Rawnora, a raw food retreat center in Watervliet, Michigan.

A married mother of two young children, Julie Hurley is a freelance writer with a strong interest in natural living. Visit her personal blog at www.ourlunchbox.blogspot.com. She is also the Director of Public Relations at Principia Media, a publishing house in Grand Rapids, MI: www.principiamedia.com.


The leading pet medical insurer, Veterinary Pet Insurance (Pet Insurance.com), ranks vomiting

among the five leading causes of claims for dogs. It’s a common symptom caused by various conditions or illnesses, some simple and others more complex.Simple CausesDietary Indiscretions – One of the more common causes of vomiting

It is rare to find a pet owner that has not suffered through bouts of vomiting by their furry friend. We’ve all cleaned the floor or furniture, shaking our head and wondering what caused the mess.

NAUSEOUS PETSCauses and Cures

by Dr. Matthew J. Heller

in dogs is careless eating. Fluffy may knock over the trash can and eat some rancid leftovers; be a little too enthusi-astic in gobbling meals; or like to snack on grass or landscape mulch. Generally, dogs that commit any of these acts tend to heave it back up in a relatively short period of time. Pharma-ceuticals can aid in controlling such vomiting, while herbal medicines such

as Happy Earth Formula (a combination of Chinese herbal remedies) work to gently soothe an upset stomach. As a general guideline, if a dog is retching due to a suspected dietary indiscretion, it is advisable to withhold food and water for 12 to 24 hours, and then gradually resume normal feeding over the next 24 to 36 hours. If there is no noticeable improvement within the first 24 hours or toxic plants, flowers or other poisonous culprits caused the vomiting, call or take the pet to a vet immediately. Possible Food Sensitivity – If a cat or dog begins to vomit after being introduced to a new diet, it may be sensitive to one of the new ingredients. If the new diet contains more fillers or byproducts, the pet may be having problems properly digesting the food. Reading a pet food label identifies ingredients. Motion Sickness – While we enjoy seeing a happy dog inhaling the fresh air with its head or nose outside a car window, some canines succumb to motion sickness, nausea and even vomiting. Pharmaceuticals (such as sedatives) and herbal medications are available to treat such discomforts. Intestinal Parasites – Many kittens and puppies are born with intestinal parasites. If a young animal is infested with roundworms or microscopic hook-worms, it may begin to vomit them up.

Some veterinarians theorize that

dogs vomit more readily than

cats in order to protect them-

selves from eating spoiled or

contaminated foods.

naturalpet

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Prior to the domestication of

small feline companions, cats

consumed rodents and similar

prey as their main food source,

so contamination was not a

concern. Cats will eject hairballs

as a result of excessive grooming

or some food sensitivity.

Most veterinarians recommend routine de-worming throughout the first few months of life. Adverse Reaction to Medica-tions – Dogs, like humans, can some-times suffer nausea and vomiting as an anticipated side effect of a prescribed medication. If a pet vomits after receiv-ing antibiotics, contact a veterinarian for advice. Some anti-inflammatory pain relief medications also may cause vomiting. Many holistic medicine proponents attest that one benefit of non-pharmaceutical options—including therapeutic laser treatment or desig-nated herbal medicines—is their lack of negative side effects.

If puking is a pet’s only symptom, the chances are good that the cause is relatively simple, inviting a straightfor-ward treatment plan. However, if the pet is also experiencing other symp-toms, such as a fever, constipation or diarrhea, if other signs of systemic dis-tress appear, such as shallow breathing or neurological abnormalities, then it is vital to immediately consult a vet.

More Serious IssuesSometimes, vomiting may be a symp-tom of a more serious illness. The following are several usual causes. Liver and Kidney Disease – When chronic (or acute) kidney or liver disease is present, the pet’s body is not able to break down toxins and process them properly, so it becomes nauseous and vomits. A compromised kidney or liver function may result from consum-ing poisonous products or a viral or bacterial infection. Pancreatitis – Dogs can suffer from acute pancreatitis as a result of consuming overly rich and fatty foods, like hot dogs or sausages (sometimes acquired via trash bin raids). In addition to vomiting, a dog’s belly often will be

tender to the touch and the animal will appear lethargic. Some breeds may be more genetically disposed to pancreatitis, such as schnauzers and Yorkies. Pancreatitis is serious and hospitalization may be required for successful treatment. Laboratory blood work will diagnose it. Foreign Object Obstruction – Sometimes dogs chew up and swal-low non-food items like a plastic toy or a stone. If the dog is lucky, the ob-ject passes out of the digestive track in the stool. Other times, the foreign object may become lodged in either the stomach or the intestines, and surgery may be required to remove it. If you witness your dog consuming a questionable object, immediately call a veterinarian. Generally, because a pet’s vomit-ing may range from the straightfor-ward to the unusual, particularly in dogs, providing context and details of its behavior is a huge help for a vet in determining the level of seriousness.

Dr. Matthew J. Heller is a holistic veterinarian and owner of All About PetCare, in Middletown, OH.


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suNdAy, JANuAry 1New Year’s Retreat - Celebrate with quiet time, meditation and introspection. $75 includes shared room lodging, delicious, home-cooked vegetarian meals 31st lunch - 1st lunch. NAN discount on retreats. Private room available. Self Realization Meditation Healing Centre. Bath. 517-641-6201. SelfRealizationCentreMichigan.org

New Year’s Family Getaway - Join Circle Pines members and friends in ushering in the New Year with music, games, wassailing and just relaxing by the wood stoves. Cost: $130 (adults) $65 (kids); in-cludes 2 nights lodging and 5 delicious, homemade meals. Circle Pines Center. Delton. 269-623-5555.

Free Resolution Yoga Classes - 10:00 am, 1:00 pm, 4:00 pm and 7:00 pm. All levels welcome-reservations recommended. Bring in your New Year intentions to a gently moving practice that integrates them with breathing and physical expression. On the Path Yoga. Spring Lake. 616-935-7028.

Transforming words - 6:00 pm. The Coptic Center welcome’s you to 2012. Join us New Years Day evening as Coptic Center director John Davis pres-ents transforming words of inspiration for the New Year. Grand Rapids. 616-531-1339.

moNdAy, JANuAry 2New Year’s Family Getaway - Join Circle Pines members and friends in ushering in the New Year with music, games, wassailing and just relaxing by the wood stoves. Cost: $130 (adults) $65 (kids); in-cludes 2 nights lodging and 5 delicious, homemade meals. Circle Pines Center. Delton. 269-623-5555.

Relaxation for Body, Mind & Spirit day - 11:00 am - 5:00 pm. Includes gentle yoga class and deli-cious home cooked lunch & refreshments; with time in the quiet for your spirit, $39. Optional Pure Meditation Foundation class. $40. Self Realization Meditation Healing Centre. Bath. 517-641-6201. www.SelfRealizationCentreMichigan.org.

Free Yoga Class - 5:45-7:00 pm. Try a free yoga class this week at our Anusaru inspired studio with a view of Lake Versluis. We have the mat, the props, all you need to bring is you! Come early, classes fill up! Free. Expressions of Grace Yoga. Grand Rapids. 616-361-8580.

tuesdAy, JANuAry 3Free Yoga Class - 5:45-7:00 pm. Try a free yoga class this week at our Anusaru inspired studio with a view of Lake Versluis. We have the mat, the props, all you need to bring is you! Come early, classes fill up! Free. Expressions of Grace Yoga. Grand Rapids. 616-361-8580.

wedNesdAy, JANuAry 4Free Yoga Class - 9:30-10:45 am or 5:45-7:00 pm. Try a free yoga class this week at our Anusaru inspired studio with a view of Lake Versluis. We have the mat, the props, all you need to bring is you! Come early, classes fill up! Free. Expressions of Grace Yoga. Grand Rapids. 616-361-8580.

Guided Meditation and Healing Circle - 7:00-8:00 pm. Escape from stress and discover an inner world of calm, peace & joy through guided meditation, and energy healing from Healing in America-trained healers. $5. Holistic Care Approach. Grand Rapids. 269-929-6796.

Journey Dance Class for Women - 7:15-8:45 pm. Holistic Dance Fitness for Mind, Body & Spirit. Weaving simple, guided movement sequences and free exploration, JourneyDance reconnects you with your innate state of joyous well-being. $15 or $52 for 4 classes. Expressions of Grace Yoga. Grand Rapids. 616-361-8580.

tHursdAy, JANuAry 5Free Yoga Class - 5:45-7:00 pm. Try a free yoga class this week at our Anusaru inspired studio with a view of Lake Versluis. We have the mat, the props, all you need to bring is you! Come early, classes fill up! Free. Expressions of Grace Yoga. Grand Rapids. 616-361-8580.

fridAy, JANuAry 6Free Yoga Class - 9:30-10:45 am. Taught by Carol Hendershot. We’ll provide the mats, the props, just wear loose comfortable clothing and arrive early these free sample classes fill up fast! Free. Expres-sions of Grace Yoga. Grand Rapids. 616-361-8580.

sAturdAy, JANuAry 7Free Yoga Class - 9:30-10:45 am. Taught by Carol Hendershot. We’ll provide the mats, the props, just wear loose comfortable clothing and arrive early these free sample classes fill up fast! Free. Expres-sions of Grace Yoga. Grand Rapids. 616-361-8580.

suNdAy, JANuAry 8Interfaith Silent Meditation - 1:00 pm. With Rev. Toni Van Dyken. Deepen your spiritual journey in a practice of true pluralism where there is no need to defend or convince. In conjunction with 2012: The Year of Interfaith Understanding for the City of Grand Rapids. Donation accepted. On the Path Yoga. Spring Lake. 616-935-7028.

tuesdAy, JANuAry 10Dad’s Role in Birth - 6:30 pm. Presented by Simply Born. FREE. Seminar located at Thrive Chiropractic 7199 Kalamazoo Ave., Suite 234. Caledonia. Must RSVP 616-554-5070.

wedNesdAy, JANuAry 11 Herbal Class - 6:00 pm. Fight the winter chills with herbs you most likely have in your own pan-try! Come and explore with herbalist Lisa Rose Starner, how to put those herbs to use in new ways. $10. Elder & Sage. Grand Rapids. 616-617-3130.

Introduction to Reiki:Urevia - 7:00 pm. This intro overviews the Reiki: Urevia Classes and provides a opportunity for participants to ask questions RSVP re-quired. Free. Subtle Energies. Delton. 269-671-4455.

calendarofeventsNote: Visit www.NaturalWestMichigan.com for guidelines and to submit entries. All Calendar events must be submitted online by the 15th of the month prior to publication.

Guided Meditation, Prayer and Healing Circle - 7:00-8:00 pm. Relax to guided meditation, and receive energy healing from local healers while church chaplains pray over your prayer requests. Donation. Unity Church on the Lakeshore. Douglas. 269-857-8226.


tHursdAy, JANuAry 12Reiki Share & Essential Oil Open House - 6:00-8:00 pm. Come share & learn about Reiki & Es-sential Oils. Open to all that care to share Reiki, those who would like to try receiving Reiki, and those interested in Essential Oils. Heavenly Heal-ings. No charge. Grand Rapids. 616-443-4225. [email protected].

MomsBloom Volunteer - 6:30 pm. Free Moms-Bloom volunteer training! You can be a Sanity Saver! We provide support to families who have recently had a baby. Free event. Grand Rapids. Contact Angie for more information at [email protected] or call 616-828-1021.

Hungry for Change Information Session - 6:30 pm. Find out about this free, six-week discussion course that explores the impact our food choices have on our health, the health of others and the health of our planet. C3Exchange. Grand Haven. Call Dolli 616-453-3539 for information.

fridAy, JANuAry 13Success Mastery Training: 6:30-8:30pm.We will explore how to use your mind to increase your success. We will explore some of the great books that have been used in the past to generate wealth and success in all aspects of life. Free. The Healing Center. Lakeview. 989-352-6500.

sAturdAy, JANuAry 14Path to Transformation Series (first meeting) - 9:00 am. An 8-week guided journey toward real change. Weekly group meetings, yoga, bodywork, journaling and meditation are included. Facilitated by Sandy Parker CPT, Anne VanderHoek, Natural Health Educator, and Toni VanDyken, Spiritual Director. $300 for series. On the Path Yoga. Spring Lake. 616-935-7028.

Essential Oil Basic Training I - 10:00 am-12:00 pm & II 1:00-3:00 pm. Learn the basics of the benefits and uses of Therapeutic Grade Essential Oils. $15 per class includes class materials & pre-registration required. Heavenly Healings. Grand Rapids. To pre-register call or email Jodi at 616-443-4225 or [email protected].

The Yoga of Eating: Mind, Food, & the Body - 1:00-2:30 pm. We will delve into the influences of food, life cycles, detoxification and environment on our mood and energy. Put the power back in your hands as we take a different approach in “emotional eating.” $25. Formless Yoga Studio. Grand Rap-ids. 616-808-1110.


sAv e t H e dAt eSave The Date Events - Must be submitted online each month at NaturalWestMichigan.com. Events priced $80 or above require a corresponding display ad. There is a $45 charge per listing, up to 50 words. If you are a current advertiser, distribution site or non-profit you October use this listing in place of one of your free listings for a $25 charge.

suNdAy, JANuAry 15Essential Oil Training III (Raindrop) - 10:00 am-12:00 pm & IV (Emotional Clearing): 1:00-3:00 pm & V (Spiritual Journey Work): 3:00-5:00 pm. Learn the benefits of these sets of oils, and how to apply them. $15 per class includes class materials & pre-registration required. Heavenly Healings. Grand Rapids. 616-443-4225.

Creating Your Own Hygenic Line at Home - 6:00-7:30 pm. In this 1 hr. class you will learn what ingredients to look out for in your Personal Hygene Products. We will discuss how those ingredients can affect our bodies. $3. Elder & Sage. Grand Rapids. 616-617-3130.

tuesdAy, JANuAry 17Top 10 Super Foods - 7:00-8:30pm. With Jean-nie Weaver, R.D. and Anne Sergeant, PhD. Free. Donations accepted. For info email [email protected] or Janice at 616-450-1843. St. Mark’s Episcopal Church 134 N. Division, Grand Rapids.

tHursdAy, JANuAry 19Hungry for Change Information Session - 6:30 pm. Find out about this free, six-week discussion course that explores the impact our food choices have on our health, the health of others and the health of our planet. C3Exchange. Grand Haven. Call Dolli at 616-453-3539 for information.

fridAy, JANuAry 20Winter Bridal Show of West MI - 1/20-1/21. Brides, groom, moms and friends, come celebrate your special day. Save time and money with one-stop wedding planning under one roof. For more info visit www.KohlerExpo.com. DeVos Place on Monroe Ave in Grand Rapids.

sAturdAy, JANuAry 21Reiki I & II Class - 10:00 am-4:00 pm. Become attuned and learn how to give treatment to self and others. $175 includes manual and the $50 deposit required to register. Heavenly Healings. Grand Rap-ids. Call or email Jodi at 616-443-4225 or [email protected] with questions or to register.

Kent County Girls on the Run Fundraiser - 1:00-2:15 pm & 2:30-3:45 pm. You’ll run farther and faster, with no pain and better flexibility with pointers from these two great workshops. (Secrets of Pain Free Running & Yoga for Runners). $15 each or $25 for both. Expressions of Grace Yoga. Grand Rapids. 616-361-8580.

Pure Meditation Foundation Class - 3:00-5:00 pm. Conquer stress, improve concentration, find inner peace, and so much more! $40 includes continuing support. Self Realization Meditation Healing Centre. Bath. Pre-registration required. A weekend retreat is also possible, NAN discount on retreats. 517-641-6201, [email protected]., SelfRealizationCentreMichigan.org.

suNdAy, JANuAry 22Advanced Reiki Class - 10:00 am-4:00 pm. Ready to enhance your Reiki skills? Learn psychic surgery to remove tough energy blocks and how to set up a crystal grid for healing. $200 includes text book,

certificate and deposit. Pre-registration w/ $50 deposit required a week prior to class. Heavenly Healings. Grand Rapids. 616-443-4225.

moNdAy, JANuAry 23Weston A. Price Foundation - 7:00-8:30 pm. The new Muskegon Chapter will be hosting its first meeting on the second floor of the newly renovated Century Club, 356 W. Western Avenue, in down-town Muskegon. For more information visit us at westonaprice.org. Call Lisa 231-744-1991 with any questions.

tuesdAy, JANuAry 24Mindfulness Practices for the Helping Professions - 9:00 am-4:00 pm. Mindfulness is a way of meeting life’s inevitable challenges and opportunities with presence and clarity. Come learn more. Registration begins at 8:00 am. Professionals $75 Students $45. Includes Lunch. Expressions of Grace Yoga. Wege Conference Center at Cathedral Square. Grand Rapids. 616-361-3660.

Be A Healthier You in 2012 - 6:00-8:00 pm. If your New Year’s resolution is to lose weight, start exercising or live pain-free then this is a must attend event! Enjoy a free chair massage; Meet the staff. Door prize drawing at 7:30 p.m. Must be present to win. Free. ChiroHealth. Rockford. 616-863-9482.

wedNesdAy, JANuAry 25Why Can’t I Eat Normal Food?: Recovering from Food Sensitivities - 6:00-7:30 pm. An average get-together can be frustrating to those with a food allergy or food intolerance. Kathryn Doran-Fisher will go over the physiological reasons for food intolerance. $3. Elder & Sage. Grand Rapids. 616-617-3130.


fridAy, JANuAry 27Winter Weekend - Come spend a beautiful winter weekend relaxing at Circle Pines Center. Cross-country ski, sauna, snowshoe, sled or just put your feet up by the fire. Cost: $130 (adults) $65 (kids); includes 2 nights lodging and 5 delicious, homemade meals. Circle Pines Center. Delton. 269-623-5555.

Anusara Yoga Workshop - Moses Brown returns to Grand Rapids. Believing that yoga should be a heart opening experience that is both supportive as well as empowering to the student; Moses brings focus, concentration, and mindfulness to his classes. Put this in your calendar! Expressions of Grace Yoga. Grand Rapids. 616-361-8580.

Success Mastery Training: 6:30-8:30pm. We will explore how to use your mind to increase your success. We will explore some of the great books that have been used in the past to generate wealth and success in all aspects of life. Free. The Healing Center. Lakeview. 989-352-6500.

sAturdAy, JANuAry 28Winter Weekend - Come spend a beautiful winter weekend relaxing at Circle Pines Center. Cross-country ski, sauna, snowshoe, sled or just put your feet up by the fire. Cost: $130 (adults) $65 (kids); includes 2 nights lodging and 5 delicious, homemade meals. Circle Pines Center. Delton. 269-623-5555.


suNdAy, JANuAry 29Winter Weekend - Come spend a beautiful winter weekend relaxing at Circle Pines Center. Cross-country ski, sauna, snowshoe, sled or just put your feet up by the fire. Cost: $130 (adults) $65 (kids); includes 2 nights lodging and 5 delicious, homemade meals. Circle Pines Center. Delton. 269-623-5555.



ongoingevents

SundayUnity Church of Peace - 10:00 am. Celebrating God’s presence in human nature. Offering uplifting messages that are spiritual without being religious. Youth programs & Nursery. Unity Church of Peace 6025 Ada Drive SE, Ada. 616-682-7812. www.unity-churchofpeace.org.

Vinyasa Yoga w/Michele Fife - 10:00 am. This class will teach the practitioner the skills to build asanas into flowing sequences by combining breath with movement. $10-$16 Seva Yoga. Grand Rapids. 616-458-2541. sevayoga.net.

Worship Service - 10:00 am. The last Sunday of each month we host this time of self-reflection and sharing. This month’s Love Offering will be new or used winter clothing. Rev. Barb Huttinga and associate Coptic Ministers speaking. The Healing Center 332 S. Lincoln, Lakeview. 989-352-6500.

Unity of Muskegon “A Church of Light, Love & Laughter” - 10:30 am weekly. Sunday Services & Youth Education. Minister: Rev. John W. Williams. 2052 Bourdon St., Muskegon. 231-759-7356. Uni-tymuskegon.org.

Unity of Grand Rapids -10:30 am. A spiritual com-munity that is warm and welcoming, inclusive and accepting of all, honoring diversity, for those who are seeking spiritual truth. 1711 Walker Ave NW, Grand Rapids. 616-453-9909. unityofgrandrapids.org.

The Coptic Center Sunday Series - 6:00 pm. An ongoing series of inspirational speakers, centering and music. Youth Ministry class one Sunday of each month during service, check schedule. The Coptic Center. Grand Rapids. 616-531-1339.

HOTCOMM Yoga - 6:00-7:15 pm. Everyone is invited to this energy filled vinyasa style yoga class. $5 donation. Core Pilates & Yoga. Grand Rapids. Reserve your spot now at corepilatesgr.com or call 616-361-2555.

Monday$30 Off BioMeridian Assessments - State-of-the-art profiling and tracking of all 58 meridians in the body with take-home computer generated results to assess progress. Grand Rapids. 616-365-9176. For more info visit Integrativenutritionaltherapies.com.

Yoga-Beginning - 9:00 am. This is where you start. Learn the basic poses, strengthen, breath awareness and relax. For more information visit SmilingLo-tusYoga.com or call Smiling Lotus Yoga, 103 E. Ludington Ave, Ludington. 231-852-0849.

Intro to Yoga Flow - 5:30-6:30 pm. Learn the basics of Vinyasa Yoga. No experience necessary. Walk-ins welcome. $8. The Club Yoga. Sparta. 616-481-6610. theclubyoga.net.

Intermediate Hatha Yoga with Mitch Coleman - 6:15-7:30 pm. Drop-ins welcome. Visit Whit-eRiverYoga.com for more information. Classes

meet at White River Yoga Studio, 8724 Ferry St., Montague. 231-740-6662.

Kripalu Yoga with Marro Spehar - 7:30 pm. Gentle/Moderate. Drop-ins welcome. For more details visit our website at sevayoga.net. Seva Yoga Studio, 2237 Wealthy St, East Grand Rapids. 616-458-2541.

TuesdayGentle Hatha Yoga with Mitch Coleman - 7:45-9:00 am & 9:15-10:30 am. Drop-ins welcome. Visit WhiteRiverYoga.com for more information. Classes meet at White River Yoga Studio, 8724 Ferry St., Montague. 231-740-6662.

Yoga for All - 9:00-10:00 am. Focuses on balanc-ing, strengthening and stretching techniques. No experience necessary. Walk-ins welcome. $8. The Club Yoga. Sparta. 616-481-6610. theclubyoga.net

Yoga for Everyone - 10:00-11:00 am. With Ruth Sutherland. $3.00. The Healing Center. Lakeview. TheHealingCenterOfLakeview.com. 989-352-6500.

Education & Advocacy Meeting - 1:00-2:30 pm. 2nd Tuesday of each month. The Peter M. Wege Health & Learning Center (Wege North Building at St. Mary’s Hospital), 300 Lafayette Ave. SE, Grand Rapids. Conference Room #11 (subject to change).

Aromatherapy Class - 6:30-8:30pm. Every 2nd Tuesday with Linda Bayer RA. Basics and different topics each month. Bayer Essence. Jenison. 616-457-7426. [email protected].

On Being a Spirit having a Physical Experience - 6:30 pm. 2nd & 4th Tuesday. From the Shamanic Teachings of the Sweet Medicine Sundance Path w/ Marie Moon Star Seeker. $10. Owl Hawk Clan. Open Mind in Rockford. 616-447-0128.

A Course In Miracles (A.C.I.M.) - 7:00-8:30 p.m. This self-study system teaches forgiveness as the road to inner peace and the remembrance of the unconditional love of God. Unity of Greater Grand Rapids. Ada. 616-682-7812.

Mystic Angel Classes - 7:00-8:30 pm. With Denise Iwanwi. $15.00. The Healing Center. Lakeview. TheHealingCenterOfLakeview.com. 989-352-6500.

Focused Energy Academic Success - 7:30 pm. Send kids to school prepared with fueled bodies & academic strength. Reliv Open Presentations at Spring Hill Suites, 450 Center NW, Grand Rapids. Deb Riolo 616-822-4247. [email protected].

Wednesday$30 Off BioMeridian Assessments - State-of-the-art profiling and tracking of all 58 meridians in the body with take-home computer generated results to assess progress. Grand Rapids. 616-365-9176. For more info visit Integrativenutritionaltherapies.com.

A Course In Miracles (ACIM) - 9:30-11:00 am. Self-study system unique in teaching forgiveness as

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

the road to inner peace and the remembrance of the unconditional love of God. Unity Church of Peace. Ada. 616-682-7812.

Kripalu Yoga with Marro Spehar - 10:00 am: Gentle & 7:30 pm: Gentle/Moderate. Drop-ins welcome. For details visit sevayoga.net. Seva Yoga Studio, 2237 Wealthy St, East Grand Rapids. 616-458-2541.

A Course in Miracles Class - 6:00-8:00 pm. With Cindy Barry. Free will offering. The Healing Center. Lakeview. TheHealingCenterOfLakeview.com. 989-352-6500.

General Anxiety support group - 7:00-8:30 pm. Open to individuals who have any kind of anxiety problem as well as their friends and family members meets every. Anxiety Resource Center, Inc. Grand Rapids. 616-356-1614. anxietyresourcecenter.org

Detoxification program - 7:00-8:30 pm. 21-day liver and gallbladder detox program-providing relief from digestive problems, joint pain, fatigue, weight gain, headaches plus much more! The Gleason Center. Spring Lake. Call 616-846-5410 by Dec. 30th to register.

JourneyDance™ - 7:15-8:00 pm. A form of con-scious dance that tones your body and strengthens your core, as you sweat away toxins and excess weight. $15/class or $52 for four classes. Expressions of Grace Yoga Studio. Grand Rapids. 616-361-8580.

ThursdayEssential Oil Trainings - 2:00-4:00 pm. Come learn more about oils, what they are, how to apply them and more. $15 per class. Heavenly Healings. Grand Rapids. Call Jodi or email to pre-register at 616-443-4225.

Classes for the Childbearing Year and Beyond - 6:00 pm. Every 3rd Thursday. Designed to edu-cate & support wholistic parenting & living from pregnancy through parenting and beyond. Advance registration required. Full Circle Midwifery. Hes-peria. 231-861-2535.

Spiritual Classes - 6:00-7:30 pm. Astrology, nu-merology, tarot, etc with Gail Brumeister. $15.00. The Healing Center. Lakeview. TheHealingCen-terOfLakeview.com. 989-352-6500.

Embracing Your Inner Divinity - 6:00-8:30 pm. Jan 5th & 19th. Start the New Year embracing your inner Divinity. This is a year long group that will start in January 2012 every other Thursday. $10/meeting. Awakened Women’s Support Group at Open Mind Store. Rockford. 616-754-9672.

Advanced Hatha Yoga with Mitch Coleman - 6:15-7:30 pm. Drop-ins welcome. Visit Whit-eRiverYoga.com for more information. Classes meet at White River Yoga Studio, 8724 Ferry St., Montague. 231-740-6662.

Oils Classes - 6:30-8:00 pm. Every 3rd Thurs-day with Barb Huttinga. The Healing Center. Lakeview. TheHealingCenterOfLakeview.com. 989-352-6500.

FridayYoga-Intermediate - 9:00 am. Learn the basics. Holding poses longer, moving deeper into your


practice and awareness of the core. For details visit SmilingLotusYoga.com or call Smiling Lotus Yoga, 103 E. Ludington Ave, Ludington. 231-852-0849.

Circuit Style Yoga - 12:00-5:00 pm. Designed to help students develop individual practice. All props provided and a certified instructor is present to assist if requested. Free. On the Path Yoga. Spring Lake. 616-935-7028.

Kripalu Yoga with Marro Spehar - 7:00 pm. Gentle/Moderate. Drop-ins welcome. For details visit sevayoga.net. Seva Yoga Studio, 2237 Wealthy St, East Grand Rapids. 616-458-2541.

SaturdayGentle Hatha Yoga with Mitch Coleman - 9:00-10:15 am & 10:30-11:45 am. Drop-ins welcome. Visit WhiteRiverYoga.com for info. Classes meet at White River Yoga Studio. Montague. 231-740-6662.

Sweetwater Local Foods Market - 9:00 am-1:00 pm. Every other Saturday. Indoors at Hackley Health at the Lakes, Harvey St. 1/2 Mile South of Lakes Mall. Exit US 31 at Pontaluna Rd., Mus-kegon.Focused Energy Academic Success - 9:30 am. Send kids to school prepared with fueled bodies & academic strength. Reliv Open Presentations Spring Hill Suites, 450 Center NW, Grand Rapids. Deb Riolo 616-822-4247. [email protected].

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AcuPuNcture

SAMIR RAJANI, MDMedical AcupuncturistSHMG Internal Medicine890 S. Washington, Suite 130, Holland 616-395-9000www.shmg.org

Medical acupuncture can be an effective treatment for many chronic conditions, including Pain, Fatigue, Depression and Anxiety. Samir Rajani, MD is certified in medical acupuncture and practices at SHMG Internal Medicine.

BodyworK

WHOLISTIC KINESIOLOGY HEALTH SERVICES, LLC Barbara Zvirzdinis, WK, CMT616-581-3885www.WKHealthServices.com

Certified Massage Therapist offering Therapeutic & LaStone Massage. Certified Wholistic Kinesiologist, Reconnection Healing Practitioner, Certified Herbalist, Certified Acutonics P r a c t i t i o n e r , C e r t i f i e d Reflexologist, and a Certified Matrix Energetics Practitioner. See ad page 21.

cHiroPrActic cAre

DYNAMIC FAMILY CHIROPRACTICDr. Ronson Dykstra & Dr. Ronda VanderWall4072 Chicago Drive, Grandville616-531-6050

Family owned and operated in the heart of downtown Grandville, Dynamic Family Chiropractic focuses on lifestyle improvements through living a maximized life. A safe and natural approach to health through the combination of exercise, nutrition, detoxification and chiropractic care.

thenaturaldirectory

SCHAFER CHIROPRACTIC AND HEALING SPADr. Andrew Schafer 1801 Breton SE Grand Rapids, MI 49506 616-301-3000

Tr e a t i n g m u s c u l o s k e l e t a l conditions, and specializing in back pain, sciatica neck pain, and headaches. Also offering physical therapy, massage therapy, and pos tu ra l awareness . Mos t insurances accepted. Breton Village area. www.grchirospa.com. See ad page 8.

cleANiNG Products

NATURAL HEALTH 4 TODAYClara VanderZouwen616-698-6148www.NaturalHealth4Today.com

Imagine cleaning with only water! Improve the quality of your life with Norwex products by radically reducing the use of chemicals in personal care and cleaning. New to Michigan!

coloN HydrotHerAPy

HARMONY ’N HEALTH Mary De Lange, CCT., CMT.1003 Maryland Av., N.E.Grand Rapids616-456-5033www.harmonynhealth.net

Certified therapist since 1991 offering colon therapy in a sterile and professional environment. Using a hol is t ic approach colonics relieve constipation, d ia r rhea , gas , b loa t , poor digestion, back pain, body odor and more. See ad page 6.

TRICIA E. GOSLING Natural Health & Healing Center723 Kenmoor SE Grand Rapids 49546616-481-9074

Offering an advanced client-centered dimension of colonics: gentle , safe and effect ive. Eliminate toxins and enhance well-being. 15 years of experience. A l s o o f f e r i n g Q u a n t u m Biofeedback sessions. I-ACT certified Instructor. Visit www.holisticenergytherapies.net

...connecting you to the leaders in natural health and green living in West Michi-gan. To find out how you can be included in The Natural Directory log-on to www.NaturalWestMichigan.com/advertising.

deNtistry / Holistic

DENTAL HEALTH& WELLNESS CENTERDr. Kevin P. Flood DDS616-974-4990www.FloodTheDentist.com

Comprehensive Holistic Dental Services – Amalgam Removal & Replacement. Bio-Compatible, metal-free materials, Low-Dose Digital X-Rays, Gentle Anesthesia, Dentistry for Diabetes, TMJ, Chronic Head & Neck pain and Non Surgical Perio. See ad page 48.

eNerGy HeAliNG

AMA~DEUS®Beth Cosmos Grand Rapids: 616-648-3354 www.ama-deus-international.com

Ama Deus® healing energy method is a hand mediated technique aligned with love. The energy helps to enhance one’s own and others growth and awareness or physical and emotional healing. See ad page 27.

MATRIX ENERGETICS Barbara Zvirzdinis, WK, CMT616-581-3885www.WKHealthServices.com

Matrix Energetics is a system used to heal, transform and create new possibilities in your life. Using principles of quantum physics and subtle energy Matrix Energetics helps you to shift into a more balanced state. See ad page 21.

esseNtiAl oils

BE YOUNG ESSENTIAL OILSClara Vander Zouwen 616-698-6148www.NaturalHealth4Today.com

Learn how to address issues of Pain, Stress, Hormone Imbalance, Weight Management, ADD, Allergies, Diabetes & more with Essential Oils, Ionic Foot Baths, Bio-Energy scans, Nutritional & NEW Earthing products! Free monthly classes.

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HEAVENLY HEALINGSHOLISTIC HEALTH SERVICESJodi Jenks - Reiki Master4434 Knapp St NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49525www.heavenlyhealings.org

I am a Reiki Master that also does Essential Oil therapies including Raindrop Therapy, Emotional Clearing and Spiritual Journey work . Ca l l o r emai l fo r appointments or questions, 616-443-4225 or [email protected]. See ad page 25.

HAir color

AMY WORSTOrganic Hair Color Specialist Aesthetica Image Group616-916-1190

Feel good about looking beautiful! Hair services of all kinds for all types. Providing superior results with Organic Color. 8 yrs . experience. Appointment recommended. www.aestheticaig.com/organic.

HeAltH eductioN ceNter

THE WELLNESS FORUM830 Forest Hill AveGrand Rapids, MI 49546616-942-7907www.WellnessForum.com

Educational programs for personal health improvement - Workplace wellness programs - Wellness Forum Foundation focused on school nutrition and children’s health - National conferences.

HeAltH food stores

AFFORDABLE NUTRITIONJoel D. Manning, CNC®, Owner7493 Cottonwood Drive, Jenison616-667-1346

Affordable, natural approach to b e t t e r h e a l t h . C e r t i f i e d nutritional consultant. 20 years experience. Offering select high quality vitamins and nutritional supplements. Weight loss, cleansing, sports nutrition & more! Senior & Everyday

discounts. Visit www.Affordable-Nutrition.com.

HEALTH HUTT Grand Haven 616-846-3026Muskegon 231-739-1568North Muskegon 231-744-0852www.HealthHutt.net

Natural & organic foods, vitamins & herbs, sports nutrition, g lu t en f r ee food ,

natural body and homecare products. Open 7 days a week. See ad page 21.

Holistic HeAltH ceNters

THE HEALING CENTER352 S. Lincoln Ave, Lakeview989-352-6500www.TheHealingCenterOfLakeview.com

Naturopa th ic / Hol i s t i c Prac t i t ioners . Phys ic ian assistant, Certified Natural Health Professionals. Private consultations. Counseling & C l a s s e s . B l o o d t y p i n g , acupressure, emotional release, i r i d o l o g y, h o m e o p a t h y,

massage therapy, reflexology, cranial sacral, foot detox & more. See ad page 26.

HomeoPAtHy

BOB HUTTINGA352 S. Lincoln Ave, Lakeview989-352-6500www.TheHealingCenterOfLakeview.com

A Physician assistant since 1 9 7 6 , s p e c i a l i z i n g i n naturopathic and homeopathic care and ApoE Gene Diet. Also, certified Silva Method instructor. See ad page 26.

iNterior desiGN services

STANDALE INTERIORS4046 Lake Michigan Dr. NWGrand Rapids, MI 49534616-453-8201www.standaleinteriors.com

Offering environmentally friendly options for cabinetry, flooring, countertops and window t r e a t m e n t s . T h e H o m e c o m i n g

Collection from Kincaid with the Eco3Home designation offers furniture manufactured in an environmentally responsible process. See ad page 7.

KiNesioloGy

WHOLISTIC KINESIOLOGYHEALTH SERVICES, LLCBarbara Zvirzdinis, WK, CMT616-581-3885www.WKHealthServices.com

C e r t i f i e d W h o l i s t i c Kinesiologis t , Cert i f ied M a s s a g e T h e r a p i s t , R e c o n n e c t i o n H e a l i n g P r a c t i t i o n e r, C e r t i f i e d Herbalist, Certified Acutonics P r a c t i t i o n e r, C e r t i f i e d Reflexologist, and a Certified Matrix Energetics Practitioner.

Specializing in muscle testing, massage, energy medicine, nutritional counseling, lectures and classes. See ad page 21.

mAssAGe tHerAPy

DYNAMIC FAMILY CHIROPRACTIC& MASSAGE THERAPYErin Kieffer, MT4072 Chicago Drive, Grandville, MI 49418616-531-6050

I offer Swedish massage w i t h I n t e g r a t e d Te c h n i q u e s , c h o s e n specifically to your unique body. Relieve those tired and sore muscles and rejuvenate! Call for on-

going monthly specials and discounts. www.DynamicChiro.com

SCHAFER CHIROPRACTICAND HEALING SPASheri Beth Schafer, CMT, Reiki Master1801 Breton SE Grand Rapids, MI 49506616-301-3000

We have multiple certified massage therapists offering relaxation, prenatal, deep tissue massage, and medical massage. We also offer Reiki, chak ra ba l anc ing , and Ayurvedic bodywork. Breton Village area. www.grchirospa.com. See ad page 8 & 32.

midwifery

BIRTH SONGMIDWIFERY SERVICESYolanda Visser CM, CPMGrand Rapids: 616-458-8144www.BirthSongGR.com

Homebirth services s i n c e 1 9 8 2 . C o m m i t t e d t o facilitating natural b i r t h , b o n d i n g ,

strengthening the family, informed active participation, and lending dignity to women through their birthing experience.

FULL CIRCLE MIDWIFERYSERVICE, INC.Patrice Bobier CM, CPMHesperia: 231-861-2234 www.FullCircleMidwifery.com

In private practice since 1982 - specializing in homebirth. Over 1200 b i r ths a t t ended . Offering midwifery care that maintains a

family-centered safe birth experience. Empowering women to stay healthy during pregnancy, give birth naturally and parent in the best ways.


quANtum BiofeedBAcKTRICIA E. GOSLINGNatural Health & Healing Center723 Kenmoor SE Grand Rapids 49546616-481-9074

This highly complex device is a non-invasive technology that energetically scans & harmonizes the body’s stresses and imbalances, reducing those imbalances that make us uncomfortable. Visit www.holisticenergytherapies.net

scHool / educAtioN

NATUROPATHIC INSTITUTE OF THERAPIES & EDUCATION503 E. Broadway St Mt. Pleasant, MI. 48858989-773-1714www.nite-mtp.comwww.leaven.org

Educational Programs: Natural Health 1-4 Years (one weekend per month), Holistic Labor Companion –Doula 6

months (1 weekend per month), Massage Therapy 1 Year (2 weekends per month), Individual Classes available. 15 years of excellence. See ad page 2.

classifiedsto place a classified listing: Email listing to [email protected]. Must be received by the 15th of the month prior to publication. $1.00 per word; must be pre-paid.

for reNt

Looking for Massage Therapists, Reflex-ologist, Acupuncturist, (etc.). Holland/Zeeland area. Contact Daphne at Lakeshore Natural Skin Care. (231) 557-3619.

Space for Rent in Cj’s Studio Salon, 5286 Plain-field, Grand Rapids. Chair rental $100/week full time. Call 616-364-9191.

for sAle

Currently Publishing Natural Awakenings Magazines – For sale in Birmingham, AL; North Central FL; Lexington, KY; Asheville, NC; Santa Fe/Albuquerque, NM; Cincinnati, OH; Tulsa, OK; Bucks/Montgomery Counties, PA; Columbia, SC; Southwest VA. Call for details 239-530-1377.

Log Cabin Home - 2 Bedrooms, 1 Bath on Campau Kettle Lake in Caledonia. Plenty of stor-age in the new 4 Stall Garage. Asking $168,000. Located at 8810 66th Street SE in Caledonia. Call for details 616-292-6762.

White Cloud - 80 Acre Farm, 6 bedroom home, vinyl siding, insulated. Dairy barn, outbuildings, 4 stall garage on M-20. Rob Breen 231-652-1100.

oPPortuNities

Holistic & Green Business Owners Wanted for Health Network - NAN, the Natural Awakenings Network, is a green and healthy living network that will allow members to enjoy discounts on products & services focused on wellness, green/sustainable living and healthy lifestyles. If you are interested in becoming a provider (a business or organization that of-fers discounts to members) in this innovative network or want more details, contact Natural Awakenings at 616-656-9232 or [email protected]. Participating as a Provider is FREE for the 1st year.

Sales/Marketing Manager - Marketing of the NAN~Natural Awakenings Network Program. Full time position. Oversee all aspects of this business including, but not limited to, setting up providers, selling NAN memberships to individuals and companies and managing sales staff. Serving all of West Michigan area. Pay is set up on a generous full commission structure. If interested, please email resume to [email protected]


Documents

Natural Awakenings Magazine January 2012