Natural Awakenings November 2010

1natural awakenings November 2010

HEALTHY LIVING HEALTHY PLANET

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NOVEMBER 2010 | West Michigan Edition | www.NaturalWestMichigan.com

Special Edition

SIMPLE LIVINGLESS STUFF

MORE HAPPINESSHow to Regain Your

Authentic Self

THANKSGIVINGThree Festive

Meatless Entrées

RETHINKINGDIABETES

Natural Treatment Alternatives

2 West Michigan Edition NaturalWestMichigan.com


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contents

10 10 globalbriefs

13 healthbriefs

15 inspiration

18 fitbody

20 healthykids

22 greenliving

24 healingways

32 consciouseating

36 healingways

13

20

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.

15 THE GRATITUDE CAMPAIGN A Simple Gesture from the Heart Says it All by Scott Truitt

20 OVERCOME HOLIDAY MEDIA MADNESS The Best Things In Life Aren’t Things by Melinda Hemmelgarn

24 RETHINKING THE DIABETES DILEMMA Alternatives Expand Upon Conventional Therapies Diet and Exercise Play Key Roles by James Rouse

26 LESS STUFF, MORE HAPPINESS How To Transform The Modern Shopping Dilemma by Judith Fertig

32 ORGANIC FOODS Eat Green, Eat Clean by Sharon Pisacreta

34 START A NEW THANKSGIVING TRADITION Three Meatless Festive Entrée Options by Judith Fertig

36 RECLAIM VITALITY Enhancing Your Life Force by Catherine Guthrie

26

24

34

32


letterfrompublishers

This month’s theme of Simple Living reminds us that this is the perfect time

of year to focus on what’s important to us, and be thankful. One of our recent joys has been attending a Monday evening class called Voluntary Simplicity, through the Earth Institute of West Michigan. We gather with a group of like-minded individuals to explore many ways we can simplify our lives to make them better and easier. Although we feel that we already live a fairly simplified life, we’re aware that there is always room for improvement. The whole occasion is great fun. This time of year exhibits the craziness often inherent in contemporary life. Families run around frantically shopping and execut ing er rands ,

scrambling to buy gifts, supplies and decorations. We attend special events and drop everything for holiday visits with friends and loved ones. Before you catch your breath, the holidays have come and gone and you wonder, “Did I really get a chance to enjoy them?” This holiday season we wish you the best celebration ever as you take time to appreciate each and every moment of good and give thanks. We urge you to pause often from the usual rush. And we hope you find ways to keep your days simple, fun and meaningful. With Thanksgiving on the menu at Natural Awakenings, we would like to make the most of this opportunity to thank all those who help make this magazine possible. The cornucopia of talent includes: local writers Kim, Efrain, Kimberly, Julie and Sharon; our graphic designer Scott C.; the folks at our printer, Newsweb; editors Linda, Alison and Scott G.; Stacie for help with deliveries; and our man of all work, intern Scott G.. We are equally thankful for our family of 80 Natural Awakenings publishers in communities across the country for their ongoing expert support and advice. Special thanks go to our advertisers who make this publication possible, as well as our network of local business distribution sites, and the thousands of readers who support them and this magazine. We are grateful to each and every one of you for allowing us to do this job that we love. Thanksgiving is a time to give thanks for the many blessings in our lives. May you be well, be happy and be grateful!

Happy Thanksgiving,

Amy and Kyle Hass, Publishers

Subscriptions are availableby sending $30 (12 issues)

to the above address.

© 2010 by Natural Awakenings. All rights reserved. Although some parts of this publication may be repro-duced and reprinted, we require that prior permission be obtained in writing.

Natural Awakenings is a free publication distributed lo-cally 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 for 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.

Natural Awakenings is printed on 100% recycled newsprint with soy based ink.

PublishersKyle & Amy Hass

EditorsS. Alison Chabonais

Scott GillisLinda Sechrist

Design & ProductionInteractive Media Design

Scott Carvey

PrinterNewsweb

Natural Awakenings484 Sunmeadow Dr. SEGrand Rapids, MI 49508

Phone: 616-656-9232

[email protected]

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newsbriefs

Forks Over KnivesThe feature film Forks Over Knives examines

the profound claim that most, if not all, of the degenerative diseases that afflict us can be controlled, or even reversed, by rejecting our present menu of animal-based and processed foods. An advance screening is scheduled for Wednesday November 17th at 7:00pm at Grand Rapids Community College Applied Technology Center located at 151 Fountain

Street in Grand Rapids. Meet and Greet at 6:00pm with Dr. Pam Popper. This new feature film that explores the idea that most, if not all, degenerative diseases can be controlled or even reversed by eating the right diet. What if it’s true? What if food really is medicine? Suggested donation of $5, students free. 100% of proceeds benefit The Wellness Forum Foundation. Tickets are required. Join the Wellness Forum on November 16th at 6:00pm for a Free Cooking demonstration on delicious low fat, vegan meals with Chef Stroufe. Reservations are required for this demonstration. Space is limited; call to reserve your spot.

For more information visit the Wellness Forum, 830 Forest Hill Ave SE in Grand Rapids. 616-942-7907. See ad page 45

Shoe Bank Have some shoes that don’t fit right, or are you diligent in running and get new shoes every few hundred miles? If you have shoes with a little “life” left in them, EcoTrek has people that would love to inherit them from you. Accepting men and women’s shoes in all sizes. Help someone in need. Contact Cari Draft at 616-291-2851 or [email protected] to make your shoe donation. Be sure to check out Cari Draft “On Air” every month on the local radio station Talk ‘n Muskegon. Visit http://TalkMuskegon.com for more information.

EcoTrek Fitness, 616-291-2851 or [email protected]. See ad page 19

Joining ForcesOf the Vine, LLC, a holistic health business serving the

greater Grand Rapids area has recently joined with the GR Center for the Healing Arts, located at 3160-C, Breton Ave in Grand Rapids. Of the Vine is owned by Susan J. McFarland, a board certified medical massage therapist/manual therapist, C.M.M.T., a holistic health practitioner, H.H.P., a Reiki Master and a Coptic Ministerial Candidate. Of the Vine offers services in medical and relaxation massage, medical manual therapy, nutritional herbal, and lifestyle counseling and Reiki. Susan believes strongly in the body’s ability to heal itself through the use of mind, body and spirit techniques. She uses a gentle and empowering approach to wellness, where the client can learn how to listen and understand the mental, emotional, physical and spiritual clues often missed in today’s busy environment. Once learned and applied the client can journey on a path to wholeness. Of the Vine, believes in nourishing yourself in order to nourish others.

Contact Susan at www.ofthevineholistichealth.com for more details. See ad page 31

Second AnnualNatural Living DirectoryWe invite you to be a part of

Natural Awakenings 2nd Annual Natural Living Directory for West Michigan, coming March 2011. Now in Full Color!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


Southwest Michigan’s only water birthing program.

SHORELINE WOMEN’S CENTER

WATER BIRTHING

Ask our midwives if Water Birth is for you!Contact: Shoreline Women’s Center

269.639.2720Monday through Friday

8:30 am - 5:00 pmEva Fronk, CNM Mercedes Moran, CNM

Joel D. Manning

educational 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, 2011.

Full Page Ads are also available.

Call Natural Awakenings at 616-656-9232 for details, ex-amples and to reserve your space in our Natural Living Directory. Deadline to register is February 17th.

Holiday Gift Card PromotionBurcon Chiropractic is pleased to

announce a New Gift Card promotion for the holidays. When you purchase Four 30 minute, 60 minute or 90 minutes massages, you get an additional one FREE. You can use it as a gift or to spoil yourself! The card itself is very attractive, showing the massage room over looking beautiful Lake Eastbrook. The package includes a complimentary DVD about the practice. In difficult cases, the doctor works with the therapist on your treatment plan, improving your outcome. All of the therapists are extensively trained with several years of experience. For your convenience, we are open until 7pm.

Please call 616-575-9990 or go to www.BurconChiropractic.com for more information. See ad pages 25 & 31

MMS is Now Midwest Massage IIOwner Yolanda Cordele received her certification approved

by Health Enrichment Center and is State Certified as well. Cordele’s personal relationship with nature immediately greets patrons entering the salon. The calm environment incorporates soft music, lighting and greenery. Stress and/

or physical discomfort melt away using the most effective techniques of massage, reflexology and other medically approved skills. Patrons bring an assortment of unhealthy habits and injuries that respond to alternative avenues. This is the path to healing the body, mind and perhaps most important, the spirit. A simple injury may lead to compromised muscles needing only a good massage. A major injury as experience by one patron that broke her neck, involves extended treatments to improve her range of motion, ease the tightness of entire fields of muscles relieving pain and promoting more normal activity. In general, work and day-to-day activities such as regular chores, taking care of children, managing family schedules and much more all cause stress and fatigue muscles. An experienced and qualified Massage Therapist can ease that discomfort and teach lifelong healthy habits.

For more information contact Yolanda at [email protected] or call 616-949-4000. Midwest Massage & Salon II is located at 6883 Cascade Rd in Grand Rapids. See ad page 31

Nutritional ConsultationsJoel D. Manning (Certified Nutritional

Consultant) from Affordable Nutrition located at 7493 Cottonwood Drive in Jenison has teamed up with Simply Massage located at 6575 Belding Rd in Rockford to spread the good word of health. Joel is available by appointment only on Tuesdays at Simply Massage for nutritional consultations. Call 616-667-1346 today.

Affordable Nutrition, 7493 Cottonwood Drive in Jenison. 616-667-1346. See ad page 45

Anusara Yoga™Immersion Program Join us at From the Heart Yoga Center for a Transformational

Journey into the Heart of Anusara Yoga™. The Immersion Program beginning November 5-7th, invites you to step


into the flow of grace and deepen your connection to the community by engaging and expanding your knowledge with fellow students.

This Immersion Program covers in detail all the basic elements of Anusara Yoga™. Through instruction and discussion they will dive deep into the practice of yoga. Over the course of the Immersion they will cover yoga philosophy, alignment and anatomy, as well as exploring pranayama and meditation on a deeper level. This program supports the deepening of your practice as a student without the need to become a teacher. It sets a firm foundation should you choose to move toward Teacher Training. Immersion is a pre-requisite for any Anusara Yoga™ Teacher Training Program. The Immersion Program will be followed by an Anusara Yoga™ Teacher Training program with 2011 dates to be announced. Visit fromtheheartyoga.com for pricing.

From The Heart Yoga, 714 Wealthy St in Grand Rapids. 616-336-9642. See ad page 16

New Wellness FacilityWest Michigan Spine and Wellness located at 5570 Wilson

Ave. in Grandville, takes a truly holistic approach to the body and natural health care, according to owner and chiropractor Michael Dubiel, D.C. “Our purpose is to help as many people as possible regain their health by addressing the true causes of disease, not just the symptoms, and to help them maintain their health,” says Dr. Michael. Chiropractic care is offered for all ages, infant to seniors. Instead of spending time in the waiting room, patients are guided through exercises, stretching and therapeutic modalities to improve the function of the Central Nervous System, relax tense muscles, and strengthen core areas, says Dr. Michael. Dr. Michael said he is the only chiropractor in West Michigan certified in the new “Neurological Release Technique” that offers

relief for patients suffering from Fibromyalgia, migraines, chronic pain and more. Dubiel holds a bachelor’s degree from Grand Valley State in biomedical health science and a second bachelor’s degree of life sciences and doctorate of chiropractic degree from Logan College of Chiropractic. He also holds advance certifications in Internal Health, Enzyme Nutrition, and Chiropractic Pediatrics.

For more information visit WestMichiganSpineWellness.com or call us at 616-530-9000 to schedule an appoint-ment. See ad page 31

Right to Life AnnualBenefit DinnerAnnual Benefit Dinner will be held on November 9th

at Prince of Peace Church, Fr. Schafer Hall located at 1110 Dykstra Rd in N. Muskegon. Doors open at 6pm with Dinner & Program to follow at 6:30pm. Speaker Eileen Smith became a crusader for the pro-life movement almost overnight when her 22 year old adopted daughter, Laura, died on the abortion table September 13, 2007. The moment Eileen heard of her death, she prayed that the Lord would bring something good out of it so she could bear it. Eileen has said the rest of her life will be spent for LIFE as she tirelessly travels with her message. “Every time I speak, I believe I put another nail in the coffin of the abortion industry.” Eileen has been featured on many national media interviews including Janet Parshall’s America, Facing Life TV, Concerned Women of America, Fox News and many more.

For more information or to reserve a table email [email protected] or call 231-733-6300.


Diets Don’t WorkWhen we diet, our metabolism slows down and the

body goes into something called starvation mode. Simply stated- dieting causes our DNA to respond as an alarm in our body. A drastic reduction of food intake sends a message to lower the metabolism and store food as fat. Food reduction can lead to a dramatic 30% drop in calories burned. The body then cranks out an enzyme (LLP) that increases the conversion of food to fat. Bottom line, when dieters resume normal eating, they are primed to gain an enormous amount of weight. Obesity is the result of two fundamental alterations of environment and behavior. First is the availability of unlimited calories. Secondly, most Americans lack daily exercise. Exercise increases ones overall health. Metabolism is the key to weight loss. Anabolic metabolism must be restored if one wants to achieve true fitness and vitality. As muscle mass increases ones calorie burning potential increases. It’s easy to say, “Gain muscle and let the muscle burn the fat”, but for people in a catabolic state of life gaining muscle is difficult. One must first have to restore anabolic metabolism to improve metabolic efficiency. Renewal 2 Health is an organization committed to helping one reclaim their optimum weight and health. They have designed a flexible and effective system that brings together a specific combination of health products, education and specialized counselors based on your unique needs, lifestyle and weight goals.

Contact Cathy Whitener at Renewal 2 Health at [email protected].

Natural Awakenings Launches New Health NetworkNatural Awakenings Publishing Corp., whose signature

Natural Awakenings magazines support sustainable, healthy living, is launching an innovative, cost-saving, green and healthy living network. The new Natural Awakenings Network (NAN) will allow members to obtain membership cards that will provide discounts on products and services

focused on wellness; green and sustainable l iving; and natural, healthy lifestyles. NAN’s extensive network in 88 territories across the nation will encompass practitioners of alternative and complementary medicine, including chiropractic, naturopathy, acupuncture, body work and energy work, as well as health and fitness clubs, health food stores, yoga centers, bookstores, green and sustainable living products, spas, vegetarian/healthy restaurants, and much more. Members will enjoy discounts ranging from 5 to 50 percent on products and services offered through NAN providers and can choose individual or family programs. Additional benefits include an annual Natural Awakenings subscription, a newsletter, and access to NAN’s website and free customer service support. Company founder and CEO Sharon Bruckman says, “We rejoice that the wellness revolution is in full swing, propelled by the kind of people who read our magazines and website. Natural Awakenings Network is our next step in helping people map out alternate routes to healthier, happier, longer lives.”

For more information on how your West Michigan business can become a NAN provider, contact Natural Awakenings Magazine at [email protected] or call 616-656-9232. See ad page 17

Mind Body Soul Expo Join Chel Lea and Friends on November 12

from 11:00am – 4:00pm for a fun filled day with Massage’s from Fosburg Oasis, Book singing from Authors, Animal Communicator Tammy Tiffany, Healers, Local Artist’s Intuitive Healers and Readers, Handmade Jewelry, Soy Candles, and much more for your Christmas shopping. The expo will be held at the John C. Blanchard House located at 251 E. Main St. in Ionia. A Gallery Reading with Chel is scheduled on December 19th at 6:00pm. Tickets will be for sale at the Mind Body Soul Expo. All seats are reserved so get your tickets early. Chel will spend some time giving a message from the house and then


KUDOSCongrats to Naturopathic School of the Healing Arts students who have completed their first full year of a 3-year ND program, earning a Certificate for Natural Medicine Enrichment Program. Particularly to Vanessa Allen, who commuted monthly from the West Michigan area. Yay!

Naturopathic School of the Healing Arts in Ann Arbor. Contact [email protected] or 734-769-7794.

This Fall Session we are happy to welcome Heather Duffy as our new Gentle

and Hot Yoga certified instructor. She has been a yogi since 2003. Come and meet Ms. Duffy on Wednesday evenings as well as weekend rotation classes.

Armenta Studio. 955 Wealthy St SE in Grand Rapids. 616-235-9642. See ad page 16

it will be gallery style readings. Those who have others on the other side are sure to be pleased with the messages from Heaven during this holiday season. Come see who has a message for you!

For more information contact Chel Lea & Friends, 402 Main St, Ionia at 616-902-5042. See ad pages 6 & 30.

Expanding ServicesA Healing Touch Thera-

peutic Massage, LLC has moved and expanded ser-vices. Jamilah Tuuk recently completed CranioSacral Ther-apy for Pediatrics with the Upledger Institute. She now offers massage, CranioSacral Therapy, Raindrop Technique, Ionic Foot Baths and Juice+ Nutrition at her new office located at 940 Monroe Ave

NW in Grand Rapids.

Visit www.jamilah.massagetherapy.com and contact her at 616-340-0543 or [email protected].

Jamilah Tuuk

In three words I can sum up everything I’ve learned about life: it goes on. ~ Robert Frost

Thursday & Friday, November 4-5, 2010Aquinas College, Grand Rapids, Michigan

FACULTY: STEVE WILSON, PSYCHOLOGIST, CLL

Become a Certified Laughter Leader™ in a 2-Day Workshop: “How to Create Therapeutic Laughter and Laughter Clubs”

This workshop is brought to you by Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at Aquinas College and Saint Mary’s Health Care

Get the knowledge & skills to make people laugh through activities that reduce stress, lower blood pressure, alleviate pain and improve immune function. This life-changing workshop is open to everyone interested in bringing more laughter to life.

For more information and to register: 1-800-NOW-LAFF(1-800-669-5233)

www.WorldLaughterTour.comTuition for the 2-day workshop is $349 per person.

CEUs available for nurses, activity professionals and case managers.

LAUGH IT OUT!Enjoy the Healthful Benefits of Laughter

and Help Others Do The Same!


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

Sharing SiteBorrowing Beats BuyingShareSomeSugar.com is a new online community of people seeking to share or borrow items they occasionally need and would rather not buy, from lad-ders to carpet steamers and party chairs to kayaks. “There’s so much stuff we already own that’s sitting around in our garages collecting dust,” says founder Keara Schwartz. “It feels good to share.” She’s seen firsthand how trust and com-munity ties are strengthened by neigh-bors helping neighbors. For those wary of letting just any-one borrow, for example, their sewing machine or pressure washer, the website suggests how users can create sharing groups, based on Facebook friends or email addresses, to collaborate within their already established community. For others, getting to know new people can be part of the fun.Pocket Parks

Mini-Parks and Plazas Invite Passersby to Pause AwhileSpace for urban parks is increas-ingly popping up in unexpected, underused and under-appreci-ated places. Planters, public art and benches are transforming traffic lanes, parking lots, barren asphalt areas and street parking into parklets and plazas, offer-ing restful, green spaces. Such “shoehorn parks” also serve as inviting social spaces. The trend of such use of leftover space is sparking compelling discussion in Landscape Architecture. There, Peter Harnik, author of Urban Green and director of The Trust for Pub-lic Land’s Center for City Park Excellence, shows communities how to take another look at re-conceptualizing schoolyards, abandoned railroad tracks, community gardens, buried streams, rooftops and cemeteries. U.S. cities are on an upward trajectory within this trend, Harnik writes, whether they are in their first growth cycle or in the midst of a revival. Parks have played, and will continue to play, a significant role in supporting a city’s fortunes. The key to success, he says, is to return to considerations that were forgotten or ignored in the din of suburbanization and sprawl: human scale, walkability, ef-ficiency and respect for ecological principles.

Get iNvolved: November 15 is America recycles day Look for local events by zip code at AmericaRecyclesDay.org

Take a holiday from the holidays on November 26, the day after Thanks-

giving, an occasion that traditionally signals one of the biggest national shopping sprees of the year. Instead, celebrate Buy Nothing Day to turn away from mindless shopping and

tune into life.

Source: BuyNothingDay.org

globalbriefs

Economic BufferSurvey Equates Frugal Habits with Healthier LivesNinety-four percent of middle-class Americans who have adopted sensible spending habits in response to the economic slowdown say that their newfound frugal behaviors are making them healthier, according to an index published by First Command Financial Services. Families have cut expenses by cooking more at home (45 per-cent), buying less junk food (30 per-cent), walking or bicycling to work (13 percent) and reducing their alcohol purchases (10 percent). Survey partici-pants ranged in age from 25 to 70.


Home Sweet HomeBoomers Likely to Embrace Cohousing Trends

Cohousing is a growing phenomenon in both rural and urban areas, according to Cohousing.org. Its online directory lists some 237 U.S. communities on 4,600 acres in 36 states. Most include 20 to 40 households and a common house with a kitchen and dining room, where community members serve op-tional group meals a few times a week. Other com-mon areas include lounge and recreational facilities for adults and children, and frequently a workshop, plus laundry and even a guest room. Craig Ragland, director of the Cohousing Associa-

tion of the United States, says that most of the approximately 120 cohousing com-munities that the association knows of, with another 80 to 100 under development, are multi-generational. Several others are built or retrofitted for seniors. According to The New York Times, enthusiasts predict another wave of building once the housing market stabilizes, because the baby boomers are coming. As one cohousing resident remarks, “The baby boomers are used to figur-ing out their own solutions. We think they’ll like the idea of coming together and designing their own communities.” The time to get a head start on participating is during one’s 50s or 60s.

Web-Wise GivingSavvy Computer Use is Revolutionizing PhilanthropyA sibling brainstorm by Ken and JJ Ramberg is paying off in help-ing causes across the country. Their GoodShop.com now works with more than 1,500 leading online retailers to donate an average of 3 percent (or more) of the cost of every purchase to the customer’s chosen charity or school. Similarly, every general Yahoo-powered search on GoodSearch.com chips in about a penny. Can’t find a favorite charity in the lists posted on both websites? Apply to add it. “More than 100 new nonprofits and schools register daily,” says co-founder Ken Ramberg. “GoodSearch and GoodShop are helping make a difference in communities across the country. They are alleviating the strain in resources and making it possible for everyone, regardless of how much time or money they have, to give back.” Co-founder JJ Rambert notes that millions of people are us-ing the two websites to benefit more than 90,000 nonprofits and schools.

Gobbler RenaissanceWild Turkeys Bounce Back Across AmericaNative to only North America, the formerly abundant wild turkey (Meleagris gallopavo) graced the tables of early colo-nists and was Ben Franklin’s choice for our country’s national bird and symbol. Since then, habitat loss, industrial pollution and both legal and illegal hunting have decimated flocks. But the National Wild Turkey Federation (NWFT) reports that a public/private initiative launched in the last quarter of the 20th century is succeeding in restoring turkey populations. Some 7,000 turkeys have been relocated to more conducive habitats, and the program hopes that its birds will produce 25 births over five years for every adult released. As an example, in Connecticut, a program has already restored thousands of birds to a wild turkey population that was deemed extinct in the 1800s. “Now there are turkeys [in locations] where they haven’t been since before the settlement of Europeans,” concludes James Earl Kennamer, Ph.D., vice presi-dent of the NWTF conservation programs. “Within the last five years, their range has expanded to 46 percent of the United States.”


Helping you balance your mind, body and spirit.

SHORELINE CENTER FORINTEGRATIVE MEDICINE

Lori Dotson, M.D. • Berti Ferree-Young, R.N.

www.shch.org

Shoreline Center for Integrative Medicine950 S. Bailey AvenueSouth Haven, MI269.639.2833Monday through Wednesday and Friday 9:00 am – 5:00 pm

At Shoreline Center for Integrative Medicine, alternative therapies are used in conjunction with conventional medicine to achieve optimal health

and healing. Our patient centered care is personally tailored for you to achieve your maximum health and wellness. We also offer laser hair removal, laser vein

reduction and skin care services with a full line of La-Roche Posay products.

Overfished OceansUrgent Need for Sustainable Seafood Buying Practices

According to Greenpeace.org, at least 75 percent of the world’s fish stocks are now considered fully or over-exploited or depleted as a result of a sevenfold increase in fish harvesting between 1950 and 2005. The organization’s Inter-national Seafood Red List continues to spotlight the 22 species most at risk, and MontereyBayAquarium.org provides free regional consumer guides to approved

fish caught and farmed using sustainable practices. Fortunately, many food retailers are now developing policies to ensure that they are sourcing seafood responsibly, according to the Gulf of Maine Research Institute. Thus, pressure is building on the seafood industry to adopt the management practices of the more sustainable fisheries. Evolving rules are intended to preserve supplies, maintain the health of the catch and reduce environmental impacts. The Belgian Delhaize Group is among those leading the way, by demanding comprehensive accountability from its 280 seafood product suppliers; they must prove the status of sustainable practices for some 4,500 fresh, frozen and pack-aged products starting in 2011. The move involves 1,600 stores in its Hannaford, Food Lion and Sweetbay chains. “Sustainable seafood is a hot-button item with about 15 percent of shoppers now, but growing steadily,” observes George Parmenter, Delhaize manager of cor-porate responsibility.

First AmericansSmithsonian Shows Gratitude for America’s Native HeritageThrough its museum without walls programming, Smithsonian.com is observing November as Native American Heritage Month with a significant new onsite exhibition, supported by online explorations of native art, languages and culture. Vantage Point: The Contemporary Native Art Collection runs through Au-gust 7, 2011, at the National Museum of the Ameri-can Indian in Washington, D.C. Native art markets also are planned for December 4-5 in our nation’s capital and New York. Works by 25 established and emerging artists from the United States, Canada and Colombia will be showcased. This forum for native expression includes paintings, drawings, photographs, sculptures, videos and mixed-media installations. “Many people are still surprised to find Native American artists working in con-temporary media and addressing very contemporary issues,” says Kevin Gover (Paw-nee), director of the museum. “These artists challenge notions of Native American art and confront people’s perspectives on history, culture and current events.”

Find more information at SmithsonianMag.com/people-places/american-indian-heritage.html#ixzz0zA7JdfD4; AmericanIndian.si.edu; WisdomOfTheElders.org and NativeAmericanHeritageMonth.gov.

Do not dwell in the past, do not dream of the future, concentrate

the mind on the present moment.

~ Buddha


10 Natural Tips to Keep Colds and Flu at BayExperts agree that a generally healthful

lifestyle, including following a nutritious diet, works to ward off sniffles, stuffy noses and the aches of a cold, and may even help safeguard against influenza. But it’s best not to wait for the first symptoms of a cold or flu to manifest; instead, we can take ongo-ing preventive action by strengthening our immune system. Applying these 10 tips will naturally help keep away such bugs:

Wash hands. The best way to get rid of everyday germs is to wash hands frequently and thoroughly. Plain soap is best.

Get enough rest. Sleep plays a crucial role in the body’s recovery and repair cycle; when people don’t get enough sleep, they compromise their defense systems.

Think clean. Clean surfaces frequently shared with others, such as stair rails, telephones, computer keyboards, countertops and door knobs, in order to avoid hand-to-hand spreading of viruses.

Freshen the air. Germs hang around in stagnant air. Make it a habit to open the windows for a few minutes several times a day to allow fresh air to circulate.

Think food first, rather than supplements. Eating healthy and naturally provides a whole nutritional package, comprising a combination of nutrients. Relying on supplements entails ingesting isolated vitamins and minerals that may pass through the body unabsorbed.

Use garlic when cooking. Garlic has antibacterial properties and helps detoxify the body.

Drink herbal teas. Teas containing Echinacea, astragalus and licorice root boost the immune system and help inhibit viral and bacterial growth.

Drink plenty of fluids. Even when it’s cold outside, it’s important to stay hydrat-ed. Avoid alcohol and sugary drinks, which inhibit immune function.

No hands touching the face. Most cold and flu viruses enter the body through the eyes, nose or mouth.

Exercise with gusto. Aerobic exercise speeds up the heart and makes us breathe faster, supplying the body with more oxygen, which in turn, helps increase the body’s number of natural virus-killing cells.

Sources: Nutrition.About.com; HolisticOnline.com; WebMD.com

healthbriefs

For more information about advertising and how

you can participate, call

616-656-9232

Natural Awakenings

brings you

insights for

enlightened living

in our special

holiday edition.

AWAKENINGCONSCIOUSNESS

Coming inDecember

If you frequent restaurants that use

chopsticks consider bringing your

own reusable ones.

Tip of The Month


Go Easy on thE MEatMeat has traditionally had a

proud place at holiday tables, but recent research from the Uni-versity of Texas cautions that people who eat meat frequently, especially red meat that is cooked medium or well-done, may run a higher risk of developing bladder cancer. Cooking meat at high temperatures generates cancer-causing chemicals called heterocyclic amines. The UK Food Standards Agency suggests that people can reduce their risk by cook-ing at lower temperatures for a longer period of time and keeping flames from touching food when barbecuing or grilling.

Banning Trans Fats

Saves LivesUnlike other dietary fats, trans fats are

not natural, and therefore have no role in terms of nutrition. Rather, they are partially hydrogenated oils created by manufacturers and can harm health by lowering levels of HDL (good) choles-terol, while raising those of LDL (bad) cholesterol. They are known to play a role in increasing the risk for coronary heart disease and some chronic illnesses. According to the University of Min-nesota School of Public Health, five ma-jor fast food chains have now significantly decreased the use of oils containing trans fats to cook their food, responding to health concerns from the public. But, is it enough? A recent report published in the British Medical Journal states that banning trans fats from all foods in the UK would prevent thousands of heart attacks and deaths every year, stressing that it would be a simple way to protect consumers from chronic disease. While the amount of trans fats must be clearly stated in labels on packaged food items in the United States, restau-rants are not mandated to disclose it. Given the frequency with which Ameri-cans eat out, trans fats should be of constant concern. Good steps to take include care-fully choosing places to dine out and making it a special occasion, rather than a regular occurrence. Read labels on groceries and lobby government representatives to ban the use of trans fats from all foods; these are, after all, classified as toxic by the World Health Organization.

It Pays to bE oPtIMIstIc

While several studies have shown that

optimists generally enjoy better health, a recent University of Kentucky study of students sug-

gests that a change in perspective from negative to more

positive can directly boost

the im-mune sys-tem. Their

conclu-sion, published

in Psychological Science: Optimism has emotional and physical health benefits.


The Gratitude CampaignA Simple Gesture from the Heart Says it All

by Scott Truitt

inspiration

Shortly after 9/11, I began a practice of approach-ing military personnel

whenever I see them in public to thank them for serving for us. Most times, it has been a wonderful experience for both of us. Occasionally, however, it has felt a bit awkward, for reasons that are not always ap-parent in the moment. Other times, I couldn’t muster up the nerve to approach them at all. What has been consistent is that every time I’ve done it, they seem very apprecia-tive of the gesture, and I have always felt better for having expressed my gratitude. It can be difficult for some people to approach strangers this way, because many of us have been socialized since childhood not to talk to people we don’t know, much less open our hearts to thank them for defending our very freedom to be whoever we want to be. My occasional reluctance and awk-wardness in these situations made me think that it would be nice if we civilians had a gesture or sign, similar to a mili-tary salute, that we could use to express our gratitude quickly and easily, without having to even approach a stranger. I did some research and found a sign that originated in 18th-century France. The Sign, which some are now calling The Gratitude Sign, begins by placing your hand over your heart, and then bring-ing your hand down and out in front of you, bending your arm at the elbow (not the wrist), and ending with your hand at about your belly button, slightly fac-ing the person you wish to thank. Fully translated, it means, “Thank you, from the bottom of my heart.”

My next challenge was how to spread the message. I called a client, the National Football League’s Seattle Seahawks, and told them I wanted to share this sign with people as a means of expressing their gratitude when circumstances might not allow for a verbal thank-you. The Seahawks sug-gested that I make a short video they could air during their games. So, I part-nered with Amy Sedgwick of Mouse House Productions, in Seattle, to create the videos at GratitudeCampaign.org. Since our video first aired in 2007, an estimated 30 to 40 million people have seen it, and many are now using The Sign throughout the world. I’m often asked if The Sign is limited to honoring military personnel. Not at all. Look around, and I’m sure that you’ll find lots of people who are serving our communities, from local to global. If you appreciate their service, give them The Sign. Say, “Thank you, from the bottom of my heart.”

Scott Truitt is the founder of Gratitude Campaign.org.

Photo courtesy of Carrie Robinson


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Located in a former art gallery in Uptown, founder Carolyn Heines says that The Yoga Studio presents a deep and

classical approach to Hatha yoga. A student of yoga for 35 years and a teacher for 33 of those, Carolyn says that she “teaches yoga with a lot of attentiveness.” “We pay attention to alignment and give individualized instruction so that each student can have the best experience in the pose,” said Carolyn. While in her 40s, Carolyn first became interested in the spiritual aspect of yoga before the physical practice of it became the cornerstone of her later-in-life career. “A spiritual teacher encouraged me to study Hatha yoga, which really wasn’t anything I would have done otherwise. I was not at all inclined to move my body unnecessarily,” Carolyn laughs. She decided to attend Iyengar Yoga Institute of San Francisco, where she studied for three months in 1978. “I had no background when I went and I was studying with these very advanced people. It was kind of a shock for my body,” she said. “After the course, I felt stronger and really energized. It was the best thing I ever did for myself.” After returning to Grand Rapids, she began teaching yoga to friends and people she knew. Knowing that yoga was going to be a lifelong pursuit, she returned to the school in 1979 and took another three-month course to hone her skills. Thirty years later, Carolyn and The Yoga Studio teach more than 200 students each week. “Our instructors are well-trained and just great teachers,” says Carolyn about fellow instructors Chris Smith, Kat McKinney, Deb Weiss-Gelmi and Sarah Weber. Currently teaching five classes a week, Carolyn says that she used to teach upwards of ten to 12 classes a week. “I will continue to teach as long as I am able. As for retirement, I have no immediate plans to retire, but intend to back off some in the coming years. I always said that when I can’t stand on my hands anymore, I wouldn’t teach,” she joked. A long-time resident of Grand Rapids, Carolyn expressed gratitude to the community for supporting her all throughout the years. “I can’t imagine anything else I’d rather do,” she said. “Yoga

can enhance our lives in so many different ways - physical, mental, emotional and spiritual - and anything I can do to expose people to its many benefits is so rewarding. Doing something I love and to be able to share it with these fabulous folks is a real blessing.” The Yoga Studio, 955 Cherry St., Grand Rapids. 616- 776-0836. [email protected]. See ad page 16.

A married mother of two young children, Julie Hurley is a freelance writer with a strong interest in natural living and is the co-founder of M2 Quality Solutions: m2qualitysolutions.blogspot.com. Visit her blog at: ourlunch.blogspot.com.

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The mythical Riddle of the Sphinx asks, “What is it that walks on four legs in the morning, two at midday and three in the evening?” The answer is man, who starts out

crawling, then walks upright, and finally needs the assistance of a cane. Specialized sticks and poles have also evolved over the ages for use in pursuit of recreational fitness. Whatever the technology, the primary function of any type of pole is to retain or regain one’s balance. Whether schussing a frozen ski slope or making the ascent of a rocky hillside easier, that extra leg can serve as a pivotal acces-sory. The instrument itself can even be turned directly to the purpose of fitness, when it is used in Nordic pole walking.

Extreme VersatilityJust the names of Henry David Thoreau or John Muir evoke the romantic image of a nature lover wandering the virgin landscape, hiking staff in hand. This is a goal that we can all still achieve, given suitable surroundings. From a fallow tree limb to a finely machined, telescoping rod, hundreds of models are available to aid in tackling mountain, forest or

stream, including those that sport attached seats or fold up for backpacking. Some aficionados even collect them. Besides saving us from a spill into a babbling brook, poles come in handy for testing the depth of water, knock-ing down spider webs, parting bushes and fending off wild animals. They can also be used to dislodge a piece of ripe fruit from its branch. From day to day, using a pair of trekking poles saves strain on the knees, especially during descents, according to the American Hiking Society. In skiing, other key considerations come into play. Jen Butson, director of public affairs at Ski Vermont (SkiVermont.com), explains: “Poles are used to enable the skier to gain more speed, as well as improve balance. Alpine ski poles help with improving the timing of the more advanced ski turns in steeper terrain, or in moguls, serving as an extended platform for better balance.” Regarding another popular winter pastime, hiking in showshoes, Butson elaborates on the similar, yet distinctive benefits. “When snowshoeing, poles also provide stability and balance in varied terrain, deeper snow conditions and during side-slope traverses. Poles further serve to engage the upper body of the fitness-minded snowshoer, offering a total body workout and incremental caloric expenditure.”

New Nordic WorkoutA unique regimen called Nordic pole walking was brought to the United States in 2004, via Naples, Florida. Klaus Schwan-beck, Ph.D., a German track coach, has devised a way to adapt ski-like movements to provide a low impact, aerobic routine. Naples Community Hospital (NCH) was the first to train instructors under Schwanbeck’s tutelage. NCH Group Fitness Coordinator Bobbie Lee Gruninger says, “The benefits are that you can burn a high ratio of body fat. You get the heart rate in the mid-range and it stays in the mid-range the entire time, because of the speed and distance that you’re walking. We do about seven miles out on the beach.” Any climate will do, as long the attire is appropriate. Don’t just buy the lightweight, adjustable poles and have at it, though. As Gruninger advises, “It’s important to be trained properly to do Nordic pole walking, because a lot of people just dig the pole in and take big steps, and they don’t get the rotation in their upper body. It’s not really much like skiing.” (Video lesson at PoleWalkingUSA.com).

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Rather, specific technique is required. Gruninger points out, “With Nordic pole walking, the poles have to be adjusted so that when you put the pole on the ground, you want your elbow right at your waist and your wrist will be slightly lower than that. If you’re doing it correctly, your shoulders are actually slightly rotating side-to-side, which engages the outer obliques in the core.” In addition to facilitating an ab-dominal workout, results include an overall toning effect on the entire body. Gruninger notes that pole walking provides an acceptable, low-impact cardiovascular routine for people re-covering from injury, as well. Whatever the season or reason, there is a pole designed to help sport-sters remain upright. Adventure, excite-ment and athletics are all on tap as we take care to use this versatile extra appendage gently and wisely.

Martin Miron is a freelance writer in Naples, FL. Contact him at [email protected].


OVERCOME HOLIDAY mediA mAdNessTHE BEST THINGS IN LIFE AREN’T THINGS

by Melinda Hemmelgarn

healthykids

If your children watch commercial television, go to the movies, play video games or spend leisure time

on the computer surfing the Internet or chatting and texting with friends, they already know exactly what they must have to be happy this holiday season. That’s because ads aimed at kids are everywhere, enticing them to desire toys, branded cloth-ing, foods and other products they don’t really need and their parents might not be able to afford. Nor will these things they want so desperately make them happy.

Family Media DietsHow much is too much of a good thing? According to The Henry J. Kaiser Family Founda-tion’s study of media in the lives of 8- to 18-year-olds, young people today consume more media than ever before—about 7½ hours a day, often multitasking or using media simultane-ously. At the same time, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends no more than two hours of screen media use per day for children over 2 and none for younger children—with good reason. While exposure to media in moderation can be educational and entertaining, the Center on Media and Child Health links excessive media consumption with poor diet, poor body image, obesity, earlier sexual activity, smoking, violence, disturbed sleep and increased anxiety.

Psychologist Susan Linn, director and co-founder of the Boston-based Campaign for a Commercial-Free Childhood (CCFC), explains that exposure to media and marketing also promotes materialistic values in children and is stressful for fami-lies. CCFC conference reports on relevant research show that conflict between parents and children is often directly related to children’s exposure to advertising. Juliet Schor, author of Born to Buy: The Commercialized Child and the New Consumer Culture, says, “[Even] psychologically healthy children will be made worse off if they become more enmeshed in the culture of getting and spending.” Likewise, Tim Kasser, author of

The High Price of Materialism and psychology professor at Knox College, in Galesburg, Illinois, reports that countries with the highest levels of kid-targeted marketing have the least happy kids.

Secrets of Family HappinessIt turns out that what kids really value, but may not express, is quality time with their family. Our sense of well-being depends less on stuff and more on relationships, a sense of belonging, community and spiritual nourishment, accord-ing to research led by Kasser and colleague Kennon M.

Iowa State University research

suggests that viewing TV or

video games more than two

hours a day can make a youth

1.5 to 2 times more likely to

experience attention problems.

During the 13-month study,

elementary- and college-age

participants averaged 4.26

hours of screen time a day.


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Sheldon, a psychology professor at the University of Missouri-Columbia. Granted, time isn’t easily packaged and placed under a tree. Instead, parents can pull the plug, or at least set time lim-its, watch and talk about media content together, agree to buy less stuff and schedule more meaningful free time together. Here are some ideas to create happy holiday memories to last a lifetime:

Document family history. Turn kids into roving reporters and interview relatives to learn and record the family’s past. Start with a family tree, and then fill in fun details. Where did Great Grandpa come from? What did he eat for lunch at school and what was Grandma’s favorite holiday recipe when she was a child? What games did your grandparents play as kids?

Revisit the family’s culinary heritage. Make traditional dishes and take photographs of the finished masterpieces. Make a scrapbook with recipes, pictures and stories about the reci-pes to create a treasured family holiday cookbook.

Share skills. Elders may have talents they’d like to pass down to younger generations. Such activities include sewing, quilting, knitting, bread making (from scratch), woodwork-ing, painting, dancing, drawing, jewelry making and playing musical instruments.

Resist the pressure to put a TV in a child’s bedroom. It guar-antees that the youngster will spend more time with advertis-ers and less time with you or engaged in books, physical ac-tivity and creative play. TV also exposes children to cultural messages that may lie outside a family’s values. Talk to your children about those potential conflicts.

Discuss the use and impact of advertising. Explore how ads grab our attention through use of color, music and celebri-ties. Ask kids how an ad makes them feel, and show them how ads sell us “lifestyles.” See if you can spot branded prod-ucts in movies.

Declare a screen-free day or TV-free week. It may take some getting used to at first, but the rewards are many. You’ll discover you have extra time to be together as a family, play games, read and enjoy meaningful conversation.

Best of all, nourish each child’s spirit with a printed or even framed list of what you love about them, and why they’re the greatest gift of all. Then prove it, by showering them with your “presence.”

For more ideas and insights, visit NewDream.org/holiday/index.php, cmch.tv and CommercialFreeChildhood.org. Melinda Hemmelgarn is a Midwest-based registered dietitian and freelance journalist and the host of Food Sleuth Radio. She teaches media literacy workshops nationwide. Reach her at [email protected]. “Grow Your Food Business With Us!”

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Dan Rollman recently noticed a disturbing trend in his social in-teractions. “I was starting to get

more birthday wishes on my Facebook wall than phone calls and handwrit-ten cards.” This inspired him to create the Sabbath Manifesto, which encour-ages people to enjoy time outdoors, in silence, with loved ones and participat-ing in pleasures they re-member from a time before the advent of the Internet. It’s not just Rollman who feels this way. Across the country, Americans are starting to think about how a constant stream of electronic communications affects the quality of their lives—and many are consciously unplugging every once in a while. Recently, local businesses in San Francisco sponsored a Tech-Free Day, inviting people to visit an unplugged café or attend a potluck picnic. Aubrey Harmon, a self-described multitask-ing, “... stay-at-home mom who also writes,” turned off her TV, computer and smart phone and went to the picnic—which banned technology, but

encouraged attendees to sing along with a band that played an acoustic set in honor of the occasion. Harmon found that she felt “…more present at the picnic, not hiding behind a camera or phone,” and decided to continue making such breaks from technology.

“I realized that it’s good for my son to balance TV and technology with face-to-face and outdoor time.” Rollman offers 10 principles for observing

such a weekly day of rest. “I don’t want to push people to follow the Sabbath Manifesto in a letter of the law man-ner,” he says. “I just want to spark some dialogue about the pace of life and our societal relationship with technology.” SabbathManifesto.org receives hundreds of joyful testimonials from both religious and secular fans of the concept. Rollman sees no contradic-tion in promoting it on the Internet.“We aren’t trying to be anti-technology; we are just asking questions about how we use it and the amount we use it.” Sal Bednarz, owner of Actual Café, in Oakland, is thrilled that his facil-

TECH SABBATHA DAY OF REST FOSTERS WELLNESS

by Erika Kosina

greenlivingity’s laptop-free weekends are building an actual, not virtual, community. He recalls a neighborhood filmmaker who was working in his café during the week, but still mindful of the unplugged philosophy: “She made a point of tak-ing breaks and talking to people next to her,” he says. “She thanked me, because she made two new friends and five new business contacts.” Many people report that a day away from a screen lets them recon-nect with what really matters in their lives. Frank Bures, a Minneapolis-based travel writer who decided to make his Mondays Internet-free, remarks: “It goes back to Thoreau and living deliberately, instead of mindlessly. How do you want to spend your life? Staring at a screen and following link trails, or being in your own mind? Your attention is finite, and it is what defines your life.”

Erika Kosina wrote the original article, from which this is adapted, for YES! Magazine, a national, nonprofit media organization that fuses powerful ideas with practical actions. She is a freelance writer and community organizer who blogs about taking a break from tech-nology at TechFreeDay.org.

In this culture, it doesn’t take much to live radically.

The Sabbath Manifesto 10 Ways to Take a Day Off

1. Avoid technology 2. Connect with loved ones 3. Nurture your health 4. Get outside 5. Avoid commerce 6. Light candles 7. Drink wine 8. Eat bread 9. Find silence 10. Give back


Unplugging electronic devices and appliances can pay real dividends, both in reducing

the amount of energy we use—and our subsequent carbon footprint—and in lowering our utility bills. Meanwhile, in doing so, we have the pleasure of plug-ging back into real human interaction and communication with the natural world to recharge our peace and joy and true power. With each watt we deduct, we bring down the total energy consumed. All told, electronic devices and ap-pliances account on average for 20 percent of a household’s energy bills. (For the record: A watt is a unit of measurement for power. For example, a 100-watt light bulb consumes 100 watts of power per hour when turned on.) Standby power alone—the power flowing to the TV, DVD player, cell phone charger, laptop and other devices when they’re not in use—can account for as much as 5 to 10 percent of total home energy use. Employing a power strip is an easy way to complete-ly turn off all the assorted gadgets when they’re not in use.

Accountable Savings.Here’s what we can save each hour, every time we unplug the following electronics:

n Desktop computer CPU: 120 watts when awake, 30 watts asleepn Desktop computer monitor: 150 watts when awake, 30 watts asleepn Laptop: 50 wattsn Stereo: 70 to 400 wattsn TV: 19-inch = 65 to 110 watts; 27-inch = 113 watts; 36-inch = 133 watts; 53- to 61-inch projection = 170 wattsn Average plasma TV: 301 wattsn Average LCD (standard) TV: 111 watts

n Average LCD (LED): 101 watts (save energy by lowering the backlight)n DVD: 20 to 25 wattsn DirecTV HR20 DVR: 33 wattsn Microsoft Xbox 360: 119 to 187 watts (video game consoles consume nearly the same energy in idle mode as when being played)n Sony PlayStation 3: 150 wattsn Nintendo Wii: 19 wattsn Wireless router: 7 watts

We can start by eliminating the standby power drain, then work toward

big bucks energy savings by making it a habit to unplug

whatever electronics currently are not in use.

Brita Belli is the editor of E – The

Environmental Magazine.

Sources: EnergySavers.gov; nrdc.org; Reviews.

cnet.com; Standby.lbl.gov

Unplug Electronic VampiresSEE INSTANT SAVINGS ON ENERGY BILLS

by Brita Belli

Standby power, also called vampire power, vampire draw, phantom load or

leaking electricity, refers to the electric power

consumed by electronic appliances while they are

switched off or in a standby mode, and not unplugged.

Source: Wikipedia


According to the Centers for Disease Control, 23.6 million people in the United States, or

7.8 percent of the total population, have diabetes (5.7 million of these

undiagnosed), and it remains the sixth

leading cause of death in this

country. The good news is that there are natural treatment alternatives.

Background The lynchpin of diabetes is insulin, a key hormone that allows glucose (sugar) to be converted into energy. The onset of diabetes indicates that the body is experiencing a shortage of insu-lin and/or decreased ability to use it. Type 1 diabetes, which is caused by the inability of the pancreas to produce insulin, usually manifests in children and adults under 30. It ac-counts for only five percent of cases. Type 2 diabetes, in which the body fails to respond appropriately to the pres-ence of insulin and to properly absorb

glucose from the blood, accounts for 95 percent of incidences, gener-

ally occurring after age 40. If left untreated over

time, either type can lead to further health com-

plications, including diseases of the heart,

eyes and kidneys, plus blindness, nerve damage and kidney fail-ure. Today’s conventional medical treat-ment of Type

2 diabetes typically starts with lifestyle and dietary changes, including aerobic and resistance exercise and avoidance of excess carbohydrates, sweets and starches. If necessary, a glucose-lower-ing medication may be added. Complementary natural treatment of Type 2 diabetes also begins with a more nutritional diet and exercise plan, managed by a nutrition-savvy medical doctor, naturopath, certified nutritionist, holistic nurse practitioner or dietician. Maintaining a healthy weight and con-trolling blood sugar are essential.

A Natural PrescriptionFollowing a diet based on low glycemic carbohydrates, adequate protein and good fats is key. Examples of good carbs include: legumes and beans, whole wheat, bar-ley, brown rice, quinoa, apples, apri-cots, grapefruit, cherries, plums, pears and berries. High glycemic carbs to be avoided include (but are not limited to) donuts, white rice and white flour prod-ucts, cake, cookies and dried dates. Healthy proteins include lean chicken and turkey, wild salmon, grass-fed beef and buffalo, tofu, tempeh and eggs. Good sources of healthy fats are olive, flax seed and hemp seed oils. A high-fiber diet is also vital in improving blood sugar and insulin response, because low fiber diets have been associated with increased risk for diabetes. Foods to include are whole grains, nuts, seeds and dark green, leafy vegetables. Research from the University of Helsinki, Finland, further suggests that limiting cow’s milk may be beneficial, especially for infants and children. A study of children born to a diabetic parent found that they were susceptible to diabetes later in life after exposure to cow’s milk as youngsters.

healingways

RETHINKING THE DIABETES DILEMMAAlternatives Expand Upon Conventional TherapiesDiet and Exercise Play Key Roles

by James Rouse


Chromium may help lower blood glucose levels in cases of Type 2 diabe-tes, with the most recent study from the Pennington Biomedical Research Cen-ter. A typical dose is 200 micrograms daily. Magnesium is also important, as Harvard University scientists discovered a significant inverse association be-tween magnesium intake and diabetes risk. A large population-based study in Taiwan, published in Magnesium Re-search, showed that adding magnesium to drinking water led to a lower risk of death from Type 2 diabetes. The best sources of magnesium are amaranth, sunflower seeds, qui-noa, spinach, wild rice, tofu, almonds, halibut, brown rice, white beans and avocado. If these foods are not regu-larly on the menu, consider a magne-sium supplement. A typical daily dose begins with 500 to 750 milligrams (mg), although this may be reduced in the event of diarrhea or loose stools. Zinc also may assist the body’s use of insulin. Suggested dosage is 30 mg a day, balanced with 2 mg copper.

Diabetics may

benefit from

eating small meals

throughout the day,

to help maintain

blood sugar balance.

Antioxidant vitamins (A, C, E, beta-carotene) and B complex vitamins, as well as other antioxidant nutrients from superfoods such as green tea, blueber-ries and pomegranates, may help prevent diabetes-related nerve damage, accord-ing to research published in the Bratisla-va Medical Journal and Diabetes Care. In addition, studies of calcium and vitamin D have shown some initial promise in middle-aged and older women in warding off metabolic syndrome, a known diabetes precursor.

(Reports in Menopause, Current Drug Targets and Diabetes Care.) Finally, a host of scientific journals support the helpfulness of certain herbs. Bilberry and Gingko biloba may help prevent or delay diabetic-related eye damage. Gymnema sylvestre, fenugreek and bitter melon have been shown to help control blood sugar levels. Physical activity, which certainly helps reduce weight, may also help in regulating overall blood glucose. Exercise facilitates circulation, while working to prevent some of the com-plications associated with diabetes, in-cluding peripheral vascular and heart disease. It’s recommended that diabe-tes sufferers have a snack just prior to and immediately following exercising to help maintain stable blood sugar levels.

James Rouse is a naturopathic doctor, entrepreneur, Ironman triathlete and wellness media personality, best known on the West Coast for his Optimum Wellness TV segments. Learn more at OptimumWellness.com.


We wonder: Will the gifts we spend our time and money to buy re-ally make anyone happy—or the world a better place? What if we could reinvent shopping every day of the year? It turns out that it’s possible to simplify our shopping, while at the same time making it both mean-ingful and green, including purchasing gifts that will do the most good every time they are used. On our way to realizing this ideal solution, it helps to understand the ori-gins of the modern shopping dilemma. To begin, we must ask ourselves why we

LESS STUFF,

more HAPPiNess HOW TO TRANSFORM THE MODERN SHOPPING DILEMMA

by Judith Fertig

respond to marketers in ways that per-petuate mindless socioeconomic trends.

From Producer to ConsumerAmericans experienced a major para-digm shift in the early part of the 19th century with the advent of the Indus-trial Revolution. Basically, we changed from an agrarian economy, in which most people produced what they con-sumed, to a manufacturing and services economy, in which people are mostly just consumers.

According to the online Ency-clopedia of Earth, the present-day “worker as consumer” worldview was fully entrenched in the United States by the 1920s, when the labor move-ment stopped advocating a shorter workweek to instead focus on securing better wages and working conditions. The goal was to guarantee more buying power for workers, so that they could purchase more than just the necessities of daily living.

After World War II, this idea got a boost from economist Victor LeBeau, who in 1947 declared, “Our enormous-ly productive economy… demands that we make consumption our way of life, that we convert the buying and use of goods into rituals, that we seek our spiritual satisfaction, our ego satisfac-tion, in consumption. We need things consumed, burned up, replaced and discarded at an ever-accelerating rate.” It’s perhaps not coincidental that, “Our national happiness peaked in the 1950s,” as related by Annie Leonard in the compelling video The Story of Stuff, just as television began spreading the new philosophy of what Leonard calls

“we have more stuff, but

less time for the things that

make us happy.”

~ Annie LeonardAs winter holiday shopping inexorably nears its peak, the last weeks of the year are often the most frenetic. We’re bombarded with advertisements for gifts of all kinds, caught between doing good for the people we love and

thinking that surely there’s a better way than trudging around like beasts of burden, crossing hazardous parking lots and navigating crowded malls in search of a satis-fying end to the seasonal buying spree.


“work-watch-spend.” We work to make money, then come home and relax as we watch television. On TV, we see ads that let us know that we could do and be a lot better—if only we had the right product. So, we begin to feel less wor-thy, go shopping and buy that product that we hope will make us do/become/feel better, and the cycle repeats. Today, shopping has become firmly entrenched in the American lifestyle. It is used as an antidote to boredom, a substitute for socializing and a quick fix for a disguised emotional need. We continue doing it even when we’re aware that we are buying things we don’t need and can’t afford. The more aware among us also understand that all the stuff we buy and store, and cause to be manufactured and dis-tributed, creates a negative impact on people’s lives and the environment—which leads to even more stress.

Stuff versus the Right StuffAmong the reasons that it’s possible to make shopping different today is the dawning of conscious awareness about the impact a product has through its entire life-cycle, from raw resources through ending up in a landfill or recycled. Daniel Goleman, whose books ex-plore emotional and social intelligence, has tackled this topic in Ecological Intelligence: How Know-ing the Hidden Impacts of What We Buy Can Change Everything. “Ecological intel-ligence,” he explains, “lets us apply what we learn about how human activity impinges on ecosystems so as to do less harm and once again to live sustain-

ably in our niche—these days, the entire planet.” Goleman advocates that we take our role as consumers seriously in three ways: 1) Get the information and know the ecological impacts of the things we buy; 2) Favor the eco-friendly improve-ments that companies make to their products; and 3) Share that informa-tion. Widespread individual support for sustainable alternatives, says Goleman, “That’s what’s going to give it the mag-nitude that can actually shift market share.” On websites like GoodGuide.com and StoryOfStuff.com, we can check on the product life-cycle of everything from cosmetics and bottled water to the electronic gadgets we might be consid-ering as holiday gifts. It’s bound to be a balancing act, unless we elect to forego shopping altogether. For example, for an e-reader, Gole-man counsels, “You’d need to drive to a store 300 miles away to create the equivalent in toxic impacts on health of making one e-reader—but you might do that and more if you drive to the mall every time you buy a new book.” Goleman hopes that such infor-mation will lead us to make informed decisions by using our buying power

to show companies the direction they need to take to meet a grow-ing, enlightened demand. As we enthuse to our friends about how well the naturally scented soy candles on our holiday buffet table performed, they might also seek them out, and then tell others. Friends might want a fair trade tablecloth of their own when we gather around one at a dinner party and ex-plain how paying fair wages helps improve labor condi-tions and supports the local economy of the artisans’ village in India. Concludes Goleman, “As market share shifts, all of a sudden within com-panies, the grounds of the debate shifts, because now, doing the right thing is synonymous with cap-

turing market. Doing good is the same as doing well.”

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Cultivating Feel-Good Shopping SimplicityDuane Elgin, author of the landmark Voluntary Simplicity, observes, “Sim-plicity that is consciously chosen, deliberate and intentional, supports a higher quality of life. In reality, it is consumerism that offers lives of sacri-fice, whereas simplicity offers lives of opportunity.” Although every holiday celebra-tion requires some sort of shopping—even for the most voluntarily simple lifestyle—a new outlook can put our time and money where it does the most good for everyone—including us. In Less Is More, authors Cecile Andrews and Wanda Urbanska detail the types of simplicity thinking that can streamline our shopping and make us feel good, as we do good. Here’s a synopsis: UNCLUTTERED. Less stuff translates to a more peaceful, serene home environ-ment. Instead of buying a knickknack, why not get creative? Paying for an hour of a home-staging expert’s time to give a friend or family member’s abode a fresh look—using their own things—achieves the aim of effecting change without adding stuff.

CIVIC. Giving money to civic organi-zations helps the broader community and can simplify gift-giving. Comments Leah Ingram, author of Suddenly Frugal, “I recall my daughter’s long-ago first grade teacher telling us on back-to-school night that she didn’t need any presents at the holidays, and instead, would we please buy board games for the class. That was a specific request that I respected and answered. Had she said that [a specific charity] was her special cause, then I could have made a donation in her name in good conscience.”

FRUGAL. Spending less for things we really don’t need can result in more money saved for the really important things, such as a long-desired vacation that broadens our horizons and helps improve a developing nation. We can also experience the joy of providing unforgettable experiences that enrich loved ones’ lives—perhaps a New York

City family reunion taking in the sights and culture, or a weekend skiing the fresh powder of the Rockies. Making special plans close to home can also be instilled with the joy of a special occasion.

BUSINESS-ORIENTED. Business-ori-ented simplicity leads us to seek more meaningful alternatives to tchotchke-type gifts for employees and colleagues. Gift certificates to locally owned, green restaurants, health spas and other conscientious retailers and service providers help support local communi-ties while honoring business associates and making shopping meaningful—and simpler—for us.

SOULFUL. Less time spent shopping also translates to the option of devoting more time to beneficial activities that enhance our authentic selves. Spe-cial moments spent taking a walk in a quiet park, autumn garden or another natural setting provide a gentle way to step away from holiday craziness and de-stress.

When we know that the time and mon-ey we spent shopping have not only pleased the recipients, but have also done good in the world, it places our efforts in a new and brighter light. “As we get away from materialism,” sums up Urbanska, “the focus for Christmas and Hanukkah can return to its real spiritual meaning.”

Judith Fertig is a freelance writer in Overland Park, KS; for more informa-tion visit AlfrescoFoodAndLifestyle.blogspot.com.

“instead of buying new

clothes, make over your

matching wardrobe by re-

combining and re-accessoriz-

ing what’s in your closet—and

have fun with the remixing

process.”

~ Charlene Snyder, style consultant

SIMPLICITY IS NOT A SACRIFICEby Duane Elgin

Simplicity that’s consciously cho-sen, deliberate and intentional supports a higher quality of life.

Simplicity offers lives of opportunity, rather than sacrifice, in that it:

n Fosters a more harmonious relationship with the Earth

n Promotes fairness and equity among the people of the Earth

n Enhances living with balance— inner and outer; work and family; family and community

n Reveals the beauty and intelligence of nature’s designs

n Increases the resources available for future generations

n Helps save animal and plant species from extinction

n Responds to global shortages of oil, water and other vital resources

n Keeps our eyes on the prize of what matters most in our lives— the quality of our relationships with family, friends, community, nature and the cosmos

n Yields lasting satisfactions that more than compensate for the fleeting pleasures of consumerism

n Fosters self-discovery and an integrated approach to life

Duane Elgin’s writings, workshops and speaker presentations aim to foster a more sustainable and spiri-tual culture. See AwakeningEarth.org.


CONSIDER QUALITY. Investing our bud-get in more durable, quality products with long-term war-rantees, rather than breakable gadgets, can pay long-term benefits. For example, “Good cookware not only enhances the quality of my cooking… it’s also an incredible joy to use,” writes Ina Garten, author of the Barefoot Contessa cookbooks and cooking programs. “It’s not about disposable products; it’s about buying things you can use for a lifetime, and then pass on to your children.”

RE-GIFT. Ingram has no problem redirecting a gift she has received, but cannot use, to someone who can. After all, antique malls and thrift shops—where many people enjoy browsing and shopping—are full of items that were once given as gifts. Nan Fischer, an eco-broker in New Mexico who contributes to TheGoodHuman.com, likes the idea of repurposing gently used items as gifts, as long as she knows it’s some-thing the recipient would enjoy— perhaps a vintage purse or brooch, a hard-to-find book or a guitar for someone just starting to take les-sons. “We can calculate our carbon footprint based on our home energy bills, the food we eat and the cars we drive,” she comments. “The embod-ied energy spent in purchasing new items needs to be considered just as heavily. If we are buying used items, embodied energy is not expended.”

HELPING TO GREEN THE PLANET. “Compact fluorescent light bulbs, rechargeable batteries and reusable shopping bags make great stocking stuffers,” says Wanda Urbanska, co-author of Less is More, and pre-senter of Simple Living with Wanda Urbanska, on PBS. “Using these and other eco-friendly products through-out the year is guaranteed to keep you on Santa’s ‘good list.’” Another idea is proffering a gift certificate for a monthly or seasonal subscription to a community sup-ported agriculture (CSA) group. This sends regards and love to the recipi-ent each week throughout the local growing season, when they happily receive their weekly bag full of fresh local produce; it’s a gift with multiple benefits for local families, farmers, economies and the environment.

CONSCIOUS SPENDING MADE SIMPLE

by Judith Fertig

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Organic Food: Eat Green, Eat Cleanby Sharon Pisacreta

Confused by those boxes of organic cookies lining many grocery shelves? Or maybe there’s a question about just

how natural that ‘Naturally Raised’ beef really is. In response to growing concern about pesticides and harmful chemicals in the food supply, consumers are turning to organic alternatives. U.S. consumers spent $15 billion on organic food in 2005, according to the Organic Trade Association. And from 2002 to 2006, sales more than doubled. Many people, however, still aren’t certain what organic really means. So here’s a quick primer on how – and why – to buy organic. For vegetables, fruits or meat to qualify as organic, no growth hormones, antibiotics, bioengineering, radiation, sewage sludge, or synthetic pesticides and fertilizers can have been used to produce the crop or animal. In other words, organic food is what human beings ate for thousands of years. It is only with the advent of 20th century factory farming and its widespread use of chemicals that the food supply became adulterated. Everyone knows that the fresher the food, the better it tastes. Fresh picked fruits and vegetables contain more nutrients, vitamins and minerals than produce that was harvested before

ripening and then shipped long distances to reach store shelves. But commercial food producers are mainly concerned with a food product’s aesthetic appeal and its ability to stay fresh during shipping and display. To meet consumer demand for large, unblemished, colorful produce, agribusiness farms utilize a wide array of synthetic pesticides, herbicides, inorganic fertilizers and fungicides. What is often sacrificed is the unique flavor and nutritional value of that fruit or vegetable. In contrast, organic farming practices are designed to achieve ecological balance. Weeds are managed through crop rotation, mulching or tilling, and manure or compost naturally nourishes the soil. Pests are controlled through such things as biologically resistant plants, beneficial insects, and a genetically diverse crop. And animals raised on organic sustainable farms are not given hormones or antibiotics. They are treated humanely, fed organic food, and allowed a more natural life outdoors. So how does the consumer know what to look for? The USDA mandates three types of label designations. Food products made only from organic ingredients carry the label “100% Organic”. A “USDA Organic” label means that 95% of that food product’s ingredients are organic. Packages bearing the words “Made With Organic Ingredients” are only required to be 70% organic. Please note that the remaining 5-30% in those last two labels are allowed to have such things as pesticides, synthetic chemicals, fungicides and growth hormones in the food product.

Any food with less than 70% organic ingredients cannot use the USDA organic seal, or even include the word “organic” on the label. But they can list organic ingredients on the package. Label descriptions such as “free range”, “natural” or “hormone-free” are not organic, and can be misleading. For instance, a “free-range” chicken sounds as if it is living a natural existence outdoors. However, to satisfy industry standards for a “free-range” label, the poultry only has to have access to the outdoors for a mere five minutes a day. Buying meat which bears a “Natural” label indicates that no artificial preservatives or additives were used in its processing. But it tells the consumer little else. Was that animal genetically engineered, exposed to harmful chemicals, or forced to live in unsanitary conditions? A ‘Natural’ label does not address these important issues. A “Naturally Raised” label is reserved only for livestock that produces meat and meat products. It assures the consumer that no animal byproducts (a factor in mad cow disease) were in the feed, and that the animal was not given antibiotics or hormones. But this label reveals nothing about the living conditions of the animal, or any pesticides or genetic engineering it may have been exposed to. To help shoppers who may be confused about labeling, the Consumers Union has put up the free website greenerchoices.org. This public service site evaluates the labels of over 150 products. Also check out whatsonmyfood.org, as well as the Environmental Workers Group (EWG) website ewg.org Especially helpful is the EWG’s Shopper’s Guide to Pesticides, which lists the non-organic produce with the lowest levels of pesticide residue. The EWG Clean 15 are asparagus, avocado, cabbage, cantaloupe, eggplant, grapefruit, honeydew melon, kiwifruit, mango, onion, pineapple, sweet corn, sweet pea, sweet potato and watermelon. Go organic however when buying what the EWG dubs the ‘Dirty Dozen’. Those fruits and vegetables deemed too contaminated by conventional growing methods are apples, bell peppers, blueberries, celery, cherries, imported grapes, kale, nectarines, peaches, potatoes, spinach and strawberries. In fact, research conducted by the EWG between 2000-2008 showed that people who ate five servings a day from the ‘Dirty Dozen’ list were ingesting 10 pesticides daily. And in one test, a single strawberry sample yielded residue from 14 different pesticides. Still don’t think it’s worth the trouble to go organic? Mounting scientific evidence indicates that constant exposure to the synthetic chemicals used to grow our food has a long-term cumulative effect. A CDC 2005 study showed that more than 90% of Americans carry a mixture of pesticides in their blood. Twice the level of pesticides was detected in children. And many chemicals found in inorganic pesticides are suspected to be carcinogenic and toxic to the brain and reproductive system. For example, a 2010 Harvard study concluded that children with above average exposure to organophosphate, one


of the most commonly used pesticides in the U.S., were more likely to have ADHD. The endocrine disruptors found in many herbicides and insecticides also become deposited in body fat, and may be activated during a woman’s ovulation, pregnancy and breast-feeding. These disruptors affect both mother and child, and can result in miscarriage,

early onset puberty and reproductive abnormalities. Children are especially vulnerable. In 2004, the EWG tested the fetal cord blood of ten healthy infants from around the country. The blood showed that the infants had already been exposed to 287 chemicals, including DDT and the fungicide hexachlorabenzene. And don’t forget that most baby food consists of fruits and vegetables, which are often sprayed with insecticides containing nerve gases and neurotoxins. Because of the toxic effect pesticides have on the brain – especially one that is still developing – companies such as Gerber now sell organic baby food. Assurances by agribusiness that their farming methods are safe should be viewed with skepticism. The Environmental Protection Agency has canceled 6,224 registered uses of pesticides since 1996, leaving the consumer to wonder how many more will be deemed hazardous in the future. And it’s alarming to learn that many of the pesticides leaving a residue on our fruits and vegetables were initially developed for chemical warfare. It is clearly worth the effort to seek out local greenmarkets and the organic section of grocery or natural foods stores. To find the best sources of local organic food, visit localharvest.org Remember that even replacing just a few items on your grocery list with healthier organic choices can make a difference. Organic food is more nutritious, leaves a smaller carbon footprint, and yields more flavor. So eat well, eat wisely, eat clean. There is no better time to become part of the organic food movement.

Sharon Pisacreta is a long-time freelance writer who recently moved to Saugatuck/Douglas. She may be contacted at [email protected].


When the Thanksgiving dinner guest list in-cludes those who do not eat turkey, what is the cook—or the thoughtful guest—to do?

Many families feel they should come up with a second main course to offer alongside the traditional holiday bird. Likewise, vegetarian or vegan guests might want to bring a dish they can eat without mak-ing extra work for their host. So, in addition to turkey for traditionalists, what entrées can we prepare that are celebratory, seasonal, show-stoppers—but not faux turkey? Traditionally, Italian families have made both roasted turkey and a main pasta dish for Thanksgiv-ing. A vegetable lasagna will feed a crowd and can be made ahead of time. For a smaller group, prepared butternut ravioli, available fresh or frozen at better grocery stores, can be simply tossed with aromatic browned butter and sautéed fresh sage. For a vegan offering, small acorn squashes may be filled with a flavorful mixture of caramelized on-ions, savory beans and dried fruits. Smaller squash are more readily available in early November and keep well in the refrigerator or other cool spots. When these dishes arrive at the table, everyone will have much to be thankful for—including leftovers.

Judith Fertig is a freelance food writer at Alfresco-FoodAndLifestyle.blogspot.com. The accompanying recipes are from her cookbooks.

Thanksgiving LasagnaThis seasonal vegetarian entrée will feed a crowd and taste even bet-ter the next day.

Serves 12

9 no-boil lasagna noodles1 tbsp olive oil1 cup chopped onion2 cups sliced fresh mushrooms1 cup coarsely shredded carrot2 cups baby spinach2 cups cubed butternut squash1 (16-ounce) jar marinara sauce1½ tsp dried oregano, crushed2 cups cream-style cottage cheese, drained1 slightly beaten egg2 cups shredded Monterey jack cheese

1. Oil a 3-quart rectangular baking dish. Set aside.

2. Heat the olive oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet and sauté onion and mushrooms until the mushrooms begin to release their juices, about 5 minutes. Stir in carrots, squash and spinach and cook, stirring, until tender. Stir in marinara sauce and oregano. In a medium-size mixing bowl, stir together the cottage cheese and egg.

3. Layer three noodles in the bottom of the baking dish. Top with a third of the cottage cheese mixture, a third of the vegetable mixture and a third of the Monterey jack. Continue to layer, ending with a third of the Monterey jack sprinkled on top. Preheat the oven to 375° F.

4. Bake, uncovered, for 30 minutes or until bubbling. Let stand 10 minutes before serving.

Start a New

Thanksgiving TraditionThree Meatless Festive Entrée Options

by Judith Fertig


Butternut Squash Ravioli with Fresh Sage

This vegetarian dish features the vibrant fla-vors and colors of autumn.

Serves 4

Note: If butternut squash ravioli is not available, pair cheese ravioli with 2 cups of cooked butternut squash cubes and

toss with the browned butter and sage.

4 tbsp unsalted butter12 to 15 fresh sage leaves1 (14- to 16-ounce) package of fresh or frozen butternut squash ravioli¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

1. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat for about 4 minutes. When butter starts to have a nutty aroma and is light brown, add sage leaves and fry for 1 minute. Remove from heat.

2. Bring a large pot of water to the boil. Add ravioli and cook until they float to the top. Remove ravioli with a slotted spoon and toss gently in browned butter and sage sauce. Transfer to a large serving bowl and sprinkle with cheese.

Acorn Squash CompotesThese stuffed acorn squash will steal the spotlight.

Serves 8

2 cups thinly sliced onion2 tbsp olive oil1 (15.5-ounce) can chick peas, drained3 cups red kidney beans, rinsed and drained2 Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored and chopped1 cup dried cranberries1 cup snipped dried apricots½ cup Port, brandy, or dry white or red wine¼ cup honey1 tbsp fresh thyme leavesNatural salt and freshly ground pepper to taste8 small acorn squashes, cut in half and seededFresh thyme sprigs for garnish

1. Heat oil in large skillet that won’t stick over medium-high heat. Add onions and sauté until medium brown, about 10 minutes. Stir in chick peas, kidney beans, apples, dried fruits, Port and honey, and bring to a simmer. Remove from heat. Season with thyme leaves, salt and pepper. (Cooks have the option to make the filling up to this point ahead of time. Covered and refriger-ated, it will keep for up to three days.)

2. Preheat oven to 350° F.

3. Pack squashes with filling, place on baking tray and bake un-covered for 25 minutes. Cover with lids and bake 20 to 30 minutes more, until squashes are tender. Garnish with thyme and serve.


healingways

We know vitality when we see it.

People with vital-ity overflow with that special something; they stand out from the rest like shiny pennies. Why do some people have more vital-ity than others? Vitality is often broadcast via physical traits—spar-kling eyes, radiant skin or an energetic demeanor. It’s tempting to chalk it all up to good health, but there’s more to vitality than robust physiology. Not all clinically healthy and ostensibly fit people seem especially vital, while some physically frail individuals still manage to emanate an extraordinary life force and joie de vivre. In the West, vitality is often associ-ated with a strong supply of physical energy, vigor and resilience. In the East, what the Chinese call chi and healers in India call prana relates more to an inef-fable life force, currents that suffuse and sustain both the physical and nonphysi-cal aspects of every living thing.

The populariza-tion of Eastern practic-es such as yoga, Tai chi and meditation now offers more Americans a taste of life habits that can help us under-stand and cultivate this sort of vitality. Yet in America, vitality is still viewed as the frosting on the cake of life—and not, as in Eastern

cultures, its main focus. While good health enhances and helps signify vitality, it can’t deliver all of vitality’s benefits. So, what is the secret to sustaining our vitality or get-ting it back?

Reconnecting with What NourishesDan Buettner, bestselling author of The Blue Zones, is an expert on human longevity and vitality. He’s found that vitality has as much to do with social, emotional and mental health as with physical habits. For instance, diet and exercise play a big part in vitality, but

reclAim vitAlity!Reap the Benefits of Enhanced Life Force

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so do things like a sense of life purpose, spirituality and community. Identifying vitality zappers is equally important. Constance Grauds, a registered pharmacist, shamana (female shaman) and author of Jungle Medicine, explains that traditional medicine men believe human disease and suffering is caused by disconnec-tion and that its root is a core fear, or susto. She believes that most Ameri-cans are chronically afflicted by susto, living in the grip of one type of fear or another virtually all the time. Grauds suspects that Americans’ excess susto has something to do with chronic anxieties, pressures and “little fears” they face every day: job stress, money worries, social pressures, re-lationship troubles and so on. The net outcome is a massive vitality drain. To plug “energy leaks,” we need to build connections to the things that energize and sustain us, such as medi-tation or prayer, healthy food, loving relationships and mindful exercise, says Grauds. “Energy and vitality come from the joyful things we do in life that are

simple, free and right under our noses,” she observes, “like petting your dog, watering your garden and taking a few deep breaths. “Vitality is a measure of the life force within you,” she continues. “When we’re connected to our sources of vitality, not only do we have more energy to be more active and get more done, but we’re engaged, we’re present. We feel that flow of life force pumping through us.”

Where to StartAmericans are slowly waking up to the fact that we need to value our vital-ity more deeply or we risk losing it. It’s best to review vitality zappers and enhancers daily or weekly and repair minor leaks before a trickle becomes a torrent. We can start by finding a place of stillness. Consider meditating, keeping a journal, praying or just walking in the woods while asking our self how we are doing and feeling and what we are missing or longing for. Listen for

Seven Ways to Spark Vitality

n Get outside

n Cultivate community

n Be a lifelong learner

n Stay calm

n Honor promises

n Plug energy leaks

n Get enough sleep

the signals that say certain connections may have come loose, and that other factors may be pulling too strongly. “Plugging into life is the key to more vitality,” says Grauds. “Find ways to connect to the world outside yourself.”

Catherine Guthrie is a freelance writer based in Bloomington, IN. Connect at CatherineGuthrie.com.


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Greater Genesee, MI

Wayne County, MIGreater Oakland/ Raleigh/Durham/Chapel Hill, NC


Raleigh/Durham/Raleigh/Durham/Raleigh/Durham/Charlotte, NCCharlotte, NCCharlotte, NC

Morris County, NJ Albuquerque, NMMorris County, NJ

Asheville, NCAsheville, NCWayne County, MIWayne County, MI

Central MissouriCentral MissouriCentral Missouri

Birmingham, AL& Huntsville, AL

Hot Springs, ARBiBirmingham, ALVentura, CAVentura, CA

Lafayette, LALafayette, LA

Dallas, Texas

Lehigh Valley, PA

Dallas, Texas

As a Natural Awakenings publisher, your magazine will help thousands of readers to make positive changes in their lives, while promoting local practitioners and providers of natural, earth-friendly lifestyles.

You will be creating a healthier community while building your own fi nancial security in the franchise market of your choice. You’ll work for yourself but not by yourself. We offer a complete training and support system designed to help you successfully publish your own magazine.

Become a new Natural Awakenings franchise publisher in the market of your choice, or purchase one of the existing magazines currently for sale: Boulder CO, Southwest VA. and Ventura, CA

Our Family Tree Is Growing StrongPhenomenal Monthly Circulation Growth Since 1994

Join Our Family of Publishers... be your own boss and make a difference in your community

Memphis, TNMemphis, TN

Denver, CO Hartford County, CTDenver, CO

Indianapolis, INIndianapolis, IN

Emerald Coast, FLEmerald Coast, FL

For more information contact John R. Voell, Co-Founder 239-530-1377 or visit us online at NaturalAwakeningsMag.com

John R. Voell,


Little Rock/Hot Springs, AR

Little Rock/

Mobile/Baldwin, ALMobile/Baldwin, ALBoulder, COBoulder, CO Hartford County, CTHartford County, CTPhoenix, AZPhoenix, AZ Hartford County, CT

Fairfi eld County, CTFairfi eld County, CTFairfi eld County, CTFairfi eld County, CT

Daytona/Volusia/Flagler, FL

Daytona/New Haven/Middlesex, CTNew Haven/

Melbourne/Vero Beach, FL

Melbourne/Vero Beach, FLVero Beach, FLJacksonville/

St. Augustine, FLJacksonville/

Miami & Florida Keys

Miami & St. Augustine, FLFt. Lauderdale, FLFt. Lauderdale, FLNaples/

Ft. Myers, FLNaples/

Orlando, FLOrlando, FLNorth Central FLNorth Central FL Palm Beach, FLPalm Beach, FL

Tampa/St. Petersburg, FL

gler, FL

Tampa/St. Petersburg, FLSt. Petersburg, FL

Tallahassee, FLSt. Petersburg, FLSt. Petersburg, FL

Tallahassee, FL

gler, FL

Florida’s Treasure Coast

gler, FLgler, FL

Florida’s

Sarasota, FLPeace River, FL& Portland, OR

Sarasota, FL

Atlanta, GAAtlanta, GA Louisville/Metro, KYLouisville/Lexington, KYLexington, KY New Orleans, LANew Orleans, LA

San Diego, CASan Diego, CA

Ann Arbor, MIAnn Arbor, MI Grand Rapids, MIGrand Rapids, MI

Wayne County, MIWayne County, MIAsheville, NCAsheville, NC


Raleigh/Durham/Raleigh/Durham/Raleigh/Durham/Raleigh/Durham/Raleigh/Durham/Raleigh/Durham/Raleigh/Durham/Southern Coast, NCSouthern Coast, NCSouthern Coast, NC Monmouth &

Ocean, NJMonmouth &Somerset -

Middlesex, NJ

Southern Coast, NC Somerset -

New York City, NYNew York City, NYNew York City, NYNew York City, NYNew York City, NYLong Island, NY

New York City, NYNew York City, NYLong Island, NYLong Island, NY

Rockland/Orange, NYRockland/Rockland/

Long Island, NYLong Island, NYLong Island, NYSanta Fe/

Albuquerque, NMSanta Fe/

Oklahoma City, OKOklahoma City, OKCincinnati, OHCincinnati, OH Tulsa, OKTulsa, OK

Bucks County, PABucks County, PABucks County, PALehigh Valley, PALehigh Valley, PALehigh Valley, PALehigh Valley, PA

Charleston, SCCharleston, SCCharleston, SCCharleston, SC Rhode Island

Charleston, SCCharleston, SC Rhode Island Rhode Island

East TexasEast TexasRichmond, VARichmond, VA

Southwestern VASouthwestern VAMadison, WIMadison, WI

Tucson, AZTucson, AZ

Portland, ORPortland, OR

Upstate, SCUpstate, SCColumbia, SC &Grand Strand, SCColumbia, SC &

Austin, TXAustin, TXAustin, TXAustin, TX

Houston, TXHouston, TXSan Antonio, TX

Richmond, VARichmond, VASan Antonio, TX Puerto RicoPuerto Rico

Toronto, CanadaToronto, Canada

Augusta, GAAugusta, GA

Chattanooga, TN& Knoxville, TN

Chattanooga, TN Nashville, TNNashville, TN

Westchester/Putnam, NY

Westchester/

Northeast, PANortheast, PA

Wayne County, MIWayne County, MIGreater Oakland/Macomb, MI &

Greater Genesee, MI

Wayne County, MIGreater Oakland/ Raleigh/Durham/Chapel Hill, NC


Raleigh/Durham/Raleigh/Durham/Raleigh/Durham/Charlotte, NCCharlotte, NCCharlotte, NC

Morris County, NJ Albuquerque, NMMorris County, NJ

Asheville, NCAsheville, NCWayne County, MIWayne County, MI

Central MissouriCentral MissouriCentral Missouri

Birmingham, AL& Huntsville, AL

Hot Springs, ARBiBirmingham, ALVentura, CAVentura, CA

Lafayette, LALafayette, LA

Dallas, Texas

Lehigh Valley, PA

Dallas, Texas

As a Natural Awakenings publisher, your magazine will help thousands of readers to make positive changes in their lives, while promoting local practitioners and providers of natural, earth-friendly lifestyles.

You will be creating a healthier community while building your own fi nancial security in the franchise market of your choice. You’ll work for yourself but not by yourself. We offer a complete training and support system designed to help you successfully publish your own magazine.

Become a new Natural Awakenings franchise publisher in the market of your choice, or purchase one of the existing magazines currently for sale: Boulder CO, Southwest VA. and Ventura, CA

Our Family Tree Is Growing StrongPhenomenal Monthly Circulation Growth Since 1994

Join Our Family of Publishers... be your own boss and make a difference in your community

Memphis, TNMemphis, TN

Denver, CO Hartford County, CTDenver, CO

Indianapolis, INIndianapolis, IN

Emerald Coast, FLEmerald Coast, FL

For more information contact John R. Voell, Co-Founder 239-530-1377 or visit us online at NaturalAwakeningsMag.com

John R. Voell, www.expressionsofgraceyoga.com5270 Northland Drive NE | Grand Rapids, MI 49525 | 616-361-8580

First class Free For new students!

4 week packages available!

bring your partner to yoga For FreeFor the month of November. Some restrictions apply, see website for details.

Community Spotlightby Julie Hurley

Barbara Lee of Pilgrim Spirit Tours woke up one morning while in Tibet and had a revelation: to lead people into

China and Tibet to participate in the culture and experience the country as the indigenous people do. “Many people travel to places like Tibet and China and end up just observing and not participating,” Barbara said. “Instead of visiting a temple and watching people meditate, we’ll be there, meditating ourselves.” While on that trip, Barbara became friends with Kevin Yang, a native of Beijing and her trip’s tour guide. “As he and I got to talking, I realized that he was a very amazing and special young man.” Barbara said. “I shared my vision with him and he put me in touch with his employers, made suggestions for the pilgrimage’s itinerary, and is now an integral part of the process.” Kevin serves as the trip’s tour guide and greets all travelers when they get off the plane. In addition to Kevin’s expertise, there is a local guide during each stop in the pilgrimage. “We are all extremely well-cared for, but it’s not a luxury trip,” Barbara said. “We go to places where tourists don’t usually go, well off the beaten track. It’s an opportunity to sit and meditate, meet with people to practice various Asian traditions and spend time with the people who live in these areas.” The next trip, which is scheduled for April 12-28, 2011, will visit Tibet and the Yunnen Province. The Yunnen Province is home to over 30 minority cultures. “This is a complete immersion experience into the minority cultures of Tibet and China, a place with a 5000-year history,” Barbara said. “In addition to the indigenous cultural experiences, the trip will include a few attractions that anyone

on their first trip to China would want to experience, including excursions to walk on the Great Wall and see the Terra Cotta Warriors.” Those interested in the trip should be in decent physical condition, as the group will be doing a lot of walking, hiking and climbing. Included in the $4,960 trip is transportation once in China, all lodging accommodations and almost every meal. A refundable $100 deposit is needed to reserve a seat on this trip, which accommodates between six and 12 people. More information, including an itinerary, can be found by calling 616-502-2078 or at www.pilgrimspirittours.com. “There are many ways we can travel in this world. Vacations offer us exotic locations and respite from the demands of our daily life,” Barbara said. “But too often we are only observers

as we move from place to place, seeing the sights that attract the tourists, protected from the harsher realities and the deeper spirituality of the lands in which we move.” In addition to Pilgrim Spirit Tours, Barbara also volunteers as the Experi-Mentor/Ordained Minister at Extended Grace Faith Community and is a Master Reiki Teacher and Practitioner.

She works full-time at a methadone clinic in Grand Rapids, where she practices acupuncture and leads a spirituality group for clients. To learn more about Barbara’s services, visit: www.barbaralee.vpweb.com. See ad page 46.

A married mother of two young children, Julie Hurley is a freelance writer with a strong interest in natural living and is the co-founder of M2 Quality Solutions: m2qualitysolutions.blogspot.com. Visit her blog at: ourlunch.blogspot.com


Note: 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.

tuesday, November 2BAROLO: A Craft Reading from the Food-and-Wine Memoir-7:00pm.MatthewGavinFrank,a15yr.veteranofthefood-and-wineindustrywillreadfromhisbook,anddiscusstheinspirationandstoriesbehindcertainscenes.Free.GrandRapidsPublicLibraryGrand Rapids.616-988-5400.

wednesday, November 3Giving Back to Grand Rapids-8:00am-6:00pm.Dr.AndrewSchaferwillbegivingawayChiropracticservicesinexchangeforfooditemstobedonatedtoKid’sFoodBasket.SchaferChiropractic&HealingSpa,1801BretonSESuiteA,Grand Rapids.Pleasecallfordetails616-301-3000.Mindful/Conscious Eating & Living-7:00-8:00pm.JoincertifiedmassagetherapistandnutritionalcounselorSusanJ.McFarland,foranhourofrelaxation,learningandfunduringhermonthlySpiritualHealthSeries.Cost$15,cash/check.CopticCenter.Grand Rapids.616-510-0985.Guided Meditation and Healing Circle-7:00-8:00pm.Escapefromstressanddiscoveraninnerworldofcalm,peace&joythroughguidedmeditation,andenergyhealingfromHealinginAmerica-trainedhealers.$5.HolisticCareApproach,3368E.BeltlineCt.NE,Grand Rapids.269-929-6796.Stitch Alchemy: Combining Paper and Fabric for Mixed Media Art –7:00pm.KelliPerkinswilldemonstratebasicstitchpapertechniquesfromherbookStitchAlchemy.Free.GrandRapidsPublicLibrary.Grand Rapids. 616-988-5400.

thursday, November 4“How to Create Therapeutic Laughter and Laughter Clubs” Certification Workshop-For$349,gettheknowledge&skillstomakepeoplelaughthroughactivitiesthatreducestress,lowerbloodpressure,alleviatepain&improveimmunefunctions.CEUsavailable.AquinasCollege,Grand Rapids. 1-800-NOW-LAFForWorldLaughterTour.comtoregister.

friday, November 5“How to Create Therapeutic Laughter and Laughter Clubs” Certification Workshop-For$349,gettheknowledge&skillstomakepeoplelaughthroughactivitiesthatreducestress,lowerbloodpressure,alleviatepain&improveimmunefunctions.CEUsavailable.AquinasCollege,Grand Rapids.1-800-NOW-LAFForWorldLaughterTour.comtoregister.Immersion Program–11/5-11/7.JoinFromtheHeartYogaCenterforaTransformationalJourneyintotheHeartofAnusaraYoga™.FromTheHeartYoga,714WealthyStinGrand Rapids. 616-336-9642Guided Healing and Reiki Share-7:00-9:30pm.ForReikipractitioners.Come,enjoy.Pleasebringameditationcushion.Donationonly.HaelenHolisticTreatments.147DiamondSE,Grand

Rapids. 616-446-6906.Parenthood the Circus theatrical fundraiser for MomsBloom-7:30pm.GreatnightoutatEastGrandRapidsPerformingArtsCenter.Doorsopenat6:30withappetizers,drinksandpre-showentertainment.Seeourwebsiteforinformationonhowtopurchaseticketsatmomsbloom.org.616-828-1021.GotAncestors?! Annual Seminar: Are They Who You Think They Are? -FeaturingMichelleObama’sRootsResearcherMeganSmolenyak.ThecostforFridayis$15.SeminarRegistrationis$49forSaturdayonlyor$59forthetwo-dayprogramifregisteredbyNovember8th.PrinceConferenceCenter.Grand Rapids. Gotancestors.com.

saturday, November 6Essential Oil Basic Training I & II-10:00am-12:00pm.&1:00-3:00pm.Comelearnabouttherapeuticgradeoils,theirbenefits,andhowtousethem.$10withpre-registrationor$20atthedoor.Minerva’sHand.Spring Lake. heavenlyhealings.orgorcallJoditoregister616-443-4225.West Michigan Spa & Wellness Expo-10:00am-5:00pm.Comeasyouareandleaverejuvenated.Admissionfree-donationsforLoveINC.Tri-Citiesacceptedat theDoor.CommunityEvent-freetoall.Vendorswanted.Email-spaandwellnessgr@yahoo.comorcall616-405-9060.TrilliumBanquetCenter,17246VanWagoner,Spring Lake. Open Mind Fair -10:00am-6:00pm.AngelCommunication,Astrology,Aura Photos,Palmestry,PsychicandSpiritualReadings.BookSigningw/DeniseIwaniw,authorofBooks,CD’sand“TheMysticAngelsEmpowermentDeck”,debutedduringArtPrizeatVanHoecksShoes.Call616-863-8868oremailomrockford@yahoo.comformoreinfo.Women’s Mind, Body, Spirit Cleansing Day Retreat–1:00-10:00pm.Asafe,gentlesweatlodgeceremony(notNativeAmerican)facilitatedbyDinahtoreleaseemotional,physical,andmentaltoxins.$50.Fourspacesleft.ContactDinahatDinah@Awakenedpotentials.comor616-754-9672.Family Open Gym-7:00-9:00pm.Opentoallages.Comeandplayinthegym!Members$10.Nonmembers$15.GymcoSports.2306CamelotRidgeCourtSE.Grand Rapids.616-956-0586.gymco.com.

sunday, November 7Ayurveda: The Yoga of Eating-12:00-2:00pm.Dauntedwiththequestion“Whattoeat?”ExploretheancientwisdominAyurvedaandwhatitcandoforyou.ExpressionsofGraceYoga.Grand Rapids. expressionsofgraceyoga.com616-361-8580.LuLu Lemon Yoga Clothing Trunk Show-3:00-6:00pm.Comeandshopandfindjusttherightyoga&fitnessclothingforyou!Lululemonathleticacreatesyoga-inspiredathleticapparelforbothwomenandmen.MuskegonYogaCenter.Norton Shores. 231-668-4181.

calendarofevents monday, November 8De-stress Your Life: The Work of Byron Katie with Sue Hartman-6:30-8:30pm.ByronKatieisasimpleyetprofoundprocessofinquirywhereyouidentityandquestionyourstressfulthoughts,sothatthethoughtsletgoofyou.FountainStChurch,24FountainSt,Grand Rapids.616-459-8386Chinese Acupressure Face Lift Class-6:30-8:00pm.IrvingMarcus,OrientalPhysician,willteachthisnaturalbeautytechniquethatimproveselasticityandtoneofyourskin.$40,bringafriendanditis$35each.WithLisaW.LeeattheInternationalWellnessOffice.Spring Lake. [email protected] Balancing 101-7:00-8:30pm.JoinDr.DanGleasonforadiscussionontheroleofhormonesinthebody,reproductivehormonesaftermenopause,conventionalHRTvs.naturaltreatments,andhormonetestingoptions.FREE.BlueBirdCancerRetreatCenter,917Savidge,Spring Lake. 616-846-5410.

tuesday, November 9Surviving the Holidays with a Chronic Illness-1:00-2:30pm.GuestSpeakerAndreaHoekzemafromProfessionalTherapeuticMassage.SaintMary’sWegeCenterConferenceRoom#14,300LafayetteSE.Grand Rapids.Trigger Point Massage-6:00pm.Dr.MichaelKwast,DC,CSCSpresentshowtodoTriggerPointMassage.Learnwhatatriggerpointis,whatcausesthem,howtopreventthem,howtogetridofthem,handsontraining.Grand Rapids. Seatinglimitedtofirst30callers.Reservebycalling616-447-9888.Focus on Life Annual Benefit Dinner-DinnerandProgram6:30-9:00pm.GuestSpeakerEileenSmith.Crusaderofthepro-lifemovementwho’s22yearoldadopteddaughter,Laura,diedontheabortiontableNovember13,2007.$30.MuskegonCountyRighttoLife.PrinceofPeaceChurchFr.SchaferHall.North Muskegon.Formoreinfo,call231-733-6300.

wednesday, November 10Natural Solutions to Relieving Headaches-6:00pm.Dr.MichaelKwast,DC,CSCSpresentationonHeadaches.Learnwhatcausesthem,howtopreventthemandhowtogetridofthem.Grand Rapids. Seatinglimitedtofirst30callers.Reservebycalling616-447-9888.Guided Meditation, Prayer and Healing Circle-7:00-8:00pm.Relaxtoguidedmeditation,andreceiveenergyhealingfromlocalhealerswhilechurchchaplainsprayoveryourprayerrequests.Donation.UnityChurchontheLakeshore,41So.Washington,Douglas. 269-857-8226.

thursday, November 11What are self-health tools?–7:00pm.Thebio-rayLEDwandisanewdevicethataffectsourhealingprocess.Learnabouttheresearchbehindthisdevice.Pleasecallforreservations.TheWellnessForum,830ForestHillAve,Grand Rapids. 616-942-7907

friday, November 12Fine Art Opening-6:00-9:00pm.“I’mOneofThoseAmericans”.CarmenMaret,MAJICConcertSeries,BethlehemLutheranChurch


Gallery, 250CommerceAveSW,Grand Rapids. 616-456-1741orwww.grmajic.org

saturday, November 13Reiki I and II-9:00am-5:00pm.WithReikiMasterandGendaiReikiShihanPaulaBojsen.$230includingdetailedmanual.TraininginbothWesternandGendaiReiki.reikihaus@att.net.Holland.616-392-1138.Mind, Body and Soul Expo-11:00am-4:00pm.Massage,AnimalCommunicator,Authors,Healers,SoyCandles,WalkingSticks,Authorsandmore.JohnC.BlanchardHouse,251E.Main,Ionia.616-902-5042.R & R at Seva Yoga w/ Marro and Mimi-MarroSpeharandMimiRaybringbodyandsoulintogreaterbalancewithanafternoonofnourishingyogaasana,meditationandpranayamabreathing.Enhancingourexperiencew/essentialoilsfordeeprenewal.Grand Rapids.$35.616-446-7759sevayoga.net

sunday, November 14Reiki I and II-9:00am-5:00pm.WithReikiMasterandGendaiReikiShihanPaulaBojsen.$230includingdetailedmanual.TraininginbothWesternandGendaiReiki.reikihaus@att.net.Holland. 616-392-1138.Reiki I & II Class- 10:00 am-4:00 pm.IntroductiontoReiki,becomeattuned,andlearnbasichandpositionstogivetreatmentstoothersandself.Classfee$225includesregistrationdepositof$50requiredaweekpriortoclass.Minerva’sHand.Spring Lake. heavenlyhealings.orgorcallJodi616-443-4225toregister.Women’s Authentic Soul Collage Creating Workshop –1:00-8:00pm.Discoveryourauthenticsoulandwhatmakesyoucomealive,nourishyourspiritandbringvitalitytoeverypartofyourlife.Thenmakeacircularcollagethatwewillawakeninasmallceremony.Materialsareprovided.$50.ContactDinahatDinah@Awakenedpotentials.comor616-754-9672.

monday, November 15Dream Catcher Workshop-5:30-7:30pm.Learnhowtomakeadreamcatcher&takehometheoneyoumake.Allsuppliesincludedinclassfeeofonly$25.Pre-registrationrequired.Minerva’sHand.Spring Lake.Call616-443-4225oremailJodiheavenlyhealings@yahoo.comwithquestionsortoregister.

tuesday, November 16Fibromyalgia Workshop-12:00pm.PresentedbyDr.GabrielO’Brien,EventisFREEtothepublicwithAdvanceRegistrationbycalling231-744-6400andanon-perishabledonationforthelocalfoodpantry.1519E.RiverRd.Ste.B,Muskegon.Reiki Share Group- 5:30-7:30pm. JoinotherReikipractitionersofalllevelstoshareexperiences,aguidedvisualization,sendReikidistantlyandbothgiveandreceiveReiki.JanAtwood,LLC,801BroadwayAveNW,Ste436,Grand Rapids.616-915-4144.CranioSacral Study Group-7:00-9:00pmforallUpledgerCSTpractitioners,facilitatedbyEllenCostantino,atHolisticCareApproach3368BeltlineCt.NEGrand Rapids.ContactJamilahTuukformoreinfo:[email protected].

wednesday, November 175 Things You Can Do Right Now To Be the Healthiest You’ve Ever Been!-6:30pm.Dr,Mikewillteachyou5nutritionalsupplementsthatEVERYONEshouldbetaking,whylosingweightshouldNOTbeyourmaingoal.Seatingislimited.MoreaChiropracticWellnessCenter.Fruitport.231-865-7474.Vision Board Workshop – 7:00-9:00pm.Surroundingyourselfwithimagesthatdepictyourdreams,wishes,hopesanddesires,youaretakingthefirststeptomakingthemyourreality.JoinSusanLoughrinforanopportunitytoexploreyourlifeanddesignyourfuture.$10freewilloffering.Bluebirdoffices,917W.SavidgeSt.#37,Spring Lake.616-847-0839Advance Screening–7:00pm.ForksOverKnivesexaminestheprofoundclaimthatmost,ifnotall,ofthedegenerativediseasesthatafflictuscanbecontrolled,orevenreversed.GrandRapidsCommunityCollege,151FountainStreet,Grand Rapids. Callfordetails616-942-7907

thursday, November 18C.A.R.E. Intensive Begins-9/18-9/21.4-dayNCBTMBandIACET(25CEhr/2.5CEU)authorizedtrainingprovidespracticalappliedaromatherapyskillsforthehealingprofessionalsandnon-professionalsinBibleOils,Vitaflex,Chemistry,RaindropTechnique,EmotionalRelease.Instructor:KathySpohn,FCCI,oilsofold.abmp.com,[email protected],221928thStreetSW,Wyoming. 616-261-0015.Fruitcake Festival-5:30-9:30pm.11/18-11/20.$35/session.Reservationsarerequired.FacilityKitchens,Lowell. VisitFacilitykitchens.comorcall616-304-8334.The Power of Nutrition with Enzymes-7:00-8:00pm.SpeakerisBarbaraMeconisRN.RSVPtoHolisticCareApproach.CostisFree.HolisticCareApproach.3368BeltlineCtNE.Grand Rapids.616-361-9221.

friday, November 19Fire of Transformation Practice-6:30-8:30pm.BasedonJohnFriend’sEyeoftheTigerPractice.Lighttheinnerfireoftheheart,transformandreshapeyourpractice,playyouredgeanddevelopflexibilityandjoyincommunity.Callforprerequisites.$18.ExpressionsofGraceYoga.Grand Rapids. expressionsofgraceyoga.com.616-361-8580.JourneyDance-8:00-9:30pm.JourneyDanceisaninspiring,intuitive,playfulandoftenexhilaratingmovementexperiencemixingyogaflowandfree-formmovementwithavarietyofworldmusic.$15/person,$25/twopeople.MuskegonYogaCenter.Muskegon.MuskegonYoga.com

saturday, November 20Essential Oil Training III & IV-10:00am-12:00pm&1:00-3:00pm.AMclasswilldiscussRaindropTherapytheoils,thetechniqueandthebenefit.PMclasswilldiscussEmotionalClearingoils.Minerva’sHand.Spring Lake. $10pre-registrationor$20atthedoor.Visitheavenlyhealings.orgorcall616-443-4225.Chakra Clearing and Balancing-2:00-4:30pm.WithSusanDuesbery.Learnaboutthechakrasandexploretimehonoredtechniquesof sound, yoga postures, visual izat ion,

touch,andbreathtokeepthemfunctioningoptimally.$35.ExpressionsofGraceYoga.Grand Rapids. expressionsofgraceyoga.com.616-361-8580.

monday, November 22Fast Track to Health-6:30pm.Areyousickandtiredofbeingsickandtired?Learnhowtoaddyearstoyourlifeandlifetoyouryears!Thistalkwillsaveyoutime,energyandmoneyandhelpyoutorealizeoptimalhealth.MoreaChiropractic.Fruitport.231-865-7474.

tuesday, November 23How to have a Healthy Holiday Season-6:00pm.WorkshopconductedbyDr.GabrielO’Brien.EventsareFREE,withadvanceregistrationbycalling231-744-6400andbringinganon-perishablefooditemtobedonatedtothelocalfoodpantry.1519E.RiverRd.Ste.B,Muskegon.DYSLEXIA/AIXELSYD- 6:30 pm. NewChapterLearningwillprovideafreeinformationalseminar.Whatarethecharacteristicsofdyslexia,therootcauseofdyslexia,andhowtheproblemcanbecorrected?GrandvilleMiddleSchool.3535WilsonAve.Pre-register616-534-1385.newchapterlearning.net.

friday, November 26 Kids Day Away-12:00-4:00pm.Kidswillhavelunchandplayinthegym!Members$25.Nonmembers$20.GymcoSports.2306CamelotRidgeCourtSEGrand Rapids.616-956-0586.gymco.com.

saturday, November 27 Getaway Weekend-SaturdaylunchtoSundaylunch.Apeaceful retreat.$69.43 includessharedroomlodging,delicious,home-cookedvegetarian meals Private room, services,andclassesavailableforadditionalcharges.SelfRealizationMeditationHealingCentre,7187DrumhellerRd,Bath.517-641-6201.SelfRealizationCentreMichigan.org.

sunday, November 28Sabbath Awaiting: Resting in Anticipation of the Christ Child’s Arrival: An Advent Retreat-6:00pm-2:00pm.Joinusforthisquiettimeforwomenandmentoenjoytheblessingof“restbeforetherush”oftheapproachingholidays.$125.Toregistercall989-855-2606.leaven.org.

wednesday, december 1Children’s Health and Nutrition Class-7:00-8:00pm.JoinHolisticHealthPractitionerSusanMcFarlandforanhourofrelaxation,learningandfun.ExploreChildren’sHealthandNutritionaspartofthemonthlySpiritualHealthSeries.Costoftheclassis$15,cashorcheck.CopticCenter.Grand Rapids. ofthevineholistichealth.com616-510-0985.

friday, december 3 Yoga Techniques for Partnering-6:30-8:30pm.WithMimiRay&CarolHendershot.Partneringinyogaisagreattooltodeepenandexpandyourpractice.Learnskillfultechniquestohelpbothyouandyourpartnertobuildastrongeryogapractice.$30.ExpressionsofGraceYoga. Grand Rapids.expressionsofgraceyoga.com.616-361-8580.


ongoingevents

inthebodywithtake-homecolor-codedchartstoassesshealthprogress.Callforanappointment.Grand Rapids.616-365-9176.Yoga-Beginning-9:00am.Thisiswhereyoustart.Learnthebasicposes,strengthen,breathawarenessandrelax.FormoreinformationvisitSmilingLotusYoga.comorcallSmilingLotusYoga,103E.LudingtonAve,Ludington. 231-852-0849.Half Priced Yoga Day–6:00pm.CommunityYogaforAllLevelsfollowedbyYogaNidraat7:30pm.$5each. SatyaYogaCenter,3385BlueStarHighway,Saugatuck.269-857-7289Intermediate Hatha Yoga with Mitch Coleman – 6:15-7:30pm. Drop-ins welcome.VisitWhiteRiverYoga.comformoreinformation.ClassesmeetatWhiteRiverYogaStudio,8724FerrySt.Montague. 231-740-6662.Bhagavad Gita: The Battle of Light with Fred Stella-7:00-8:30pm.Inthiscourse,wewilltakeupfromwhereweleftoffinlastseason’scourseonHinduDharmaandtheintroductiontotheBhagavadGita.FountainSt.Church.Grand Rapids. [email protected] Living Lecture Series-7:00-8:30pm.2ndMondayeachmonth.Dr.DanGleasonwillhelpyouunderstandyourbodyandexplorewaystobepreventative.Bluebirdoffices,917W.SavidgeSt.#37,Spring Lake.ContactDr.Gleasonwithquestions.616-846-5410Kripalu Yoga with Marro Spehar-7:30pm.Gentle/Moderate.Drop-inswelcome.Formoredetailsvisitourwebsiteatsevayoga.net.SevaYogaStudio,2213WealthySte220,East Grand Rapids.616-458-2541.

tuesdayEarly Morning Yoga with Jill-6:30-7:30am.Learnhowtobreatheintothebodyandcreateabalanceofeffortandease.Alllevels.$10-$16perclass.sevayoga.netEast Grand Rapids.Gentle Hatha Yoga with Mitch Coleman-7:45-9:00am&9:15-10:30am.Drop-inswelcome.VisitWhiteRiverYoga.comformoreinformation.ClassesmeetatWhiteRiverYogaStudio,8724FerrySt.Montague.231-740-6662.Education and Advocacy Meeting-1:00-2:30pm.PeterM.WegeCenter.St.Mary’sHealthCare. Grand Rapids.Essential Oil Trainings-6:00-8:00pm.5different trainings rotated throughout themonth:TherapeuticGrade,EverydayOils,RaindropTherapy,EmotionalClearing,&SpiritualJourneyOils.Grand Rapids.$10pre-registration/$20atthedoorforeachclass.heavenlyhealings.orgPrenatal Yoga - 7:30-8:30pm. Drop-inswelcome.Fordetailsvisitsevayoga.net.SevaYogaStudio,2213WealthySte220,East Grand Rapids.616-458-2541.

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 subject to change, please call ahead.

All month longFresh and Healthy Asian Grocery Destination-First-timecustomersreceive10%offyour$20orhigherpurchase.AsianDelightMarketplace,4463BretonRd,Grand Rapids. 616-827-1828Silent Prayer and Pure Meditation-8:30pmMon-Sat,7:30pmSundays,w/WingedPrayereveryeveningat9pm.Allfaithsandpracticeswarmlywelcomed.Nocharge.SelfRealizationMeditationHealingCentre.Bath. 517-641-6201.SelfRealizationCentreMichigan.org

sundayC3Exchange, Inclusive Spiritual Community: Awakenings-9:00am.Chants,meditation,prayer.Noexperiencenecessary.Comeasyouare.C3Exchange, InclusiveSpiritualCommunity,225E.ExchangeStreet,Spring Lake. 616-842-1985.c3exchange.org.C3Exchange, Inclusive Spiritual Community: Main Gathering-10:00am.Progressivespiritualteachingwithmusic,meditation,discussionandchildren’sprogram.C3Exchange,InclusiveSpiritualCommunity,225E.ExchangeStreet,Spring Lake.616-842-1985.c3exchange.org.Unity Church of Peace-10:00am.CelebratingGod’spresence inhumannature.Offeringupliftingmessagesthatarespiritualwithoutbeingreligious.Youthprograms&Nursery.6025AdaDriveSE,Ada.616-682-7812.www.unity-churchofpeace.org.Free Spirit Worship Center–10:00am.Fillintheblank:“Iama__?WellthenComeOn,YouAreInvited!Worshipisinformalandpet-friendly.820MonroeAveNW,Ste.120.Grand Rapids.616791-8828.FREE Yoga for Beginners / Intermediates–2:00-3:15pm.Gearedtowardsbeginnersofferingmodificationsandbenefitsof allposes.Alllevelswelcome.Donationswelcome.SatyaYogaCenter,3385BlueStarHighway,Saugatuck.269-857-7289New Hot Yoga–4:00-5:30pm.Intensepracticecombiningtraditionalyogaposesandsequencesintendedtoincreasethesweatanddetoxifytheentirebody.$15.SatyaYogaCenter,3385BlueStarHighway,Saugatuck.269-857-7289The Coptic Center Sunday Series –6:00pm.Anongoingseriesofinspirationalspeakers,centeringandthepianomusicofKarenLauckasweexploreUniversalTruths.TheCopticCenter.org.LoveOffering.TheCopticCenter,0-381LakeMichiganDrNW,Grand Rapids. 616-531-1339.Kripalu Yoga with Marro Spehar -7:00pm.Gentle/Moderate(donationclass).Drop-inswelcome.Fordetailsvisitsevayoga.net.SevaYogaStudio,2213WealthySte220,East Grand Rapids.616-458-2541.

monday50% Off BioMeridian Assessments-State-of-the-artprofilingandtrackingofall58meridians

saturday, december 4Restorative Yoga Workshop w/ Carolyn Heines-2:00-4:00pm.Anurturingandsoothingsequenceofposestocalmthenervesandrechargethebatteries.Aperfectwaytoentertheholidayseason.$30.Grand [email protected].

monday, december 6Holiday Open House-6:00-8:00pm.Thisfreefamily-friendlyeventwillfeatureliveholidaymusic,gourmetcoffeeandtea.ThisyeartheCenterisholdingasilentauctiontosupportanotheryearofservices.AnxietyResourceCenter.Grand Rapids. anxietyresourcecenter.org.616-356-1614.


sAv e t H e dAt esave the date eventsMustbesubmittedonlineeachmonthatNaturalWestMichigan.com.Eventspriced$80oraboverequireacorrespondingdisplayad.Thereisa$45chargeperlisting,upto50words.Ifyouareacurrentadvertiser,distributionsiteornon-profityoumayusethislistinginplaceofoneofyourfreelistingsfora$25charge.

wednesday50% Off BioMeridian Assessments-State-of-the-artprofilingandtrackingofall58meridiansinthebodywithtake-homecolor-codedchartstoassesshealthprogress.Callforanappointment.Grand Rapids. 616-365-9176.Kripalu Yoga with Marro Spehar -10:30am-Gentle.7:30pm-Gentle/Moderate.Drop-inswelcome.Fordetailsvisitsevayoga.net.SevaYogaStudio,2213WealthySte220,East Grand Rapids.616-458-2541.Course in Miracles taught by Cindy Berry-Addis-6:00pm.TheHealingCenter.332S.Lincoln,Lakeview.989-352-6500.General Anxiety support group-7:00-8:30pm.Opentoindividualswhohaveanykindofanxietyproblemaswellastheirfriendsandfamilymembersmeets.FreeAnxietyResourceCenter,Inc.Grand Rapids.616-356-1614.anxietyresourcecenter.org

thursdayCancer Support Group -9:30-11:00amor7-8:30pm.1stThursdayeachmonth.Healinggroupforthosethathavehadacancerdiagnosisandarelookingforawaytoplacethisturningpointinthecontextofyourlife.Free.Bluebirdoffices,917W.SavidgeSt.#37,Spring Lake. ContactToniVanDykenwithquestions616-240-5808Complete Yoga -6:00-8:00pm.Fullyogapracticeofpranayama,theory,vinyasa,holdings,benefitsofposturesandmore. All levelswelcome.$15.SatyaYogaCenter,3385BlueStarHighway,Saugatuck.269-857-7289Awakened Women’s Support Group –6:00-8:30pm.Asafeandsacredsupportcircle.Getsupportinintegratingspiritual/personaldevelopment into your daily challenges.$10/meeting. Contact Dinah at [email protected] Hatha Yoga with Mitch Coleman – 6:15-7:30pm. Drop-ins welcome.VisitWhiteRiverYoga.comformoreinformation.ClassesmeetatWhiteRiverYogaStudio,8724FerrySt.Montague. 231-740-6662.Share and Care Meeting-7:00-9:00pm.St.Mary’sHealthCare.Byron Center. 616-685-3900.Anusara Yoga with Mimi Ray-L1.2(5:45-7:15pm)&L2(7:30-9pm)Practicebythelakeandfeelgreat!Movementprinciplesplayfullywovenwithphilosophyforafunandconnectedpractice.ExpressionsofGraceYoga,Rockford. 6163618580orwww.eogyoga.comGrand Rapids Buddhist Meditation Group-7:30-9:00pm.Forgroupsittingandwalkingmeditation followedbyabook study.Allwelcome.Instructionsprovidedtobeginners.SacredSpace.Grand Rapids. 616-452-2115.

fridayYoga-Intermediate –9:00am.Learnthebasics.Holdingposeslongerandmovingdeeperintoyourpracticeandawarenessofthecore.FormoreinformationvisitSmilingLotusYoga.comorcallSmilingLotusYoga,103E.LudingtonAve,Ludington.231-852-0849.

Kripalu Yoga with Marro Spehar-7:00pm.Gentle/Moderate.Drop-inswelcome.Fordetailsvisitsevayoga.net.SevaYogaStudio,2213.WealthySte220,East Grand Rapids. 616-458-2541.

saturdayGentle Hatha Yoga with Mitch Coleman–9:00-10:15am&10:30-11:45am.Drop-inswelcome.VisitWhiteRiverYoga.comformoreinformation.ClassesmeetatWhiteRiverYogaStudio,8724FerrySt.Montague. 231-740-6662.Sweetwater Local Foods Market-9:00am-1:00pm.IndoorsatHackleyHealthattheLakes,HarveySt.1/2MileSouthofLakesMall.ExitUS31atPontalunaRd.Muskegon.Fall Detoxification Class-7:00-8:30pm.LedbyDr.DanGleason,this4-weekclasscovershowtosafelydetoxandproviderelieffromdigestiveproblems,headaches,jointpain,weightgain,allergiesandrashes.$50.C3Exchange,225E.Exchange,Spring Lake. 616-846-5410.Anusara Yoga with Mimi Ray-8:30-9:45pm.CertifiedAnusaraTeacher.Allwelcome.Startyourweekendright!ArtisticExpressionfromtheinsideout.Therapeutic,fun,connectingonalllevels.SevaYoga.East Grand Rapids.

emPloymeNt oPPortuNitiesWanted: Massage Therapist -balanced,expe-riencedandmature.Candodeeptissuemassageand energy work required. Alternative health-carecenterlocatedinMuskegon.Emailresumetosacredflames@rocketmail.com

for sAleLog Cabin Home-2Bedrooms,1BathonCam-pauKettleLakeinCaledonia.Plentyofstorageinthenew4StallGarage.Asking$175,000.Lo-catedat881066thStreetSEinCaledonia.Callfordetails616-292-6762.

oPPortuNitiesFacility Kitchens isacommercialrentalkitchenlocatedinLowell.Nowopen!Itisacommercialfacilitydesignedfortheprofessional,resalechefandalsoavailabletothesimplysocialchef.Checkoutthewebsite,www.FacilityKitchens.com,formoreinformation.

Opportunity is availablefor2stylistsand1MassageTherapistatMidwestMassage&SalonIIlocatedat6883CascadeRdinGrandRapids.Arelaxingatmosphereyouwouldbeproudtobringyourclients.Offeringhealth,well-being&beauty.Call616-949-4000,[email protected] PUBLISHINGNATURAL AWAKENINGS MAGAZINES–ForsaleinAustin, TX;Ventura, CA; Roanoke,VA;Manhattan,NY;Lexington,KY;andPensacola,FL.Callfordetails239-530-1377.

Products“Clearline” Herbal Formulas. www.Future-BodySciences.com 231-652-3171 or [email protected],MI.

Presenting the world’s first extensive range ofinternationallycertifiedorganicskin,baby,hair,body,cosmetic,oral,homecleaning,andnutritionalproducts.Unrivaledpurity,potency&freshness.MiessenceCertifiedOrganicsIndependentRepresentative.www.thisisliving.miessence.com

sPAce for reNtLarge Space to Share with Nonprofit, Mon-roe NW Area in a large warehouse buildingwith 3,000 sq. ft on main level with separateentrance, accessible with multi-use areas; uti-lize anoffice and share space for programsormeetings.Utilitiesandoutsideparkingincluded.Rent isnegotiable.ContactRev.MaryMartin.616-791-8818

classifiedsTo place a Classified Listing: Email listing to [email protected]. Must be received by the 15th of the month prior to publica-tion. $1.00 per word; must be pre-paid.


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

BuildiNG/coNstructioN

dlH coNcePtsKyle HassLicensed Residential Home [email protected]

Locally owned and operated.Specializing in buildingcustom livable and affordablenew homes that are EnergyEfficient and utilizeGreen Building practices.Unmatched efficiencies anduncompromisingquality.

cHiroPrActic cAre

dyNAmic fAmily cHiroPrActicDr. Ronson Dykstra & Dr. Ronda VanderWall4072 Chicago Drive, Grandville616-531-6050

Family owned and operated in theheart of downtown Grandville,Dynamic Family Chiropracticfocuses on lifestyle improvementsthrough living a maximized life.A safe and natural approach tohealth through the combination ofexercise, nutrition, detoxificationandchiropracticcare.

scHAfer cHiroPrActicANd HeAliNG sPADr. Andrew Schafer 1801 Breton SE Grand Rapids, MI 49506 616-301-3000

Treating musculoskeletal conditions,and specializing in back pain, sciaticaneckpain,andheadaches.Alsoofferingphysicaltherapy,massagetherapy,andpostural awareness. Most insurancesaccepted. Breton Village area. www.grchirospa.com.See ad page 7.

clotH diAPersBootyful BABy BoutiQue, llcAllendale, Michigan 616-892-1525www.bootyfulbabyboutique.com

Modern cloth diapers that areproudly made in Michigan. Ahealthy choice for your baby,your wallet and our Earth. Welove to help parents make theswitch!

thenaturaldirectory

ACUPUNCTUREsAmir rAJANi, mdMedical Acupuncturist mmpc Internal Medicine890 S. Washington, Ste. 130 Holland: 616-396-1907www.mmpc.com

Medical acupuncture can be aneffectivetreatmentformanychronicconditions, including pain, fatigue,depression and anxiety. SamirRajani, MD is certified in medicalacupunctureandpracticesatmmpcInternalMedicine.

ALTERNATIVE HEALTHPRACTITIONER

out of tHe Blue iNcNancy Despres RN, MBE351 Cummings NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49534616-453-4215www.OutoftheBlueInc.net *UPDATED*

OutoftheBluehelpsfindalternativeways for achieving optimal healththrough the use of homeopathy,enzyme therapy nutritionalsupplements & hair mineralanalysis.NowcarryinghomeopathicHcgdropsforweightloss.

AYURVEDAHeAltHy weiGHt lossContact Chad at [email protected] online at: myzconnection.myzrii.com

Transform yourself with a lifestyleapproach to healthy weightmanagement. Increase immunity,improve digestion, protect againstinflammation & stress. Start yourpath to a complete mind-bodytransformation with all-naturalproducts. Transformation withAyurvedicnutrition.

BODYWORKwHolistic KiNesioloGyHeAltH services, llcBarbara Zvirzdinis, WK, CMT616-581-3885www.WKHealthServices.com

Certified Massage Therapistoffering Therapeutic & LaStoneMassage. Certified WholisticKinesiologist, ReconnectionHealing Practitioner, CertifiedHerbalist, Certified AcutonicsPractitioner,CertifiedReflexologist,and a Certified Matrix EnergeticsPractitioner.See ad, page 19.

coloN HydrotHerAPyHArmoNy ‘N HeAltHMary De Lange, CCT., CMT.1003 Maryland Av., N.E.Grand Rapids616-456-5033www.harmonynhealth.net

Certified therapist since 1991offeringcolontherapyinasterileand professional environment.Usingaholisticapproachcolonicsrelieve constipation, diarrhea,gas, bloat, poor digestion, backpain,bodyodorandmore.See ad page 21.

tHe Body ceNter-HollANdMarcella Clark, CMMT, CCHT650 Riley Street , Ste AHolland, MI 49424616-834-2596

Gentle, effective and professionalcolon cleansing designed todrop toxin levels and improvenutrient absorption. Get relieffrom bloating and constipation,fatigue and arthritis pain. Warm,secure environment. www.TheBodyCenter.us.

triciA e. GosliNGHolistic Care Approach3368 Beltline Ct NE616-481-9074

Offering an advanced client-centered dimension ofcolonics: gentle, safe andeffective. Eliminate toxins andenhance well-being. 15 yearsof experience. Also offeringQuantum Biofeedback sessions.I-ACTcertifiedInstructor.

couNseliNGJANice de lANGe, PH.d 1514 Wealthy St. SE Ste 260, Grand [email protected]

A mind-body-spirit approach fortraumaandabuserecovery,PTSD,low sense of self-worth, panic& phobias, anxiety, depression,relationships. EMDR & Energyinterventions.

deNtistry / HolisticdeNtAl HeAltH & wellNess ceNterDr. Kevin P. Flood DDS4990 Cascade Rd SE, Grand Rapids616-974-4990www.FloodTheDentist.com

Comprehensive Holistic DentalServices–AmalgamRemoval&Replacement. Bio-Compatible,metal-free materials, Low-Dose Digital X-Rays, GentleAnesthesia.See ad page 48.


HeAltH educAtioN ceNtertHe wellNess forum830 Forest Hill AveGrand Rapids, MI 49546616-942-7907www.WellnessForum.com

Educational programs forpersonalhealthimprovement- Workplace wellnessprograms - WellnessForum Foundation focusedon school nutrition andchildren’s health - Nationalconferences.

HeAltH food storesAffordABle NutritioNJoel D. Manning, CNC®, Owner7493 Cottonwood Drive, Jenison616-667-1346

Affordable, natural ap-proachto better health. Certifiednutritionalconsultant.20yearsexperience.Offeringselecthighqualityvitaminsandnutritionalsupplements. Weight loss,cleansing, sports nutrition andmore!Seniordiscounts.

HeAltH HuttGrand Haven - 616-846-3026Muskegon - 231-739-1568North Muskegon - 231-744-0852www.HealthHutt.net

Natural & organic foods,vitamins & herbs, sportsnutrition,glutenfreefoods,books, natural body careand more. Open 7 days aweek.See ad, page 19.

utoPiAN mArKetPlAce8832 Water St., Montague231-894-9530www.UtopianMarketplace.com

Our friendly, knowledgeable staffprovides a personalized shoppingexperience.Wehavealargeselectionof gluten-free foods, clothing,jewelry, herbs, supplements, localfoods, gifts and more. Open Miceventseverymonth.See ad, page 5.

Holistic HeAltH ceNters

tHe HeAliNG ceNter352 S. Lincoln Ave, Lakeview989-352-6500www.TheHealingCenterOfLakeview.com

Naturopathic / HolisticPractitioners. Licensed PhysicianAssistant,CertifiedNaturalHealthProfessionals.Privateconsultations.Counseling & Classes. Bloodtyping, acupressure, emotionalrelease,iridology,homeopathyandmore.See ad, page 15.

HomeoPAtHyBoB HuttiNGA352 S. Lincoln Ave, Lakeview989-352-6500www.TheHealingCenterOfLakeview.com

APhysicianassistantsince1976,specializing in naturopathic andhomeopathiccare.Also,certifiedSilvaMethodinstructor.See ad, page 15.

HyPNotHerAPyBranden wilson, BAs, cHt, cPNlPCertified Hypnotherapist,American Board of Hypnotherapy Certified Practitioner NLP, Society of [email protected]

Your phobia gone in an houror less or its FREE. Eliminateunwantedhabitsandcompulsions.Resolve inner conflicts, changeyourlimitingbeliefs,andachieveyour goals. Transform guilt,shame,andgrief.

iNteGrAtive mediciNesHoreliNe ceNterfor iNteGrAtive mediciNeSouth Haven Community Hospital950 S. Bailey Ave. South Haven, MI 49090269-639-2833

Alternativetherapiesareusedinconjunction with conventionalmedicine to balance yourmind,bodyandspirit.Wealsooffer laser hair removal, laservein reduction and skin careservices.See ad page 12.

KiNesioloGywHolistic KiNesioloGy HeAltH services, llcBarbara Zvirzdinis, WK, CMT616-581-3885www.WKHealthServices.com

Certified Wholistic Kinesiologist,Certified Massage Therapist,ReconnectionHealingPractitioner,Certified Herbalist, CertifiedAcutonics Practitioner, CertifiedReflexologist, and a CertifiedMatrix Energetics Practitioner.Specializing in muscle testing,massage, energy medicine,nutritionalcounseling,lecturesandclasses.See ad page 19.

dysleXiA

New cHAPter leArNiNGSandra McPhallLicensed Davis Dyslexia Correction Provider616-534-1385www.newchapterlearning.net

Providing the Davis DyslexiaCorrection® Program that hasgrowntobethemostwidelyusedprogram in the world correctingapproximately 20,000 dyslexicsperyearwitha97%successrate.

eNerGy HeAliNGAmA deus®Beth Cosmos Grand Rapids: 616-648-3354 www.Ama-Deusenergy.com

AmaDeushealingenergymethodisahandmediatedtechniquealignedwithlove. The energy helps to enhanceone’s own and others growth andawarenessorphysicalandemotionalhealing.See ad page 33.

mAtriX eNerGeticsBarbara Zvirzdinis, WK, CMT616-581-3885www.WKHealthServices.com

MatrixEnergeticsisasystemusedtoheal,transformandcreatenewpossibilities in your life. Usingprinciplesofquantumphysicsandsubtle energy Matrix Energeticshelps you to shift into a morebalancedstate.See ad page 19.

esseNtiAl oilsBe youNG esseNtiAl oilsClara Vander Zouwen616-698-6148www.NaturalHealth4Today.com

Offering Be Youngtherapeutic essential oils,MASAJI whole food drink,Organic meal replacementshakes,andMineralmake-up.Services: Ionic detoxing footbaths,PhysicalandEmotionalbalancing, biofeedbackreadings.

HeAveNly HeAliNGs Holistic HeAltH servicesJodi Jenks - Reiki Master4434 Knapp St NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49525www.heavenlyhealings.org

I am a Reiki Master that also doesEssential Oil therapies includingRaindropTherapy,EmotionalClearingand Spiritual Journey work. Call oremail for appointments or questions,616-443-4225 or [email protected].


mAssAGe tHerAPyscHAfer cHiroPrActicANd HeAliNG sPASheri Beth Schafer, CMT, Reiki Master1801 Breton SE Grand Rapids, MI 49506616-301-3000

Wehavemultiplecertifiedmassagetherapists offering relaxation(Swedish), deep tissue massage,and medical massage. We alsooffer Reiki, chakra balancing,and Ayurvedic bodywork. BretonVillagearea.www.grchirospa.com.See ad pages 7 & 30.

midwiferyBirtH soNG midwifery servicesYolanda Visser CM, CPMGrand Rapids 616-458-8144www.BirthSongGR.com

Homebirth services since1982. Committed tofacilitating natural birth,bonding,strengtheningthefamily, informed activeparticipation, and lendingdignitytowomenthroughtheirbirthingexperience.

full circle midwiferyservice, iNc.Patrice Bobier CM, CPMHesperia - 231-861-2234 www.FullCircleMidwifery.com

In private practice since1982 - specializing inhomebirth. Over 1200births attended. Offeringmidwifery care thatmaintainsafamily-centeredsafe birth experience.Empoweringwomentostayhealthy during pregnancy,give birth naturally andparentinthebestways.

Home BirtH PArtNers, llcSusan Wente, CNM, Dr. PH231-652-3247www.HomeBirthworks.comThis regions only Certified Nurse Midwife with32yearsexperience–over3000birthsattended.Providing pre-natal, home and hospital birthsand postpartum care. Gynecological and Doulaservicesavailable.

multiPle sclerosis

AmANdA GeertsHealth Coach616-502-2707www.amandageerts.com

Get support to take controlof your health and your MS.Amanda Geerts receivedher Health Coach training atthe Institute for IntegrativeNutritioninNewYorkCity.See ad page 21.

reiKi

HAeleN Holistic treAtmeNtsConnie Jean Cunningham www.haelenholistic.com616-446-6906

Certified Usui Reiki Master andKaruna®Reiki.Offeringprofessionalreiki treatments, classes, personalinstruction and guidance. Specializedtreatmentareasincludechemotherapysupport, PTSD, phantom limb pain,stress,andspiritualexpansion.

reiKi HAusPaula Bojsen Holland: 616-392-1138www.ReikiHaus.comOffering quality Reiki classes & treatments ataffordable prices. Certified Usui Reiki MasterTeacher&GendaiReikiShihan.Alllevels,ReikiMaster classes and Gendai Reiki Gokukaiden.LearnpureJapaneseReiki.

retreAt ceNtertHe leAveN ceNterLyons, Michigan989-855-2606www.leaven.org

AplaceofbeautyonthebanksoftheGrandRiverwhereyoucanfindrestandnourishmentforyourbodyandspirit.Offeringworkshops,retreats,andrentalspaceyear-round.

scHool/educAtioNNAturoPAtHic iNstitute of tHerAPies & educAtioN503 E. Broadway St Mt. Pleasant, MI. 48858989-773-1714www.nite-mtp.com

Educational Programs: Natural Health 1-4Years,BirthAssistant6Months(1weekendpermonth),MassageTherapy1Year(2weekendspermonth),IndividualClassesavailable.15yearsofexcellence.See ad page 47.

sPirituAl trAvelBArBArA lee, PilGrim sPirit toursbarbaralee13@gmail.com616-502-2078www.pilgrimspirittours.com

Pilgrim Spirit Tours is offering aTibet/Yunnan/Minority CulturesPilgrimageApril12-28,2011.Costis $4960 excluding internationalairfare. Minimum 6 Maximum 12participants.$100refundabledeposittosecureyourspot.

sustAiNABle

desiGN ceNter

edeN eNviroNmeNtsDenise Hopkins, AIA, LEED AP401 Hall St. SW Suite 231 Grand Rapids 616-956-5000www.EdenEnvironments.com

Enrich your home and work environmentwith beautiful, healthy,sustainable design andproducts. Architecture,interior and landscapedesign, flooring, paint,cabinets, counters,furniture, accessories.Styledbynature,designedtonurture.

wAterBirtHsHoreliNe’s womeN’s ceNter At soutH HAveNcommuNity HosPitAlEva Fronk, CNM and Mercedes Moran, CNM950 S. Bailey Ave. South Haven, MI 49090269-639-2720

Offering the only water birthing program inSouthwest Michigan. Our Certified Nurse

Midwives assist the motherduring water birth delivery, incollaboration & consultationwith our obstetricians. Calltoday to learn more. See ad page 6.

Naturopathy(Each year 600 hours)

Natural Health Educator .......................1st Year Natural Health Th erapist ......................2nd Year Natural Health Practitioner ................. 3rd Year Certifi ed Naturopath .............................4th Year

4th Year Graduates are Eligible for Doctor of Naturopathy National Test and Title

Massage Th erapy Th erapeutic Bodywork Practitioner ..1 Year

Holistic Labor ProgramDoula.......6 Months

All Classes Meet On WeekendsFri. 5 - 9 p.m., and Sat. & Sun. 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Naturopaths - 1 per month • Massage - 2 per month

Individual Classes:• Herbology • Aromatherapy • Nutrition

• Live Food Preparation • Light Healing Touch• Refl exology • Homeopathy • And More!

503 E. Broadway • Mt. Pleasant, Michigan • (989) 773-1714www.nite-mtp.com

Mt. Pleasant is 90 minutes North East of Grand RapidsAccredited by the American Naturopathic Medical Association

15 Years of Excellence


Naturopathy(Each year 600 hours)

Natural Health Educator .......................1st Year Natural Health Th erapist ......................2nd Year Natural Health Practitioner ................. 3rd Year Certifi ed Naturopath .............................4th Year

4th Year Graduates are Eligible for Doctor of Naturopathy National Test and Title

Massage Th erapy Th erapeutic Bodywork Practitioner ..1 Year

Holistic Labor ProgramDoula.......6 Months

All Classes Meet On WeekendsFri. 5 - 9 p.m., and Sat. & Sun. 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Naturopaths - 1 per month • Massage - 2 per month

Individual Classes:• Herbology • Aromatherapy • Nutrition

• Live Food Preparation • Light Healing Touch• Refl exology • Homeopathy • And More!

503 E. Broadway • Mt. Pleasant, Michigan • (989) 773-1714www.nite-mtp.com

Mt. Pleasant is 90 minutes North East of Grand RapidsAccredited by the American Naturopathic Medical Association

15 Years of Excellence


Documents

Natural Awakenings November 2010