natural awakenings magazine december 2010

1natural awakenings December 2010

HEALTHY LIVING HEALTHY PLANET

feel goodlive simplylaugh more

FREE

FUN RITUALS

To EnhanceYour Holidays

HOMEMADE HOLIDAYS

Do It Yourself This Year

Really Good

RAW DESSERTS

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

2 West Michigan Edition NaturalWestMichigan.com

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


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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

contents

10 10 globalbriefs

11 ecobriefs

13 healthbriefs

18 healingways

20 fitbody

22 consciouseating

28 naturalpet

32 inspiration

34 greenliving

40 healthykids

11 15 SEVEN WAYS FROM SUNDAY by Lisa Marshall

18 GRIEVING DURING THE HOLIDAYS by David Kessler

20 PRAYER WORKOUTS A Program that Transforms Exercise into a Platform for Spiritual Growth by April Thompson

22 EXCEPTIONAL ENDINGS Really Good Raw Desserts by Judith Fertig

28 PRESENTS FOR PETS Healthy, Natural Holiday Treats by Gail Condrick

34 HOMEMADE HOLIDAYS I’m Dreaming of a GREEN Christmas… by Brita Belli

40 KID-CENTERED CEREMONIES Shared Family Rituals Deepen Bonds and Make Memories by Charlotte Eulette

15

13

28

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.

40


letterfrompublishers

This month’s theme is, appropriately, Awakening Consciousness. We are

collectively coming to a crucial era on Earth when our quality of life, and yes, our very survival, demands that humanity wakes up to tackle the troubling changes happening in our world. Choosing to ignore an environmental or social justice issue because you don’t think it will affect you is no longer an option.

Recently, we attended the Bioneers Conference in Traverse City (glbconference.org), which proved to be a major turning point for us. It was the best conference we have ever attended, and we recommend that you mark your calendar to also attend next year’s conference, set for October

14 to 16, 2011. We’ll see you there. What we learned that conference weekend has made us hunger to do more for our planet. It also showed us how many people here in West Michigan are making a constructive difference and how much people want to educate themselves more about key actionable issues. A big thanks goes to the Bioneers for all that they do for Mother Earth and those who live here.

As soon as we get the December issue into your hands, we are planning to take a much needed two-week vacation. It will be the first time since starting our Natural Awakenings journey that we will be able to totally get away. We feel like two kids preparing to visit Disney World for the first time. We are both so excited and blessed for this opportunity to relax and rejuvenate before returning to close out 2010 in high spirits. Please note that our office will be closed from November 25 through December 13.

Holidays present special opportunities to exercise conscientious discretion as to what we are purchasing, the way we wrap gifts, the foods we plan to prepare and most importantly, the kindness, love and peace we offer to all mankind. For example, instead of mailing traditional greeting cards, we have decided to call loved ones with whom visits are too few and far between. We figure if we make one or two calls a day between Thanksgiving and New Year’s, catching up should be easy to do. We realized that we have not spoken with some family members and friends in years, and hope that they find our visit meaningful. More, maybe they’ll in turn be prompted to reconnect with other special people in their lives. Who knows, maybe this will start a new tradition.

Have a joyous holiday season,

Amy and Kyle

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

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newsbriefs

Keeping Michigan Waters SafeOne of the easiest and

most important things we can do to help keep the waters of Michigan clean and improve our environment is to keep unused/unwanted drugs from entering our water! Woodpointe Pharmacy is taking part in a drug dis-posal program called Yellow Jug Old Drugs. This is a free program from the Great Lakes Clean Water Organization (a non-profit organization) designed to collect and safely dispose of unused, unwanted or expired drugs. The Mission Statement of the Great Lakes Clean Water Organization is: “To promote the collection and disposal of unused/unwanted drugs in a safe and approved manner. This will keep harmful effects of drugs out of ground water, surface water and municipal water systems in Michigan and the Great Lakes region.” Thank you for helping keep Michigan Waters Safe.

For more information contact Woodpointe Pharmacy 2500 East Beltline Ave SE in Grand Rapids at 616-949-4499 & visit www.WoodpointeRx.com.

Basic AstrologyMary McGuire, a second-generation astrologer, sheds light

on the world of astrology. She has brought awareness of astrology and its usefulness to many. Her work has inspired others to make outstanding life changes, which have encour-aged them to their natural, spiritual path of self-healing. On day one of her class, Saturday, January 15th you will learn the basics about astrology. Mary will be teaching about the different signs of the zodiac, the planets and the houses of an astrology chart. On the second day, Saturday, February 12th, you will learn how planets aspect each other and what it means. Mary will explain the key points to interpreting astrology charts, plus much more. On the third, Saturday, March 12, you will apply all of the knowledge that you have learned and read charts in a workshop atmosphere. Mary will help you interrupt charts and test your skills as an astrologer. Join her in a three-day class, which includes your individual charts. Class size is limited. Latest sign-up date is the Tuesday before the class. You must provide your Date, Time, and City & State of birth for your birth chart. Classes will be held at The Healing Center in Lakeview from 10:00am to 4:00pm. Only $50 per day with a non refundable deposit of $10 per day required at registration.

To schedule, call 989-352-6500 or email Mary at [email protected].

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


Certified Nurse Midwife Susan Wente, CNM, Dr.Ph. has joined Spectrum Health Gerber Memorial Obstetrics and Gynecology. Susan’s approach to childbirth includes listening to each patient’s individual vision and working with her to customize an approach to childbirth that is uniquely her own.

She works with each woman to create:• A relationship of trust• A birth plan that supports individual choice• A joyous, compassionate birth experience• Treatment and health care support throughout a woman’s life stages

Susan also has the complete support of the three excellent OB/GYN physicians on her team, Melissa Bayne, DO, Tami Michele, DO and James Patenge, DO. Most insurance plans accepted.

Call 231.924.1212 for an appointment, or visit us at gerberhospital.org/html/obgyn.html.

You are here. So are we.

Welcome Susan Wente, CNM, Dr. PH, Certified Nurse Midwife

Childbirth Your Way

Autoimmune Disease Support More Americans suffer from autoim-

mune disease than cancer or heart disease. One in 12 Americans suffers from multiple sclerosis, lupus, Type 1 diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, or one of the hundred other chronic autoimmune illnesses that are part of today’s autoimmune epidemic. Amanda Geerts knows firsthand what it’s like to live with an autoimmune disease. Her own Multiple Sclerosis diagnosis inspired her to search for new ways to be

healthy. “My MS diagnosis was one of the best things that ever happened to me,” says Amanda Geerts. “With the changes I’ve made in my life because of it I feel more vibrant than ever.” Amanda supports others with autoimmune diseases through her health coaching. “A health coach helps people set and meet lasting goals,” Amanda says. “As your health coach, I’m the person who always has your back and is cheering you on.” Amanda supports people to make simple and positive changes in their diet and lifestyle to have more energy, alleviate their autoimmune symptoms, and live their healthiest lives.

For more information visit www.AmandaGeerts.com. Contact her at [email protected]. See ad page 21 & 47.

Massage Therapy at Semlow Peak Performance ChiropracticSemlow Peak Performance Chiropractic is now offering

massage therapy! Tanya Daniels, a graduate of Baker College of Muskegon, offers Swedish, deep tissue, pregnancy, sports and occupational massage as well as chakra balancing, and various stretching techniques. Tanya also works throughout the community and will come to your place of business to perform on-site chair massages for customer and employee appreciation. With the holidays quickly approaching why not give the gift of massage to that special someone. Special for December: Purchase a gift

certificate for a 1 hour massage for $30.00 and receive an energy balancing for free, a $25 value. Contact Tanya to schedule your massage today.

Call 616-846-5000 or visit Semlow Peak Performance Chiropractic at 326 North Ferry Street, Grand Haven. See ad page 31.

Amanda Geerts

Tanya Daniels


The Power of Archetypes Workshop Di s c o v e r h o w

knowing and working with your Ar-chetypes profoundly shifts your personal or professional life and spiritual practice. These Archetypes, or Isthadevatas, reside deep into our collective unconscious. On December 5th from 2:00-5:00pm, Dr. Manoj will bring in statues and relate the symbolisms of Hindu & Buddhist deities to archetypes within us during this unique workshop. Discover how these ancient teachings have practical relevance to your life in today’s society, bringing peace of mind as well as uncovering our underlying common spirit. Philosophy Lecture with Mantras and Meditation. Dr. Manoj uses humor, stories and everyday experiences in his talks on Mythology, Vedanta and Tantra. Indian-born Manoj has given Keynote lectures at Yoga festivals and teaches at Yoga Journal conferences. He is a scientist with a doctorate in Chemical Physics from Cornell University. His calling in life is to assimilate and teach spiritual practice and philosophy through the symbolisms of Yogic Hindu art which he now imports from India. Workshop cost is $30 and everyone is welcome.

Visit From the Heart Yoga & Tai Chi Center, 714 Wealthy St in Grand Rapids or call 616-336-9642. www.fromtheheartyoga.com. See ad page 16

Dreaming of a Green ChristmasThis season, Give Natu-

ral, Give Organic, Give Miessence Products. The Holiday Season is a wonder-

ful time to show your love and appreciation to family and friends through heartfelt gifts that benefit them and don’t harm the environment. How green is a Miessence product? It all starts outside, in various parts of the world, in organic soil that is lovingly and respectfully nurtured. A plant grows in the fresh air and sunshine, is harvested and gently refined through cold pro-cessing, and shipped to the Miessence warehouse. It is then formulated on site, mixed or hand-blended with other pure, vital and certified organic ingredients, in small batches to guarantee freshness and potency. No artificial, lab-generated, potentially health damaging emulsifiers, stabilizers, synthetic preservatives, or fragrances is ever used. Instead, the plants’ innate properties contain these elements. The potent, power-ful, health and beauty promoting formulas are then packaged in recyclable bottles and packaging, and sent to you! In addition, we are now the world’s first certified organic skin care, personal care and nutritional products company to be carbon negative! Sending a gift e-certificate from a company that is certi-fied organic, fair-trade and green is a gift to the environment as well. Use the security, convenience and comfort of your Miessence shopping cart; you can cross names off your gift-giving list with just the click of a mouse! No traffic, No lines, No mall madness, No paranoia over finding that perfect gift.

Order online at www.thisisliving.miessence.com. Contact Tarra Thompson, Independent Representative at [email protected]

Holiday Stress ReliefIf you are feeling overwhelmed during the busy holiday

season, Grand Rapids Center for the Healing Arts has the cure for you. We are offering a $110 detoxifying spa massage for just $55. Start with a detoxifying seaweed gel application as you are wrapped in warm blankets, with a scalp massage as you de-stress. Then have a relaxing aroma therapeutic


massage or cellulite-fighting oil massage and leave ready to face the world with a healthy glow. This makes a wonder-ful gift and you may purchase this special offer between December 1, 2010 & January 1, 2011.

Call the Center at 616-649-7011 for information. Grand Rapids Center for the Healing Arts, 3160-C Breton SE in Grand Rapids. See ad page 31.

New to the 360 TeamAmber Sackett is the latest

addition to 360 Massage & Holistic Care. She graduated with honors from Irene’s Myomassol-ogy Institute specializing in Thera-peutic Medical Massage. Amber’s favorite modalities are Sports Mas-sage, Myofascial Massage, Aroma-

therapy and Lymphatic Massage. “I believe that improving circulation and joint mobilization is a large aspect of a healthy being”, says Sackett. She is very passionate about nutrition and plans of perusing a deeper education in the field. Join 360 Massage in welcoming Amber to the team! You may contact Amber at 734-748-7011.

360 Massage & Holistic Care, 1514 Wealthy St Se Ste 218 in Grand Rapids. Contact them at 616-242-0034 or [email protected]. See ad page 30.

Fitness Guru Invents New State of the Art App Personal trainer, author, speaker, and network marketer,

Robert Jay Martin has invented a new state of the art app called the iLog1©. The iLog1, is now on sale in the iTunes store for $2.99. It allows users to digitally document and track their diet, workouts, sleep habits, house/school work, mood and countless other types of information. It is the first app of its kind available for use with the iPod, iPad, and iPhone. The additional charting capabilities of the iLog1 help to reveal trends in user’s overall health and fitness, including their sleep patterns, and their BMI (Body Mass Index). The app also functions as a chronological log

where users can record almost anything they desire. The adaptability of the iLog1 allows the program to be used by many different segments of the population including but not limited to, cyclists, runners, walkers, coaches, sports psycholo-gists, weight lifters, dieticians, swimmers, therapists, counselors, doctors, and personal trainers. Large corporations can use the iLog1 to monitor employees participating in health incentive programs. It is also a valuable tool for individuals looking to monitor their weight loss and/or begin exercising.

If you would like to learn more about Robert or his new app visit, www.fityouwillmakeyousucceed.com/iLogapp.html.

Light of Day Organics® Opens New Farm Retail Store OutletLight of Day Organics®, a Leelanau County-based Organic,

Biodynamic, and Fair Trade Certified loose leaf tea company, is pleased to an-nounce the open-ing of its new farm retail store outlet at 3502 E. Traverse Highway. The new farm retail store outlet is now open to the public for tea cuppings, farm and facility tours, and retail shop-ping Thursday through Saturday from 10am to 5:30pm, or by appointment. The store opening is a defining moment for Angela Macke, the founder of Light of Day Organics. “Anyone who has started a business knows how much hard work, determination, positive thinking and organization is required,” said Angela Macke, a Registered Nurse and a Horticulturalist. This family-owned certified organic farm and facility is where all the magic happens: the frequent harvests, drying of their flowers, herbs, fruit, roots, vegetables, barks and berries, and then blending and packaging. All of the products are original Artisanal recipes hand-blended by Angela in small batches in their licensed sustainably built commercial kitchen.

Light of Day Organics offers a diverse online catalogue at www.lightofdayorganics.com. Contact Angela Macke at 231-228-7234 or at [email protected].


Expanding ServicesKen Porter, Certified Somatic Therapist, has recently been

certified in Hakomi Body-Centered Therapy. He is now providing Hakomi Therapy, Mas-sage, Myofascial Release and CranioSacral Therapy in his private practice, Body and Soul Somatic Therapy located at The Fountain Hill Center, 534 Foun-tain St NE in Grand Rapids.

Visit www.BodyandSoulGR.com or call 616-262-3848. Learn more about Hakomi at www.hakomi.org

December’s Amateur Photo Contest Winner...Avery Wedderof Cascade Township

It looks as though the little girl is

trying to awaken her prince within this frog. How fitting for our Awakening C o n s c i o u s n e s s theme this month.

Congratulations Avery you will be receiving a $25 gift certificate from Affordable Nutrition and thank you to Affordable Nutrition for donating this month’s prize.

Affordable Nutrition’s ad can be found on page 46.


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

globalbriefs

Call to ActionFreedoms Foster World PeaceHuman Rights Day on December 10 honors local and global activities working to initiate, strengthen and sustain the civil, political, social, economic and cultural rights and freedoms enumerated in the Universal Declaration of Hu-man Rights of 1948. Such principles are considered the bed-rock of peaceful and just societies. President Jimmy Carter sums up the need: “We can choose to alleviate suffering. We can choose to work together for peace. We can make these changes—and we must.” The United Nations Human Rights Council, created in 2006, comprises 47 member states responsible for promoting and protecting human rights around the world. The protection of fundamental human rights was a cornerstone in the es-tablishment of the United States and remains a central goal of U.S. foreign policy. This country understands that the existence of human rights helps to secure peace, deter aggression, promote rule of law, combat crime and corruption, strengthen democracies and prevent humanitarian crises. In 2048: Humanity’s Agreement to Live Together, author Kirk Boyd maintains that “Peace and prosperity can be attained through the realization of five basic fundamental freedoms for all people: freedom of speech, freedom of religion, freedom from want, freedom for the environment and freedom from fear.” These establish a framework within which other necessary rights can flourish. “That struggle,” declared Robert F. Kennedy, “…will be won by action, by those who commit their every resource of mind and body to the education and improvement and help of their fellow person.”

Take action at RFKCenter.org, SpeakTruth.org and CarterCenter.org.

Extraterrestrial ExplorersSearching for a New Earth“By 2020, or even a little before that, we’ll know if there are other Earths out there,” states Laurance Doyle, Ph.D. The astrophysicist is part of the NASA Kepler space-craft science team monitoring 170,000 of the brightest stars in our galactic neigh-borhood based on the recent discovery of numerous planets around stars other than the Sun. Launched in 2009, they’re watching for a pattern of three small, annual

reductions in brightness that would indicate an Earth-sized planet orbiting another star.

“If we don’t find any Earths… then we can say, ‘Wow, Earth is really rare. We need to take care of it,’” says Doyle, who is also a principal investigator at the SETI Institute and president of the nonprofit Planet Quest. If the scientists do find another Earth-like planet, the next step would be to search for signs of biological life by checking to see if free

oxygen is present in the atmosphere.

Sources: Principia Purpose and NASA.gov

World ReligionsSurvey Shows Americans are Religio-CentricThe role of religion as a social force of enduring significance in the modern world is recognized by American historians and sociolo-gists, according to studies published by the American Historic Association and Social Science Research Coun-cil. Yet, a new survey by the Pew Research Center’s Forum on Religion & Public Life indicates that Ameri-cans are generally less than knowl-edgeable about the core teachings, history and leading figures of major world religions. On average, Americans cor-rectly answered half of 32 questions in the survey. Atheists, agnostics, Jews and Mormons were among the highest-scoring groups, outperform-ing Catholics and both evangelical and mainline Protestants. At the same time, many Americans are devoted readers of scripture; 37 per-cent say they read the Bible or other holy scriptures at least once a week, not counting worship services. But Americans as a whole, or 70 per-cent, are much less inclined to read books or visit websites about other religions. Additional Pew data show that while most countries provide for religious freedom in their constitu-tions or laws, only a quarter actively respect this legal right. Sixty-four nations, or about one-third of the world’s countries, impose restrictions on religious practice.

Take a quiz at Features.PewForum.org/quiz/us-religious-knowledge.


ecobriefs

Undersea UniverseFirst Comprehensive Look at Marine Life Yields SurprisesThe results of a decade of discovery by 2,700 sci-entists from 80 nations in the first comprehensive Census of Marine Life detail the diversity, distribu-tion and abundance of ocean life. New technology “binoculars” provided an unprecedented picture of the world under the waves. Some 540 expeditions estimated diversity at 250,000 species, including 6,000 potentially new species. Researchers found living creatures everywhere, even under extreme conditions. The census affirms that we know less about the small than the large, and that by weight, up to 90 percent of marine life is microbial. It docu-

ments a changing ocean—richer in diversity, more connected through distribu-tion and movements, more impacted by humans and yet, less explored than we had known. It reveals long-term and widespread declines in marine life, but also resilience in areas where recovery is apparent. This baseline will help scientists forecast, measure and understand changes in the global marine environment and better inform the management and conserva-tion of its resources. The census’s legacy includes a promising heightened collabo-ration across borders.

Source: Origin.coml.org

10/10/10 ResultsAmerica’s White House Goes SolarPresident Obama has an-nounced the installation of so-lar panels and a solar hot water heater on the roof of his White House residence as part of a Department of Energy demon-stration project. Interestingly, the move comes after 350.org Founder Bill McKibben carted solar panels to Washington, D.C., in October, as part of his grassroots movement’s 10/10/10 Global Work Party on curbing climate change. The Washington Post reports that the panels were some of the same ones that were donated to Unity College in the 1990s after President Reagan had them removed from the White House and let federal renewable energy subsidies expire. President Carter had the original solar equipment installed in 1979, say-ing “A generation from now, this solar heater [behind me] can either be a curios-ity, a museum piece, an example of a road not taken, or it can be just a small part of one of the greatest and most exciting adventures ever undertaken by the American people.” Remarks McKibben: “If it has anything like the effect of the White House garden, it could be a trigger for a wave of solar installations across the country and around the world.”

Green GuidesUnited States Updates Rules for Green MarketingFollowing three public hearings, a period for public comment on the pro-posed document that ended December 10 and 35 months of development, the U.S. Federal Trade Commission will publish a much anticipated update to its original Green Guides. First pub-lished in 1992, the last update ap-peared in 1998. The guides comprise a common sense set of rules defining required sub-stantiation and disclaimers for the ex-plosion of evolving green claims made by marketers. Like its predecessors, the new edition will represent a helpful, if low, bar, intended to eliminate outright misrepresentations and fabrications. “The new guidelines [still] don’t re-ally keep up with the world of sustain-able business practices,” comments Joel Makower, executive editor of GreenBiz.com. Rather, they address a fraction of what companies are doing—the behind-the-scenes innovations that reduce use of water, energy and materi-als. While a step in the right direction, they have yet to provide, for example, guidance on reduced packaging or use of the words “sustainable” and “green.” Plus, they don’t yet address the potent eco-claims of cradle-to-cradle, biomim-icry and green chemistry. Makower observes that, instead of “greenwashing,” [making false claims or leveraging words like “natural” to intentionally mislead consumers], most companies today are engaging in ran-dom acts of greenness—tweaks to their products, facilities, policies or practices, rather than undergoing systemic change. While some are seriously changing their ways, for most companies and consum-ers, “going green,” notes Makower, means making a series of incremental changes that over time reduce their worst environmental impacts, while perhaps also garnering some PR points.


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.

There’s nothing sadder in this world than to awake Christmas morning and

not be a child.

~ Erma Bombeck

ecobriefs

Toy StorySustainable Toys are InWith Walmart, the biggest toy seller, now stocking its store shelves with more toys made from natural or recycled materials, industry analysts ex-pect other big retailers to follow. Reyne Rice, a trend specialist for the Toy Industry Association, told Reuters that about 25 percent of retail buyers at last year’s American International Toy Fair wanted to see and consider more eco-friendly products. Thus, the Toy Fair earlier this year featured a green pavilion, exclusively showcasing such toys for the first time. It’s a step toward propelling green toy sales toward an anticipated $1 billion market in the next five years, representing some 5 percent of

overall toy sales. While sustain-able toys tend to cost a bit more than traditional ones, many are

priced at less than $25 retail. Meanwhile, even though

many major manu-facturers aren’t yet on board, several are

making moves to green and reduce the amount of

packaging they use.

Sustainable LifestylesStudy Ranks Greenest StatesThe National Mar-keting Institute’s in-depth query of 3,000 consum-ers from varied demographic groups in the 25 largest U.S. states (by popu-lation), reveals where demand is greatest for everything green. Leading states, while not without flaws, are known for pioneering new environmental policies, having avid enthusiasts of outdoor activities and driving the market for green products. Research questions focused on the pro-portion of consumers who have purchased carbon offsets, organic foods, renew-able power and hybrid vehicles and those who compost, reuse grocery bags and donate money to environmental groups. Based on the prevalence of these characteristics, the top 10 greenest states are Washington, Colorado, Massachusetts, New York, California, Maryland, New Jersey, Minnesota, Michigan and Missouri. They are followed by Florida, Alabama, Wisconsin, Arizona and Texas.


healthbriefs

Cranberries’ Red PowerWhile the properties of cranberries for

warding off urinary tract infections have been well documented, research-ers at the Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) are now reporting a surprise finding that expands the red berries’ healing char-acteristics. They discovered that cranberry juice cocktail evidently helps block a strain of the bacteria Staphylococcus aureus from bringing on staph infections, which can range from minor skin rashes to seri-ous bloodstream problems. One particular

strain, Methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA), is a growing public health concern because it doesn’t respond to most antibiotics. To cause an infection, bacteria must first adhere to host tissue, and then gather in colonies to form a biofilm. In their study, the scientists found that in participants who had recently consumed cranberry juice, the ability of bacteria such as E. coli and S. aureus to form biofilms was significantly decreased, thus reducing the chance of contracting a urinary or staph infection. “We saw essen-tially no biofilm in the staph samples,” reports Terri Camesano, a WPI professor of chemical engineering.

Kindness is Contagious Pass it OnThe best gift of all can be as

simple as an act of kindness, generosity and cooperation. Even better, we hope that our good acts may spread. Now, a study published in the online edition of Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences provides the first laboratory evidence that kind behavior is indeed conta-gious and that it spreads from person to person. In short, the researchers found that when just a few people benefit from kindness, they pay it forward by helping others who were not originally involved. This cascade of co-operation can influence many known and unknown participants in a broadening social network. Here’s how researchers at the University of California, San Diego (UCSD), and Harvard University illustrated the principle: When one person gave money to help others in a public-goods game where people had the opportunity to cooperate, the recipients were more likely to give away their own money to other people in subsequent games. This type of behavior created a domino effect, in which one person’s gener-osity spread first to three people, then to nine and then to others in subsequent waves of the experiment. Better yet, the effect of being part of such a kindness circle persists, observes James Fowler, associate professor at UCSD, who co-led the study, observing, “You don’t go back to being your old selfish self.”

Holiday Binge AlertHere’s another reason to

take it easy at the holiday

buffet: A study published

in BioMed Central’s open

access journal Nutrition &

Metabolism has found that

just a four-week episode of

excessive food consump-

tion, accompanied by limited

physical activity, can have

long-term negative impacts

on our body weight and fat

storage, even after weight

initially gained is lost. Re-

search participants were in

their 20s and early 30s.

I will honor Christmas in

my heart, and try to keep

it all the year.

~ Charles Dickens


Cinnamon ExtractA favorite holiday spice might soon be

recognized as a natural medicine. An in-

vestigative study led by a U.S. Department

of Agriculture (USDA) chemist suggests

that a water soluble extract of natural cin-

namon, which contains antioxidant com-

pounds, could help reduce risk factors associated with diabetes

and heart disease. More research is needed.

Source: USDA/Agricultural Research Service, 2010

Tap Away Food CravingsDelectable morsels are traditionally hard to resist, but psychologists from

Griffith University’s School of Medicine, in Australia, show us how we can successfully reduce food cravings by using a technique they refer to as psychologi-cal acupuncture. It involves gently tapping on pressure points along the body’s energy meridians using the Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT), while focusing on

particular emotions and thoughts. “Participants in the trial were surprised by how quickly

the technique works—that it doesn’t take a lot of time to eliminate food cravings they may have had for many years,” notes Peta Stapleton, Ph.D. Food

cravings for sweets and salty snacks significantly lessened after just four, two-hour sessions, and were confirmed as being maintained at a six-month follow-up consultation.

Find more information on EFT, including certified practitioner resources by state, at

EFTUniverse.com. For a local practitioner please contact Janice De Lange at 616-451-3008, jdelange06@

yahoo.com or visit her website at janicedelange.com

Cocoa Takes the Pressure OffFifteen scientific studies attest to the good news: For

people with hypertension, eating dark chocolate or cocoa

can significantly dilate blood

vessels and lower blood pres-

sure. Researchers attribute the

positive effects to the flavanol

compounds in cocoa.

Source: BioMed Central Limited, 2010

coverartist

Sleigh Bellsby Richard De Wolfe

The Thousand Islands region of Ontario,

Canada, fostered a childhood filled with

adventure for Richard De Wolfe, who

still identifies strongly with rural life. The

forests, the fields and the mighty St. Law-

rence River made the wonders of nature

come alive for him.

A self-taught, professional freelance

artist who works in both illustration and

fine art, De Wolfe produced his first one-

man show at 18. It sold out, and he went

on to spend 25 years as an illustrator for

corporations such as General Motors,

Pepsi Cola, Sears, Labatt and Sony.

Of Sleigh Bells, De Wolfe says,

“In the early part of the 20th century,

most people still travelled by horse and

sleigh during the winter in the country.

The roads were often not maintained

well enough for the few automobiles

in existence at that time, and everyone

owned a horse and sleigh. What could

be nicer than the jingle of sleigh bells

on the harnesses of the horses as they

trotted briskly over the snow-covered

roadway? There were no distractions of

radios, ringing cell phones or blaring CD

players in those days.”

View the artist’s portfolio at Richard

DeWolfe.com.


Extending our individual spiritual practice into everyday activi-ties may present a challenge,

especially during the hectic holiday season. So authors Barbara Brown Taylor and J. Pittman McGehee have uncovered additional ways that some people are tapping into their defini-tions of a Higher Power.

The Practice of Paying AttentionSpend 20 minutes observing a patch of Earth outdoors. Observe what lives there. Think of how it came to be and what it takes for it to survive.

The Practice of Encountering OthersStart a conversation with the cashier at the grocery store. Exchange eye contact and a smile with someone on the subway. Offer help to a mother with a crying child at the airport. Says Taylor: “The hardest spiritual work in the world is to love the neigh-bor as the self—to encounter them not as someone you can use, change, fix, help or save, but as someone who can spring you from the prison of yourself if you will allow it… to enter-tain the possibility that this is one of the faces of God.”

The Practice of Living with PurposeShow your gratitude for being alive through contributing to some com-mon good, whether it is via a voca-tion you love or volunteer work. “Give your stuff away. Share your food. Pray for those who are out to get you. Be the first to say, ‘I’m sorry,’” counsels Taylor.

The Practice of Saying NoSay no for one whole day: to more work, to shopping, to the Internet. Use the time you gain to pay atten-tion. “If you slow down for just one day, alarming things can happen,” observes Taylor.

The Practice of Doing WithoutGo without power for a day. Light candles. Dry laundry on a clothes-line. Sleep by the fire. Feel your heart swell with gratitude when the sun comes up.

The Practice of CreativityCreate something. Paint, write, cook, dance or plant a garden. “Find the creativity, and you will find yourself experiencing the mystical presence of the transcendent, in the most simple and available way,” says McGehee.

The Practice of DreamingWrite down dreams and pay attention to recurring symbols. Honor them as a divine opportunity.

Seven Ways from Sunday

by Lisa Marshall


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Community SpotlightLakeshore Yoga Center by Sharon Pisacreta

Indra Devi, one of the greatest female yoga masters of the 20th century, said “Yoga is a way to freedom. By its constant prac-

tice, we can free ourselves from fear, anguish and loneliness.” Sting claimed that “Yoga is almost like music in a way; there’s no end to it.” The instructors and students at Lakeshore Yoga Center would no doubt agree with both the yoga master and the rock singer. Yoga is indeed the perfect discipline for those seeking tranquility, pain relief and rejuvenation. Luckily its remarkable healing properties can be experienced just a few steps away from downtown Grand Haven at Lakeshore Yoga Center. Opened in 1999 by Pam Fenton (Schap), Lakeshore Yoga Center (LYC) is an expression of her lifelong commitment to help the world discover what she describes as “the time tested benefits of yoga”. A nationally recognized yoga teacher, Pam began practicing yoga when she was just 13 years old. For over 30 years, her dedication to the discipline has only grown as she works to harmonize the mind body spirit connection via meditation, reiki energy and yoga in all its many forms. The calming effects of Lakeshore Yoga are discernible as soon as visitors climb the stairs to the center’s studio and office. A feeling of serenity surrounds one even before walking past the reception area into a long corridor marked off as a ‘Quiet Zone’. Here clients practice yoga, or undergo therapeutic mas-sage therapy in one of the private treatment rooms. Three certified massage therapists work on site to provide such techniques as Swedish, sports and deep tissue massage, acupressure, shiatsu, reflexology and myofascial work for joint pain. Far Infrared saunas are also available to help those inter-ested in weight loss, pain relief, or a relaxing way to sweat out all those toxins. Yoga practice however is the main focus of the center. Those who are either new to the discipline, or not in the best physical shape, are advised to start with Gentle Yoga or Gentle Vinyasa Flow classes. Students looking for a greater physical challenge should try either the more active and fluid movements of Vinyasa Yoga, or the truly athletic workout of a Power Yoga session. A Men’s Yoga class is offered as well, but anyone is welcome to participate. Many come to the center for what Pam has called the “natural, organic and effective pain relief” that yoga provides. Physicians and chiropractors have referred a number of her clients to the LYC. The center offers Restorative Yoga Therapy, which is a gentle, relaxing yoga style designed for anyone recovering from illness, injury or prolonged inactivity. Private yoga therapy classes with Pam can also be scheduled in order to work on specific healing issues. Morning, afternoon and evening classes are available. Most yoga classes last approximately 75 minutes, and are offered in 8-week sessions. If you don’t have a yoga mat, LYC can provide a mat and other yoga props for classroom use. A schedule is posted on their website for students who wish to pre-register. The November/December session is currently running from Nov. 1 thru Dec. 23, but walk-ins are always welcome. Walk-in class fee is $10.00, $5.00 for students with a valid I.D.

Anyone looking for glowing testimonials about yoga need only ask one of LYC’s students or instructors. Sandra Minuth, a registered nurse, first came to Lakeshore Yoga seven years ago, suffering from back pain so severe that she could not bend over. After she began taking class regularly at LYC, her back pain completely disappeared. Through yoga, Sandra has discovered a newfound flexibility, allowing her to resume favorite activities such as gardening. “I couldn’t do any of this without yoga,” Sandra says, adding that she has no intention of stopping her yoga practice for fear of those back problems recurring. She also has a deep respect for the work that Pam Fenton is doing, and speaks highly of her teaching gifts. “When Pam talks to 20 people,” Sandra said, “you feel like she’s directly talking to you.” People of all ages and fitness levels are encouraged to practice yoga. One of the center’s instructors is 77-year-old Charlie Meyers who explains that the will power and strength needed to practice yoga carries over into everyday life. “Yoga keeps me more flexible and calmer,” Charlie says, “and stronger than I was before. I instantly knew it was for me.” Charlie wasn’t always in excellent physical shape; in 1972 he suffered a heart attack and required a pacemaker. It was many years before he discovered the remarkable power of yoga, finally becoming a certified instructor in 2004. He recommends yoga not only for those who want to be physically fit, but also for anyone who wants to experience a sense of well-being. He regards yoga as a virtual fountain of youth and “the only form of exercise you will ever need.” Lakeshore Yoga’s commitment to health and serving the com-munity stretches far beyond their studio on Washington Street. On October 10, 2010, the Lakeshore Yoga staff held a yoga class at the Trillium Center in Spring Lake to benefit the Susan G. Ko-men for the Cure and the American Cancer Society. Pam, who is currently undergoing treatment for breast cancer, led the group class, which was titled ‘Will you come to the mat for cancer?’ Open six days a week, Lakeshore Yoga is located at 715 ½ Washington Street in Grand Haven. First time visitors should be aware that the center is actually a few steps off Washington Street, just around the corner - and up the stairs - of the build-ing housing The Bookman. To learn more about the center or to register for the next winter session which begins January 3, please visit their website http://www.lakeshoreyoga.com or call 616-844-1900. A Buddhist proverb claims, “When the student is ready, the teacher will appear.” If you’re ready to become more physically fit, live with less pain, or simply achieve a greater sense of well-being, Lakeshore Yoga Center is ready to teach you. Namaste.See Lakeshore Yoga’s ad on page 16.

Sharon Pisacreta is a long-time freelance writer who lives in the villages of Saugatuck/Douglas. She is also the edi-tor of the online site lakeeffectliving.com. Sharon may be contacted at [email protected].


healingways

Grief at the loss of a loved one is an emotionally

painful and debilitat-ing condition at any time of the year, as the mind struggles to make sense out of what may seem like the destruction of our internal compass. Time may eventu-ally help heal our wounds, but mean-while, life goes on as usual for the rest of the world, and that includes holidays. Thanksgiving, Christmas, Hanukah and New Year’s are the biggest and usually most challenging of all to endure, let alone enjoy. It is possible to get through the holidays on your own terms. Rather than avoiding the feelings of grief, lean into them, because it is not the grief you want to avoid, but the pain. Grief is the pathway out of the pain of internal feel-ings, and mourning is its external expression.

Have a strategyHave a Plan A and Plan B – Plan A is where you go for the Christmas Eve or Christmas Day dinner with family and friends. Then, if it doesn’t feel right, have your plan B ready: maybe a movie you and your loved one enjoyed togeth-er or a photo album to look through or a special place you went to together. Many people find that when they have Plan B in place, just knowing it is there is enough. You can even cancel the holiday altogether. If you find yourself just

Grieving Duringthe Holidays

by David Kessler

going through the motions and feeling

nothing, cancel them. Take a year off. The same holidays will

come around again and your family and friends will understand. Most of

all, do not feel guilty about “spoiling” anyone else’s merriment. Times of crisis

like these can often serve to bring the true message of the

holiday home to everyone.

Externalize your lossJust as there are rituals that have served mankind throughout the ages, we can create our own personal rites to see us past our grief.

n Dedicate a prayer at the holiday dinner to them.

n Light a candle.

n Chat or create an online tribute to their memory.

n Share a favorite shared story.

n Ask others to relate a funny anecdote.

n Remember them in prayer at your place of worship.

For some, staying involved with the holidays is a symbol of continuing life.

Let the holiday routine provide a framework for surviving these tough times. Try experiencing

the holidays in a new way. Grief has a unique way of

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giving us the permission to really evaluate what parts of the holidays we enjoy and what parts we don’t. There is no right or wrong way to handle the holidays in grief. You have to decide what is right for you and do it. You have every right to change your mind, even more than once. Friends and family members may not have a clue how to help you through the holidays and neither may you. It is very natural to feel like you may never enjoy the holidays again. It is true that they never will be the same as they were, but in time, most people are able to find meaning again in the traditions as a new form of the holiday spirit grows inside of them. Even without grief, our friends and relatives often have strong opinions about how our holidays should look and what we should and shouldn’t do.

Grieving 101DO be gentle with yourself and protect yourself.

DON’T do more than you want to, or anything that does not serve your soul.

DO allow time for feelings to express themselves.

DON’T keep feelings bottled up. If you have 500 tears to cry, don’t stop at 250.

DO allow others to help. We all need help at times in our lives.

DON’T ask if you can help a friend in grief. Just help.

DO pay extra attention to the children in grief.

These holidays are clearly some of the roughest terrain we can navigate after a loss. The ways we deal with them are as individual as we are. These holidays are a normal part of the journey of life, to be felt fully and completely. Holidays can be sad, but we may catch ourselves doing

alright, and even experience laughter. There are all kinds of sadness, but grief is a rite of passage.

David Kessler is the author of Visions, Trips and Crowded Rooms: Who and What You See Before You Die and On Grief and Grieving with Elisabeth Kübler Ross. For more info visit Grief.com.


fitbody

PRAYER WORKOUTSA PROGRAM THAT TRANSFORMS ExERCISE INTO

A PLATFORM FOR SPIRITUAL GROWTH

by April Thompson

It’s a butt-kicking boot camp. It’s a doorway to God. It’s community. It’s caritas, the Christian virtue of charity. It’s ActivPrayer, a fitness program integrating mind, body

and soul, pioneered by a fitness-loving believer in Las Ve-gas, Nevada. “People have different ways to go about it, but people all over the world are looking for ways to have a more living faith, to integrate spirituality in their daily lives,” says Luke Burgis, founder of ActivPrayer and a member of the Catholic Church. “I was also looking to get more out of fitness, so I experimented with different ways to infuse my workouts with a spiritual element.” After successfully training an entertainment executive turned priest, using his “soul fitness” concept, Burgis recruited participants from vari-ous area churches to try out his spiritual boot camps in parks and open gyms. They drew signifi-cant interest and in January 2010, ActivPrayer was officially launched.

Off and RunningActivPrayer’s group exercise classes begin with a guided prayer that varies based on the belief system that orients a particular class. The opening prayer is followed by declaring intentions—a chance for individu-als to dedicate their workouts to a loved one, a person in need or a spiritual goal. Then, the class is literally off and running, with women and men of all ages doing pushups, sprints, shadowboxing or other high-intensity movements in minute-long bursts, fol-lowed by extended rests, for up to 18 cycles. The self-paced intervals, as opposed to a strictly choreographed routine, en-able ActivPrayer’s diverse members to participate according to their own workout levels. The rest periods are more than a time for bodily recovery, however; instructors use them to refocus participants on the day’s intention and meditate on the topic of the day. Every class concludes in prayer, with individuals offered as much time as they want to rest in prayer or meditation before returning to the hustle of daily life. “I go to church every week, but I have a hard time focusing on prayer; I need structure,” explains Jenn DiNenna, a Las Vegas high school


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“We’ve been getting an amazing response

and results with ActivPrayer. What I say

to everyone regarding prayer is, ‘It’s like

breathing. We all do it, somehow.’ We help

guide students with a construct and purpose

to give a greater result.”

Nick Morris, owner, Pineapple Fitness, Los Angeles

teacher. “I know if I go to this class, I will do my prayer and think about the things that matter.”

Enlarged PerspectivesWhile everyone is encouraged to set specific physical fitness goals, the greater results are often intangible: people chang-ing attitudes, taking up a prayer life or, in some cases, con-tributing to community services for the first time. Community service is a key component of ActivPrayer, as participants collaborate on organized projects with local nonprofits at least once a week. Members earn one free workout for every five hours of service; in one recent month, 80 percent of Ac-tivPrayer’s members participated in its service programs. “Before coming to ActivPrayer, I wouldn’t have thought to volunteer, and some of the places we’ve gone I would have been scared to go on my own,” says DiNenna. She now regularly volunteers with the Special Olympics and says, “It’s all opened my eyes and helped me to grow as a person.” Because charity begins at home, Burgis is putting the prin-ciples he preaches into practice in his own business. ActivPrayer is helping to create free wellness programs for churches, initially working with interested faith communities to pull together a local team of nurses, doctors, nutritionists and fitness instructors to run a wellness ministry for their congregations. With backing from an angel investor, ActivPrayer is on its way to establishing its own flagship club in Las Vegas, and hopes to have clubs in a few other major cities by the end of 2011. While Burgis eventually seeks to establish a class for every major religion, make ActivPrayer as ubiquitous as yoga and get its classes on the schedule at major fitness chains, he approaches the project with humility, anticipating that its development will evolve organically. Much like his fitness goals, Burgis’ goals for ActivPrayer are not growth for growth’s sake—he promises investors he’ll never draw more than a modest salary—but to spread the good word about what adding soul to fitness can do for people. “When you learn to see fitness not as a means to an end, but as a way to grow spiritually, you are adding a dimension to your life that can never be taken away, no matter what your physical condition,” he concludes.

For more information, call 888-594-5382, visit ActivPrayer.org or email [email protected].

April Thompson is a freelance writer based in Washington, D.C. Connect at AprilWrites.com.


Exceptional EndingsReally Good Raw DessertsOver indulging in sweets during the winter

festivities can produce unwanted weight gain

and a general feeling of sluggishness—a not-

so-wonderful gift for anyone. But adding a raw

food dessert to our holiday repertoire could

introduce a new, healthier tradition to holiday

occasions that’s welcomed by everyone.

by Judith Fertig

consciouseating

Raw Food Desserts KitchenAlthough no oven is used in making raw desserts, other electronic equipment is necessary.

Blender Makes sauces, puddings, smoothies and fillingsDehydrator Removes moisture from raw foods at 112° to 118° F; “bakes” cookiesFood Processor Makes nut crusts and fruit puréesElectric Juicer Presses and juices fruits and vegetables

A raw dessert no longer means only a simple piece of fruit or a handful of nuts. While a traditional holiday story conjures sleeping children with “visions of sugar-

plums” dancing in their heads, the dreams of raw dessert chefs more likely spring from Medjool dates, cacao nibs and exotic fruits. That’s because raw desserts are made from uncooked, minimally processed and generally plant-based foods. Raw foods aficionados say they are usually first at-tracted to this type of food preparation because the recipes do not contain wheat, refined sugar, eggs or dairy products, which eliminates the need to work around food sensitivities. Plus, they feel better after they’ve eaten a raw foods dessert, which might feature nuts, fresh and dried fruits, agave nectar and/or chocolate. When these raw foods are ground or puréed in a food pro-cessor or blender, they contribute mightily to dessert crusts, fill-ings, sauces and frostings to grace tarts, cakes, cookies, puddings and ice creams—all of which can be made without cooking. Sometimes, dessert recipes call for using a dehydrator, a simple appliance that dries foods slowly at around 112° to 118° F, to avoid the enzyme changes that occur when foods are cooked at higher temperatures. The dehydrator yields a charac-

teristic that raw foods enthusiast Nathalie Lussier describes as “...a warm, chewy, comfort food feeling, so that you can make cookies that come out slightly warm from the dehydrator.” With raw desserts, “You really can have your cake and eat it too, because the recipes are packed with nutrients and fiber,” advises raw desserts chef Heather Pace, the author of four raw dessert e-books, including Just Desserts and Raw Party Parfait. Most raw foods desserts, like most exceptional sweets, involve several steps to make each part. “While at first glance, a raw dessert might appear to be complicated and time-consum-ing,” notes Pace, “it’s really very simple. Each component can be thrown together quickly and easily and can be made ahead.” The benefits of raw desserts extend beyond the simply nutritional, affirm devoted adherents. Rose Lee Calabro, author of Living in the Raw and Living in the Raw Desserts, had experi-enced a host of personal health issues that virtually disappeared when she began to eat a mainly raw foods diet a decade ago. But more than that, she says, “Eating raw foods has contributed to a career change and a dramatic shift in my life.” According to eco-lifestylist and raw foods author Ani Phyo, “Eating more organic, fresh, whole foods helps us main-tain an ideal weight, lowers cholesterol, boosts the immune system and helps us look and feel our best.” But for her, as well, raw foods are more than a diet. She remarks, “It affects the way I live and interact with planet Earth and all other living beings.” Phyo is the author of Ani’s Raw Food Essentials, Ani’s Raw Food Desserts and Ani’s Raw Food Kitchen. Lussier agrees all the way around. “I believe raw foods can heal you on a physical, emotional and spiritual level,” she comments, because like many others, “I’ve personally experi-enced it myself.”

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


Three Raw Cookbook Authors Share their Best Holiday Recipes

Chocolate Pecan Brownie with Maple Maca Ice Cream and Spiced Apple Compote “Picture a dense chocolate nut brown-ie, smooth, cold ice cream and warm fruit compote that has just the right touch of spice, with a velvety chocolate sauce to round it all out. If that weren’t enough, I garnish it with a drizzle of pure maple syrup,” says raw foods des-sert chef Heather Pace. She explains that Maca (Lepidium meyenii) is a Peruvian root with a strong flavor and recommends using only a little, until one is acclimated to the taste.

Serves 6 to 8

For the brownie:4 cups raw pecans½ cup pitted, packed Medjool dates¼ cup maple or palm sugar2/3 cup cacao powder2 tsp pure vanilla extractPinch of Himalayan or sea salt

For the ice cream:2 cups raw cashews2 cups waterSeeds from ½ vanilla bean1/3 cup maple syrup1 tbsp Maca root powder or to taste

For the compote:4 medium apples, peeled and cored½ cup maple syrup¼ cup raisins2 tbsp goji berries2 pitted Medjool dates, chopped1 tsp lemon zest½ tsp cinnamon¼ tsp nutmeg2 pinches ground cardamom

For the chocolate sauce:1/3 cup cacao powder¼ cup pure maple syrup2 to 3 tbsp water2 tsp melted coconut oil

1. For the brownie, grind the pecans into crumbs in a food processor. Add the remaining ingredients and process into a moist, crumbly dough. Press the mixture into an 8-by-8-inch pan. Chill.

2. For the ice cream, blend all ingredi-ents until smooth and creamy. Chill for a few hours. Process through an ice cream maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions; or fill ice cube trays and freeze.

3. For the compote, soak the raisins and goji berries in water for 2 to 4 hours. Drain. In a food processor, chop the apples into small pieces. Add remaining ingredients to the apples, including the drained fruit, and stir together. Process half the mixture until smooth. Fold into the other half. Dehydrate for a few hours at 115° F, until the apples take on a warm, “cooked” feel.

4. For the sauce, blend all ingredients together until smooth.

5. To assemble the dessert, cut the brownies into portions and place a brownie on each plate. Top with ice cream. Swirl compote around the brownie and drizzle with chocolate sauce.

Pineapple Icebox DessertThe pineapple, a renowned symbol of hospitality for centuries, can make a refreshingly welcome holiday des-sert. “Pineapple is full of the enzyme bromelaine, which helps decrease inflammation and swelling—and that can translate to increased circulation and clear skin,” says Ani Phyo, of Ani’s Raw Food Desserts. “I always choose fresh when available, but frozen pine-apple will also work for this recipe.”

Makes 6 to 8 servings

For the crust:2 cups cashewsSeeds from 1 vanilla bean, or 1 tbsp alcohol-free vanilla extract2 tbsp agave syrup


The Raw Food Dessert Pantryby Judith Fertig

A basic raw food dessert pantry includes plant-based foods that are in

the purest state possible. It differs from a conventional pantry in that items have undergone very little or no processing; plus, many familiar foods find new uses. Nuts become flours or milks for sauces. Natural sweet-eners replace highly processed sugar. Chocolate assumes its most natural state. Fresh, ripe fruits provide flavor and smooth texture. Dried fruits amplify taste and sweetness. Psyllium powder thickens sauces and fillings in place of flour, eggs, cornstarch or tapioca. Here’s a taste of the possibilities…

Nuts: Raw almonds, pecans, pine nuts, cashews

Sweeteners: Medjool dates, date sugar, maple sugar, palm sugar, agave nectar, maple syrup

Chocolate: Cacao nibs, cacao powder, carob

Fats: Coconut oil, nut butters, cocoa butter, cold-pressed oils

Flavorings: Whole vanilla bean, pure vanilla extract, spices, fresh citrus zest

Fresh fruits: Ripe bananas, avocado, pine-apple, strawberries, apples and pears

Dried fruits: Raisins, goji ber-ries, figs, desic-cated coconut

Thickeners: Psyllium powder

For the filling:1½ cups cashews1/3 cup agave syrup¼ cup liquid coconut oil¼ cup filtered water, as needed2½ cups chopped, cored pineapple

1. To make the crust, combine the cashews and vanilla in the food pro-cessor and chop to a crushed wafer texture (like a cookie crumb crust for cheesecake). Add the agave syrup and process to mix well. Sprinkle half of the crust onto the bottom of a loaf pan.

2. To make the filling, combine the cashews, agave syrup and coconut oil in a high-speed blender and blend until smooth, adding water as needed to create a creamy texture. Spoon the mixture into a mixing bowl; add the pineapple and stir to mix well. Spoon the filling into the loaf pan and sprinkle the remaining crust on top. Pat lightly. Freeze for 2 hours or until chilled. Will keep for 4 to 6 days refrigerated or for several weeks in the freezer.

Incredibly Decadent Chocolate CakeThis recipe from Rose Lee Calabro’s Liv-ing in the Raw Desserts gets its body from almonds, its sweetness from dates and agave nectar, and its scrumptious choco-lateyness from cacao nibs—all available at better grocery or health food stores. Plan ahead several days to allow time to soak and then dehydrate the almonds.Makes 8 to 10 servingsFor the cake:2 cups almonds; soak for 12 to 48 hours, then dehydrate for 18 hours2 cups pitted Medjool dates1/3 cup raw almond butter¼ cup raw cacao nibs, ground super fine; or cacao powder¼ cup agave nectar2 tsp vanilla extractFor the filling:2 large ripe bananas, thinly slicedFor the frosting:1 ripe avocado1 ripe banana5 pitted Medjool dates½ cup water1/3 cup pine nuts; soak in water 1 hour, then drain2 tbsp raw cacao nibs, ground super fine; or cacao powder1 tsp vanilla extract

1. For the cake, place the almonds in a food processor fitted with a steel blade and process into a fine meal. Gradual-ly add the dates, almond butter, cacao, agave nectar and vanilla extract, then continue processing until the mixture is well blended and forms a ball. If the mixture isn’t blending, add a small amount of water, as needed, to achieve the desired consistency. Divide the mixture into two equal parts (for two layers), and form each part into a round cake layer about 8 inches in diameter. Place each layer on a plate.

2. For the filling, arrange the sliced bananas on top of the bottom layer and place the second layer on top of the bananas.

3. For the frosting, combine all of the ingre-dients in a blender and process until smooth, thick and creamy. Frost the top and sides of the cake. Decorate with fresh strawberries or other seasonal fruit. Re-frigerate for 2 to 3 hours before serving.

Be faithful in small things because it is in them that

your strength lies. ~ Mother Teresa


A Simple Guide to the Subtle Energy System of the Bodyby Brian Roscoe DC

While the average American contestant on Jeopardy might be challenged to answer the question, what is the word for a type of energy vortex that exists

within and around the body, an East Indian competitor would quickly push the buzzer and answer: Chakra! Chakra is a Sanskrit word for the subtle, wheel-like energy vortexes, spinning spheres of bio-energetic activity found in seven major areas of the body. Beginning at the tailbone and continuing up the spine to the top of the head, these rotating energy centers receive, assimilate, and express life force energy. Few people see them, but whether they know it or not, almost everyone intuitively senses them within themselves and others. Each of the chakras is integrated with our body’s healthy function connecting to particular organs, systems and glands as well as our current state of emotional balance. When we become run down, emotionally stressed and unhealthy or spiritually disconnected, it is reflected in the vitality of these energy centers. Our emotional and physical life challenges show up in the chakra that is associated with a particular organ, system or emotional area. When we create or fall into unhealthy thought patterns, traumatic situations, or illness that we are not mentally or physically healthy enough to effectively heal, quite obviously we become imbalanced and our physical and/or emotional health becomes disrupted. Our chakra system reflects these imbalances in our world through the way it emanates its respective color and energetic flow. Each Chakra relates us to our inner and outer world and different states of balance. When we are depleted and imbalanced in our words, actions and emotions, and we’re not following and doing the things we innately know are healthy, or when we’re physically drained or sick (which often has emotional overlays to it) the associated chakra resonates its energy with that same imbalance. You may feel it as a lack of energy, sense of being out of step with the world around you, or simply attribute it to a bad day. However you interpret it, you and others deeply and intuitively sense the balance of this “chakra” energy, whether you consciously notice it or not. Names and some characteristics of the chakras are listed to the right. This is a basic list and there are many ways to explain their function. Just because it’s not on this list, doesn’t mean it’s wrong, it’s just that charkas are complex and different authorities emphasize different things.

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If you want to learn more about feeling and balancing your personal chakras, start with becoming familiar with where each is located and how they might feel as they flow within. To do this, be patient. Slowly, one by one try to feel the chakra that is associated with the energy center on your body. Let your mind become aware of the location and existence of each chakra inside and outside of your body. Breathe into each chakra placing your palms just over the front part of your body where that chakra emanates (refer to the chart below). Do this in whatever order seems appropriate for you, but one by one try to feel all of them. Keep in mind that your chakras exist along the spine and head. Their flow moves forward through your body and out the front. As you feel each area with your mind and palms, fill that chakra with its appropriate color listed on the chart. After you can see and feel the color, keep that color in your awareness and meditate on the associated mantra or meditation. If you can’t bring the color and the mantra together at the same time easily, that’s okay, one at a time works perfectly well. Be still and note mentally and physically what you feel emanating from within and outside your body. At first this may be slight or non-existent, but with time and practice and intention it will build into a more vivid experience. Let yourself become aware of any feelings and any “expansion” within each chakra area. Allow yourself to be imaginative in understanding and feeling the presence, peace and emotional direction of each chakra. If you feel that you need some assistance, find a good body worker or healer to help. Above all have fun learning more about your energetic self and how you can use chakras to create balance and health in your life.


Chakra Location Simply Sanskrit

name Governs Weakened

by Connected to

Mantra

1 Base of spine

Earth chakra Muladhara Groundedness to the world. Feeling safe in our physical form and world regarding things, shelter, money.

Fear or feeling unsafe

Physical strength, courage, primal instincts like survival and security

I am rooted into this earth. I am deeply connected to its essence.

2 Below the navel

Creative chakra

Svadisthana Emotions, intimacy and sexuality

Negative emotion

Independence, creativity and sexuality

I am a creative and sensual being with passion for life. My relationships with others allow continuous evolution of self.

3 Solar plexus Personal power

Manipura Strength of will, self esteem

Feelings of grief or guilt, unhealthy power (gossip, put downs, toxic language toward self or others)

Ego identity, self definition, vitality, healthy power

I believe in who I can be. With willpower, strength and honest, I continuously create myself. I accept my mistakes and walk forward with purpose.

4 Center of chest

Love Anahata Love, compassion, acceptance and forgiveness of oneself and others

Lack of trust in the power of love

Our ability to manifest unconditional love. Healthy relationships with ourselves and others.

Love is the greatest purpose in life. I can love and be loved by myself and others. I can compassionately forgive with a strong heart infused with humble respect for all.

5 Throat Expression Vishuddha Communication and speech. Speaking one’s truth

Lies and suppressing one’s truth

Truthful expression. Connecting throat chakra with heart helps us speak our truth lovingly.

I can speak my deepest truth to myself and others with clarity, kindness and strength.

6 Between eyebrows

Personal truth Ajna Our psychic sense, intuition and perception

Avoiding one’s perception of truth; refusing to explore possibilities

Intuition; our ability to perceive.

I am opening myself to the perception of the truth of who I am and the potential direction of my path.

7 Top of head Spiritual enlightenment

Sahasrara Spirituality, self-realization and enlightenment

Living without faith, without gratitude for life

Pure awareness, consciousness, the place of prayer or meditation

I accept the infinite connection between my humanness and that which is greater than me.


naturalpet

At this year’s 2010 Global Pet Expo, buyers attending the an-nual pet industry gathering were

abuzz about a new exhibit area called Natural Pets. “Natural products are expanding the industry. When you have a new trend for humans, this appeals to the pet industry, as well,” observes Steven King, president of the Pet Industry Distributors Association. Just this year, Americans will have spent an estimated $47 billion on pet products and services, according to the American Pet Products Association. Categories include food, pet supplies,

over-the-counter medicines and vet care services and products, many of them incorporating natural materials. The industry reports that, on average, pet owners annually spend $40 per dog and $19 per cat on toys alone. One more fur-raising fact: Ameri-can Pet Association statistics reveal that of the nation’s 140 million household cats and dogs, 31 million dogs and 39 million cats will have presents waiting for them under the tree on Christmas morning. Also, people will celebrate the birthdays of as many as 13.5 million cats and 9.8 million dogs with parties and pet gifts.

Presents for PetsHealthy, Natural Holiday Treats

by Gail Condrick

What is a politically correct, Earth-conscious shopper to do? We can choose organic and natu-ral products for the same reasons we would go natural in buying decisions for human family members. Concerned citizens are demanding greater use of nontoxic, pesticide- and chemical-free materials that are better for the health of people, pets and the planet. As Patricia Castaneda, owner of Pet’s Life Naturally, in Palmetto, Florida, advises: “Don’t give anything to your pet that you would not put in the mouth of a small child.” That means no dyes or toys that have small parts to swallow or that are made of toxic materials. Pets can be sensitive to fabrics that come in contact with their skin, just like humans are, creating painful and costly aller-gic reactions. She admonishes, “Your animals count on you to protect them.”

Feline ProwessThe Humane Society of America believes that wise use of toys, combined with regular playtime, contributes to the health and happiness of cats of all ages. Play satisfies their instinctual hunting drive, develops mental and physical agility and provides bonding time with their humans. The society recommends cat toys that offer variety: one to carry, one to wrestle with, one to roll and one to “baby.” What is right for your cat? Pet store professionals know which products cus-tomers purchase and enjoy. As Castane-da remarks, “Cats are so creative and independent they can have fun with ping-pong balls, cardboard toilet paper rolls and plastic shower rings. Just make sure that what they play with cannot be eaten or harm them.” Of course, the whole family can enjoy creating original cat toys using a bit of imagination, along with organic cotton, natural ingredients and a needle and thread. Just follow the same rules of thumb for homemade playthings to keep the animals safe.

Canine WisdomDogs need toys to fight boredom when left alone for any length of time, ac-cording to the Humane Society. They also recommend four types of toys for dogs: at least one to carry, one to shake,

We have good news for anyone in search of a nifty gift for a furry or feathered family member. Whether the oc-casion is a holiday, birthday or animal appreciation day, there is a “green” pet gift to celebrate it. The mantra of reduce, reuse and recycle is now present in the pet indus-try, providing many more eco-friendly options.


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one to roll and one to “baby,” for play and to release stress. Many dog toys should be interactive, to increase time with people. By focusing on a specific task—such as repeatedly returning a ball or playing hide-and-seek with treats or toys—dogs can take advantage of the opportunity to expend pent-up mental and physical energy. Healthy and organic presents for pets are now widely available in neigh-borhood natural pet stores, as well as

online. At such shops, people and pets can check out the choices firsthand and seek advice from the staff. If there’s a toss-up between products, ask if a por-tion of the product sales goes to benefit animal causes, making it a gift that gives again. That could be the tiebreaker.

Gail Condrick is a freelance writer based in Sarasota, FL. Reach her at NiaVisions.com.

savvy shopper tipsFriendly Brands for Pets, People and the Planet

Looking for inspiring pet- and Earth-friendly gift ideas? Here is a list of the top six eco-friendly brands recommended by natural pet store owners in an informal survey. Other local natural pet stores will have

additional appealing ideas and products.

WEST PAW DESIGN (WestPawDesign.com) – Look for hang tags that say “I used to be a plastic bottle,” on toys and bedding for cats and dogs. The Bumi boomerang invites pooches to bend and tug. The Hurley encour-ages an active canine to chew, bounce and float it, and even comes with a replacement guarantee. Cats take to their catnip toy mouse. And, if a pet tires of a West Paw Design toy, their Join the Loop program will recycle returned products into new pet toys.

PLANET DOG (PlanetDog.com) – Planet Dog eco-products range from recycled balls and bones to a Zoom Flyer for throwing and an after-bath tow-el for canine comfort. The company operates a foundation providing products and funding to worthy causes based on the philosophy, “Think Globally and Act Doggedly.”

KONG NATURALS (KongCompany.com) – Their eco-friendly line of cat toys feature straw cones with feathers, crinkle caterpillars and entertaining fantasy animals. Kong also offers cat scratchers made of recycled products, some reversible for longer wear, with feathers attached for play.

DUCKYWORLD (DuckyWorld.com) – If a fish-shaped toy with the aromatic name of “Yeowww! Stinky Catnip Sardines” brings a smile, consider DuckyWorld’s 100 percent organic, leaf- and flower-top catnip toy, grown by a private farmer with no chemicals or pesticides. Company owners swear cats can tell the difference.

THE GOOD DOG COMPANY (TheGoodDogCompany.com) – Innova-tion here includes two Labrador employees, Howard and Ruby, who “lab” test the company’s hemp toys, collars and leashes. Good Dog claims that its lab-sized hemp biscuits and bungee bone tug toy are good to fetch, catch and carry, and can even improve dental health.

SWEET FEET & BEAK (SweetFeetAndBeak.com) – If a favored pet is feathered, try this bamboo perch, which offers the gift of a daily calcium supplement, along with an ongoing pedicure for bird friends.

In the end, it’s all about just doing what comes naturally for all of our gift-giving.


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inspiration

In his 1967 memoir, Stop-Time, Frank Conroy describes his initiation into literature as an adolescent on

Manhattan’s Upper East Side. “I’d lie in bed…,” he writes, “and read one paper-back after another until two or three in the morning. The real world dissolved and I was free to drift in fantasy, living a thousand lives, each one more power-ful, more accessible and more real than my own.” I know that boy: Growing up in the same neighborhood, I was that boy. And I have always read like that, although these days, I find myself driven by the idea that in their intimacy,

The Art of Readingby David L. Ulin

the one-to-one attention they require, books are not tools to retreat from the world, but, rather, ways to better under-stand and interact with it. As an act of contemplation, reading relies on our ability to still our mind long enough to inhabit someone else’s world, and to let that someone else inhabit ours. We possess the books we read, but they possess us also, filling us with thoughts and observations, asking us to make them part of ourselves. This is what Conroy was hinting at in his account of adolescence. In order for this to work, however, we need a cer-

tain type of silence, an ability to filter out the world’s incessant noise. Such a state is increasingly elusive in our hyper-networked culture, in which every rumor and banality is blogged and tweeted. Today, it seems it is not contemplation we seek, but an odd sort of distraction, busily masquer-ading as being in the know. How do we pause when we must know every-thing instantly? How do we ruminate when we are constantly expected to respond? How do we become im-mersed in something (an idea, emotion or decision) when we are no longer willing to give ourselves the space to reflect? This is where real reading comes in, because it demands that space and restores time to us in a fundamental way. Books insist that we slow down and immerse ourselves in them. We can rely on books to pull us back from the world, to reconnect us with a more elemental sense of who we are. Text has a permanence that eclipses boundaries of time and space, whether written yesterday or 1,000 years ago. After spending hours each day reading emails and fielding phone calls in the office, tracking information

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A 2008 Scholastic study found that 82 percent of children ages five to eight and 55 percent of

teens ages 15 to 17 like to read for pleasure. Nearly two-thirds prefer to read

physical books rather than a computer screen or digital device. High-frequency Internet users are more likely to read books for fun every day.

across countless websites, I find it diffi-cult to quiet down in the evening. I pick up a book and read, but some nights it takes 20 pages to settle down. Still, it happens if we want it to, if we consider it necessary. “My experience,” William James once observed, “is what I agree to at-tend to,” a line Winifred Gallagher uses to set forth the theme of her book, Rapt: Attention and the Focused Life. Atten-tion, she posits, is a lens through which we consider not merely identity, but desire. Who do we want to be, she asks, and how do we go about that process of becoming, in a world of endless op-tions, distractions and possibilities? When I was a kid, my grandmother used to get mad at me for attending fam-ily functions with a book. Back then, if I’d had the language for it, I might have argued that the world within the pages was more compelling than the world without; I was reading both to escape and to be engaged. All these years later, I find myself in a similar position, in which reading has become an act of contemplative medita-tion, with all of meditation’s attendant difficulty and grace. I sit down. I try to make a place for silence. It’s harder than it used to be, but still, I read.

David L. Ulin is the book editor of the Los Angeles Times.


greenliving

A new movement is afoot to reclaim and refocus the holidays. Part of it stems

from a desire to cut back on the wastefulness that comes from ac-cumulating mountains of store-bought gifts and wrappings. Another is the growing desire to generate more mean-ingful memories during the holidays. One answer is to embrace a do-it-yourself, or DIY, mentality that makes everything—from decorating to tree trimming, cooking and gift giving—per-sonal. There is no better time to join in activities as a family than Christmas-time. Subtract the frenzied consumer-ism and there is little for a child not to love: being with loved ones in the kitchen, measuring flour, rolling dough and cutting cookies; happily sitting around a table, pasting, stamping and glittering; decorating a tree that magi-cally transforms with each addition; and the scents of cookies, candles and cinnamon-dotted wreaths.

Evergreen CenterpiecedElevating the holiday atmosphere starts with the tree—the centerpiece of holiday celebrations, which too often re-

sembles a department store version these days. Erin Devine, of Portland, Oregon, remembers how her parents’ tradition of buying a living Christmas tree from a lo-cal nursery made a vivid impression on her as a child. “My parents would get the tree with the roots still very much alive in the burlap bag of dirt,” recalls Devine, who was raised in Connecticut. “We’d put the tree in a big galvanized tub and just wrap it with a white sheet; then, when Christmas was over, we’d plant the tree somewhere in the four-acre yard.” That appreciation for the vibrant details of the holidays lives on. Now, this mother of three takes a homemade, family-oriented approach to her young family’s annual celebration. Last year, they all wrapped recycled glass jars with colored tissue paper as tea lights and pencil holders for adults and made

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homemade play dough for the kids’ friends. They also baked together and made decorations for the house and tree. “It’s one thing to teach kids about being responsible adults and good stew-ards of this planet, but when we spend time together learning how to do it, it’s so much more meaningful,” Devine remarks. “When the kids enjoy learning about something and it involves love, it will become important to them.”

Sparking InspirationThose who are not naturally crafty will find lots of resources for creating beautiful and personal Christmas keep-sakes online, as well as on bookstore and library shelves. Many publications offer ideas for decorating the branches of your living—or not-so-living—tree, using household objects that would otherwise be discarded. Yoga teacher and holistic lifestyle expert Anna Getty went so far as to write I’m Dreaming of a Green Christ-mas, a book that’s all about using less, spending less and enjoying family time more. She details a whole new per-

spective: how to turn recycled chan-delier gems into Christmas tree icicles; eggshells and teabags into vintage-style ornaments; and old sweaters into fes-tive wreaths.

Waste Not, Want NotSuch simple pleasures can make a major environmental impact. During the holidays, household waste gener-ally increases by 25 percent—an extra 1 million tons of garbage across the country—according to the U.S. Envi-ronmental Protection Agency. Holiday craft projects can trans-form much of this “waste” by making the most of its decorative potential. Shellie Wilson, the founder of Craftbits.com, a site that provides thousands of free, do-it-yourself craft ideas, says she and her mother Rita are craft hoard-ers. “We never throw anything out that we think can be turned into something wonderful,” comments Wilson. Her favorites include a T-shirt pillow that maintains the shirt’s shape and a no-sew baby overalls purse, using glue in place of thread.

Instructables.com is the kind of user-submitted, DIY, bake it, fix it and tweak it website that invites hours of surfing. Developed at the Mas-sachusetts Institute of Technology, it has become a massive platform for idea sharing, including a page called “Have a DIY Christmas!” that orga-nizes ideas by category. Options range from origami ball decorations and a homemade book clock to gift boxes and tags made from cereal boxes and junk mail. “With the state of the economy lately, people are looking for more ways to stretch their budgets and repurpose used objects,” remarks Sarah James, editor of Instructables’ Living and Food website sections. Along with the benefits of mini-mizing waste, spending less money and reclaiming quality time with loved ones, making our own gifts and decora-tions is also fun. The process of discov-ering, attempting and creating can help unlock our inner artist at any age.

Brita Belli is the editor of E – The Environmental Magazine.


If we resist the urge to charge over to the nearest big-box store to load up on the latest plastic marketing ploys,

we’ll likely find more satisfaction in picking toys that will create less of an environmental impact—and more of a personal one. It’s easy to look for the following five eco-friendly attributes.

SOLAR POWERED. Nearly any toy with batteries and a motor can operate with simple sun power instead. Solar versions of traditional toys range from racing cars and quivering grasshoppers to bullet trains that kids build from snap-together parts (Google by type of toy). Solar-powered toys teach kids the benefits of renewable energy, which unlike those with batteries, require no additional cost and produce no battery waste.

BUILT TO LAST. Many toys today are flimsy, cheaply made and even down-right toxic. The organiza-tion behind HealthyStuff.org tests thousands of products each year to help families steer clear of the worst toxins in many common toys—including lead, cadmium, arsenic and mercury. High-quality toys don’t have to come from a toy store. Check out yard and tag sales, as well as local craft fairs, for

well-constructed toys, from rocking horses and toy chests to bikes, doll-houses and kid collectibles. Or look for new toys made from sustainable materials, like the handmade hardwood sleds, toboggans and wagons made by Mountain Boy Sledworks.

DO-IT-YOURSELF. Craft kits allow a child to make a toy that incor-porates his or her own creative vision, all the better when the parts are made of sustain-able materials. Artterro offers a collection of eco-friendly craft kits, from jewelry and dolls to garden art and bubble wands. Ma-

terials include post-consumer waste paper from India; hand-dyed fabrics, wool felt and glass and wooden beads. The San Francisco Museum of Craft & Design sells a bird cafe that encourages kids to explore na-ture in their backyards once the craft is complete. Any of these is easily found online, searching by name. Of course, making our own craft kits can be as easy as cutting spare fabric, adding buttons, beads and other found mementos. Assemble all the pieces in a fun container and let kids’ imaginations fly.

ALTERNATIVES TO PLASTIC. Plas-tic toys are everywhere, and when it comes to softer plastic toys like rubber duckies, teethers and bath books,

ECO-TOYJOYSSpottingEarth-FriendlyGiftIdeasforKids

by Brita Belli

they may actually pose a health hazard to growing kids. Such toys often con-tain phthalates, chemicals that studies like those from Mount Sinai School of Medicine and the Environmental Working Group have linked to behav-ioral problems, aggression and autism. Look for wooden versions of classic toys instead—from stacking blocks and puzzles to push toys. If they are painted, verify that it was with nontox-ic, water-based paint. Etsy.com represents several designers who spe-cialize in heirloom-quality wooden toys, like Wood-mouse animal figures, Just Hatched fruits and veggies and Stump Pond Woodworks creations that spin, dance and tum-ble through the playroom.

RECYCLED CONTENT. One of the best ways to ensure we’re choosing a “green” gift is to find out if it’s made from recycled content. For the teen set, recycled options help them make a statement, whether it’s a belt acces-sorized with bottle caps, a purse made of license plates or a bag made from former billboards. TerraCycle even makes mini-boom boxes and speakers out of former M&M’s, Skittles and Starburst candy wrappers (DwellSmart.com). Light, por-table and super-colorful, they supply a natural complement to any iPod or MP3-player gift this holiday season.

For more ideas, visit Education.com and

search Green Toys.


by Sharon PisacretaThe Natural Beauty of Honey

Honey has been a treasured food source for thousands of years. Ancient Egyptians used honey as a sweetener, the

Greeks baked honey cakes, and the Romans spread the practice of beekeeping throughout their empire. Less well known are the beneficial uses of honey for the hair and skin. Although many present-day beauty products include honey in their list of ingre-dients, it’s easy – and less expensive – to use homemade versions.

Bath: Legends claim that Cleopatra often bathed in milk and honey to soften her skin. As a humectant, honey attracts and retains moisture. This makes it one of nature’s most effective moisturizers. To enjoy the benefits of a rejuvenating honey bath, simply pour ¼ to 1 cup of honey into hot bath water. If you have sensitive, sunburned or irritated skin, honey’s anti-oxidants and anti-irritants will help replenish and refresh the skin while bathing. When there’s no time to luxuriate in a bath, mix ½ -1 cup honey and fresh lime juice (about ½ fresh lime). Massage the mixture over your face and body, then rinse off in a relaxing warm shower. For a boost to the circulation, finish with a cool rinse.

Face: Because honey absorbs impurities from the skin, it is an excellent facial cleanser. Research shows that honey slowly releases small amounts of hydrogen peroxide when it comes in contact with skin. In fact, dabbing a little honey on pimples is an alternative treatment to peroxide. A cinnamon and honey mixture applied at night to pimple and blackhead breakouts will help reduce the effects as well. For those concerned about clogged pores, keep in mind that honey’s microbial enzymes help prevent the growth of bacteria. These same properties also work to protect skin from damaging UV rays. Honey both stimulates and soothes, making it an ideal ingredient for facial masks. For a quick daily mask, apply a mixture of 2 tbsp honey and 2 tbsp milk to your face. Rinse after ten minutes. It’s even easier to include honey in a weekly facial mask. First open the pores with a short soak in warm water. Smooth honey over the face, letting it sit for up to 30 minutes. Rinse with warm water first, then cold. Interested in a gentle exfoliating treatment? Combine 2 tbsp oatmeal, 1 tbsp honey, 1 tbsp ground almonds and a little lemon juice. Massage the mixture onto the skin; rinse well afterwards. In winter when skin is especially prone to dryness, apply honey to your face for five minutes before bedtime. Make certain to rinse thoroughly before turning in. This moisturizing treatment will leave skin silky smooth in the morning. And for a sweet smelling, effective toner, pulse 1 cored peeled apple and I tbsp honey in a food processor or blender until the mixture is smooth. Apply to the face, then wash off after 15 minutes.

Hair: To add shine to hair, mix 1 tsp honey in a quart of very warm water. (Blondes can include a squeeze or two of fresh lemon.) Pour over hair directly after shampooing. No need to rinse it out. This same mixture can also be put into a spray bottle; spritz over damp hair, then comb, dry and style as usual. For a deep conditioning treatment, The National Honey

Board recommends mixing ½ cup honey with ¼ cup olive oil (2 tbsp for normal hair). Slowly work the mixture through the hair, and cover with a shower cap. Remove the shower cap after 30 minutes. Shampoo well, then rinse.Lips: When lips are dry, mix several drops of honey with pe-troleum jelly. If you prefer a lip balm with added vitamins and fragrance, combine 2 tbsp petroleum jelly with 1 tsp of beeswax in a small bowl. Place in the microwave until mixture melts (1-5 minutes). After stirring, cool for several minutes. Finally, add 1 tsp honey, 1/8 tsp of vitamin E oil, and a tsp of vanilla extract or several drops of a favorite essential oil.

Oral Hygiene: Since bad breath is caused by bacterial over-growth, honey’s anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties make it a natural alternative to commercial mouthwash. For fresher breath, try mixing 1 tsp honey and a pinch of cinnamon powder in warm water, then gargle. In addition, recent studies in New Zealand indicate that certain types of honey appear to stop the growth of dental plaque. Once your beauty routine is complete, remember to put some of this golden substance into your body. (Please note that honey should not be fed to infants under a year old.) Honey is an excellent source of vitamins, amino acids, minerals, anti-oxidants and carbohydrates. In 2002, the American Chemical Society presented research showing that honey contained the same level of anti-oxidants as spinach, apples, oranges, straw-berries and bananas. University of California volunteers ate 4 tablespoons of buckwheat honey daily for one month; the results were higher levels of polyphenols in their blood, which help reduce the risk of cancer and heart disease. If weight loss is a concern, spread a little honey on toast. Twenty minutes after eating honey, blood sugar levels rise and remain high for two hours. This not only has a calming effect, but also reduces food cravings for that two-hour time period. While honey has long been touted as a home remedy for colds, coughs, sore throats, and digestive problems, it also has the ability to prevent fatigue and maintain glucose levels. Indeed, honey’s fructose and glucose make it the perfect training food. Athletes regularly turn to honey for its natural source of carbo-hydrates (17 grams per tbsp.). Studies published by The Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research demonstrate that honey works as well as glucose for endurance athletes who need carbs. Try just a spoonful of honey before that next gym visit. Its natural unrefined sugars and carbohydrates, which your diges-tive system absorbs easily, will result in a fast surge of energy that lasts a long time. For centuries, honey has been utilized as a food, beauty aid and medicine, boasting devotees as diverse as Cleopatra and Winnie the Pooh. Few natural substances serve such a wide array of purposes. So the next time you need a boost of energy, fresher breath or cleaner skin, reach for that plastic bear filled with honey. You will be amazed at how sweet – and versatile – honey can be.

Sharon Pisacreta is a long-time freelance writer who recently followed her bliss to the villages of Saugatuck/Douglas.


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inspiration

1Be a FUNdamentalist—make sure the Fun always comes before the

Mental. Realize that life is a situation comedy that will never be canceled. A laugh track has been provided, and the reason we are put in the material world is to get more material. Have a good “laughsitive” twice a day to ensure regularhilarity.

2Remember, each of us has been given a special gift just for entering,

so you are already a winner!

3 The most powerful tool on the planet today is Tell-a-Vision, in

which I tell a vision to you and you tell a vision to me. That way, if we don’t like the programming we’re getting, we can change the channel.

4Life is like photography—you use the negative to develop. No matter

what adversity you face, be reassured: The Universe has us surrounded. Might as well surrender.

5It’s true that as we go through life thinking heavy thoughts, thought

particles tend to get caught between the ears and cause a condition called “truth decay.” So use mental floss twice a day, and when you’re tempted to practice “tantrum yoga,” remember what we teach in the Swami’s Absurdi-veness Training Class: Don’t get even, get odd.

6If we want world peace, we must let go of our attachments and truly live

like nomads. That’s where I no mad at you and you no mad at me. That way, there’ll surely be nomadness on the planet. Peace begins with each of us. A little peace here, a little peace there, and pretty soon all the peaces will fit together to make one big peace everywhere.

7I know great Earth changes have been predicted for the future, so if

you’re looking to avoid earthquakes, my advice is simple: When you find a fault, don’t dwell on it.

8There’s no need to change the world—all we have to do is toilet

train the world and we’ll never have to change it again.

9 If you’re looking for the key to the Universe, I’ve got some good news

and some bad news. The bad news: There is no key to the Universe. The good news: It was never locked.

10 Finally, everything I’ve told you is channeled. That way, if

you don’t like it, it’s not my fault. But remember… Enlightenment is not a bureaucracy, so you don’t have to go through channels.

Swami Beyondananda is the alter ego of writer and humorist Steve Bhaerman. Find him online at WakeUpLaughing.com.

GUIDELINES FOR ENLIGHTENMENT

by Swami Beyondananda

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healthykids

Ceremonies and rituals are power-ful stuff, bringing people to-gether to magically transform the

ordinary into something extraordinary. Humans everywhere seem hard-wired to ceremonialize, having gathered to mark milestones essential to healthy and happy coexistence since the dawn of recorded time. First Nation Chief Sun Bear has eloquently stated the vital importance of ceremony: “When humans participate in ceremony, they enter a sacred space. Everything outside of that space shrivels in importance. Time takes on a brilliant dimension. Emotions flow more freely. The bodies of participants become filled with the energy of life, and this energy reaches out and blesses the creation around them. All is made new. Every-thing becomes sacred.” Making kid-centric rituals a reality in our own family not only unites and

strengthens us, but also creates unfor-gettable memories. They remind us of how we are journeying together on this adventure called life. The follow-ing ideas, straight from family life, are contributed by Melissa Mendez, of Edina, Minnesota, and Deb Goldman, of Arlington, Massachusetts.

Redress ChristmasEncourage children to make their own Christmas tree, totem or other seasonal object, decorated any way they wish, to display in their room or another special spot. Ask them to take a photo of their festive creation and add it to the family album or notebook.

Benefit: Kids discover their inner cre-ativity and enjoy expressing themselves individually.

Keep a Family NotebookOn New Year’s Eve, make it a custom for every member of the family to write down or draw pictures of their goals and dreams for the coming year. The whole family can then gather to consider, “What do we want to do this year?” It’s fun, too, for parents and sib-lings to recall and reflect upon indi-viduals’ special moments and accom-plishments, so that everyone can join in tooting their own horn in sharing the good news on New Year’s Eve. Here’s another idea: Show home movies of good experiences, while crossing things off last year’s list as “done,” “do over” or “do again.”

Benefit: Make and realize plans for the new year. Letting children know that the family pays attention to and praises what they do each year empowers kids to realize what roles they play in the family. Everyone knows how they are making it possible to accomplish indi-vidual and family goals.

Engage the SensesMaybe Grandfather has a special holi-day cranberry-mango-lime relish that he is now passing along to his grandson in the kitchen tonight. The holidays are all about passing down stories, songs, recipes, readings from sacred texts, and the ritual lighting of the treetop or candles, from one generation to the next. In other seasons, take the whole family for a walk in the woods to col-lect small mementoes of nature’s beauty that won’t disturb the environment. Return with autumn leaves, pine cones, seed pods and berries for a seasonal cornucopia, displayed either in a basket on a table or in an old unused fishbowl or tank. Mostly, kids will remember the time they spent skipping through the forest with their parents.

Benefit: The child is engaged in the process of both being in the moment and experiencing connections and con-tinuity. Introducing repeated rituals like these welcome children to be involved in a family ritual from beginning to end. From year to year, they can anticipate and prepare to participate with relish.

CEREMONIESShared family rituals deepen bonds and make memories.

by Charlotte Eulette

KID-CENTERED


Children in ChargeEngage children in creating ceremonial foods and decorations for any holiday in any season. Teach your children to prepare the special ceremonial foods in the traditional way, so they feel the excite-ment of making it happen themselves. They will feel the connection with past and present when they hand-grind the wheat, bake the bread, and then smile with pride when everyone says how great it tastes. When they hand-roll candles, they’ll discover details about the art of candle making and come to value the intricate process of creation. Also, facilitate children’s natural urge to perform plays by suggesting that they might tell about and dramatize the origins and meaning of the holiday. Have them take charge of making the sets, costumes and props, choosing roles, memorizing lines, shaking rattles or play-ing bongos for background sounds… and getting the adults involved.

Benefits: Assigning children to be center stage in ceremonies builds their confidence and makes them feel more an integral part of the family and community.

Highlight the SeasonsEver hear of Michaelmas? It falls on September 29, and celebrates the fall equinox each year. Its title is derived from the archangel and warrior Michael, who is said to protect us from the dark as light diminishes and winter nights be-come longer. For this glimmering festival, children getting to parade around, wear-ing golden capes and crowns with tiny electric candles on top that light up. In this pageant for their family and commu-nity, children may sing songs, dance and otherwise show their gratitude to Mother Earth as they honor this natural phase of the seasons.

Benefit: Sometimes the dark is some-thing children are afraid of, so in celebrating light and hope, this festival helps dispel their fears, makes them feel stronger and enables them to better understand and celebrate the coming of each season in turn.

Charity Begins at HomeA Jewish harvest festival called Sukkot crosses cultures to teach all kids the key virtue of charity. Dur-ing the fall harvest, Waldorf School kids travel to a nearby farm to select or harvest fruits and vegetables to carry to a local homeless shelter. They also build a three-sided shelter structure with no roof, called a Suk-kah, to symbolize the story of an ar-duous journey of an ancient people who had no food or shelter, while celebrating their spirit and strength to survive. This festival eloquently involves children and teaches them their responsibility for taking care of everyone in the community.

Benefit: Children feel a part of the world and responsible for nurtur-

ing and caring for it, as they realize the importance of shelter and food to sustaining everyone through the generations.

Passing the torch of tradition on to our children, in whatever forms it takes, imbues every occasion with special meaning. Why not begin a new tradi-tion today?

Charlotte Eulette is the international director of the nonprofit Celebrant Foundation & Institute, of Montclair, NJ. The institute educates individuals in the art of facilitating meaningful ceremonies to mark the milestones in people’s lives in ways that reflect and symbolize their values. Reach her at [email protected].


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.

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.

thursday, december 2Uptown Holiday Shop Hop-4:00-9:00pm.ClothingMattersisVERYpleasedtohostCityMiddleSchool&GRPSHighSchoolChoraletoinfusespirit&joyintoyourholidayseason!First20customersreceiveaClothingMattersorganiccottontote.Winoneofseveralraffledrawings!Grand Rapids.616-742-2818.

friday, december 3 Yoga Techniques for Partnering-6:30-8:30pm.WithMimiRay&CarolHendershot.Partneringinyogaisagreattooltodeepenandexpandyourpractice.Learnskillfultechniquestohelpbothyouandyourpartnertobuildastrongeryogapractice.$30.ExpressionsofGraceYoga.Grand Rapids.expressionsofgraceyoga.com.616-361-8580.Guided Healing and Reiki Share-7:00-9:30pm.ForReikipractitioners.Come,enjoy.Pleasebringameditationcushion.Donationonly.HaelenHolisticTreatments.147DiamondSE,Grand Rapids. 616-446-6906.

saturday, december 4Essential Oil Basic Training II & III–10:00am-12:00pm.&1:00-3:00pm.AMcoversbenefitsandhowtousetheEverydayOilCollection.PMclasscoversbenefitsandapplyingtheRaindropTherapyoils.$10withpre-registrationor$20atthedoor.Minerva’sHand.Spring Lake.heavenlyhealings.orgorcall616-443-4225.Pure Meditation Foundation Class -11:00am-12:30 pm. Conquer stress, improveconcentration,findinnerpeace,andsomuchmore.TaughtbytheSelfRealizationMeditationHealingCentre.$49includescontinuingsupport.Pre-registrationrequired.ForadultsinEast Lansing,SelfRealizationCentreMichigan.org.

517-641-6201.Restorative Yoga Workshop w/ Carolyn Heines-2:00-4:00pm.Anurturingandsoothingsequenceofposestocalmthenervesandrechargethebatteries.Aperfectwaytoentertheholidayseason.$30.TheYogaStudio.Grand Rapids. [email protected].

sunday, december 5Awaken to Ego/Discover Your Spirit: Level 1 w/ Dr. David Mutchler-9:45-10:45am.12/12or12/19.BeyondtheEgo,byDr.DavidMutchler,isbasedontheprinciplethatwearespiritualbeingsbynature,whichisaplaceofjoyandpeaceofmind.Explorethislifechangingclass.FountainStreetChurch.Grand Rapids.Tai Chi-12:00pm.Tryitfor2weeksfree.EastWestKarate.Grand Rapids. Contactjonolsen@eastwestkarate.orgor616-532-1193formoreinformation.Gone Native-1:00-5:00pm.Includesabriefdiscussion by John Manilla. Looking forsomethingdifferentforyourholidaygiftgiving?Freeadmittance.NavajoNationJewelryShowatNature’sSpiritualConnections.Grand Rapids. 616-929-4204.The Power of the Archetype in Hindu & Buddhist Symbolisms with Dr. Manoj Chalam-2:00-5:00pm. Discover how knowing andworkingwithyourArchetypesprofoundlyshiftsyourpersonalorprofessionallifeandspiritualpractice.$30.FromtheHeartYoga&TaiChiCenter714WealthyGrand Rapids.616-336-9642,fromtheheartyoga.com

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

tuesday, december 7How to do a Trigger Point Massage-6:00pm.WithDr.MichaelKwast.Learnwhatatriggerpointis,whatcausesthem,howtopreventthem

calendarofevents andhowtogetridofthem.4150E.BeltlineSuite#4Grand Rapids. Limitedtothefirst30callers.Call616-447-9888toRSVP.Intro to Metaphysics & Universal Energy: w/ Dana Glore-Gray-6:00-8:00pm.WhatdoesthetermMetaphysicsreallymean?Learnaboutenergybasics,elementalenergy,healingenergy,colorandlight,ect.OverviewofMetaphysicalBasicsLevel1.$20.CountryWayHealthFoods,Otsego.269-671-4455.

thursday, december 9C.A.R.E. Intensive Begins-12/9-12/12.4-dayNCBTMBandIACET(25CEhr/2.5CEU)authorizedtrainingprovidespracticalappliedaromatherapyskillsforthehealingprofessionalsandnon-professionalsinBibleOils,Vitaflex,Chemistry,RaindropTechnique,EmotionalRelease. Instructor: Kathy Spohn, FCCI,oilsofold.abmp.com,[email protected],221928thStreetSW,Wyoming.616-261-0015.The Feminine Rising-1:00-2:00&7:00-8:00-pm.MeetartistJoanGameandheartheinspirationalstorybehindthecreationofherArtprizesculpture.Joinusaswecelebratethestrengthandbeautyofthefemininespirit!CurvesS.E.203528thStreetS.E.Grand Rapids. 616-252-9999orFacebook.com/CurvesSoutheast.

friday, december 10Holiday Classical Music Concert-7:00pm.MAJICConcertSeriesPresentsEmbellishHandbellEnsemble.Suggested$10donationatthedoor.BethlehemLutheranChurch.250CommerceAveSW.Grand Rapids. grmajic.org.616-456-1741.

saturday, december 11Antoinette Medium & Consultant-9:00am-6:00pm.AtCJ’sStudioSalon.Byappointment.5286PlainfieldAve.NE,Grand Rapids.616-364-9191.Reiki Level II Class–10:00am-1:00pm.WithReikiMasterConnieCunningham.Thisclassistaughtintwopartswithtwoattunements.Follow-upclassDecember18th.$175withpracticemanual.Grand Rapidshaelenholistictreatments.com.616-446-6906.Reiki I & II class-10:00am-4:00pm.IntroductiontoReiki,becomeattuned,andlearnthebasichandpositionstogivetreatmentstoothersandself.Classfee$225includesregistrationdepositof$50requiredaweekbeforeclass.Minerva’sHand.Spring Lake.Visitheavenlyhealings.orgorcall616-443-4225toregister.

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BusiNess oPPortuNitiesCURRENTLY PUBLISHING NATURAL A W A K E N I N G S M A G A Z I N E S– B e p a r t o f a d y n a m i c f r a n c h i s e dp u b l i s h i n g n e t w o r k t h a t i s h e l p i n gtotransformthewayweliveandcareforourselves.AsaNatural Awakeningspublisher,yourmagazinewill help thousands of readers to makepositivechangesintheirlives,whilepromotinglocalpractitionersandprovidersofnatural,Earth-friendlylifestyles.Youwillbecreatingahealthiercommunitywhilebuildingyourown financial securityworking fromyourhome.ForsaleinAustin,TX;Lexington,KY;Manhattan,NY;Pensacola,FL;SouthwestVA; and Ven tu ra /San t a Ba rba ra , CA.Callfordetails239-530-1377.

for sAleHouse, Barn & 7 acre FarmonLowellschoolsbus line. 2,500 sq. ft. Rustic cedar sided NewEnglandsaltboxwithcedarsided2-storybarn.4-bedrooms, 2½baths.Large countrykitchenwith island and walk-in brick fireplace, widepine plank floors, wood ceilings & beams.Living/family room has large stone fireplace$289,000.Call616-443-8446.

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].

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

sPAce for reNtTreatment Room for Rent. Full or part-time,must have your own clientele. 5286 PlainfieldAve NE. Contact Cynthia at 616-460-7331 [email protected].

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.

Prosperity with a Purpose-2:00-4:00pm.“TheHeathofFinances”willbepresentedbyBarbaraBadolatiinthisfreeseminar.Discoverhowyoucanincreaseyourwealthwhilesharingwithothersapathwaytohealthandwellbeing.MuskegonYogaCenter.Norton Shores.Call616-638-5625toregister.

sunday, december 12Advance Reiki class-10:00am-4:00pm.ReadytoadvanceyourReikiskills?LearnhowtoworkwithReikionahigherlevel.Classfee$275.Pre-registrationisrequiredwith$50depositaweekpriortoclassMinerva’sHand.Spring Lake. Visitheavenlyhealings.orgorcall616-443-4225toregister.

monday, december 13Natural Approaches to Sleep Disorders-7:00-8:30pm.JoinDr.DanGleasonforaneveningdiscussiononthemostcommoncausesofsleepdisordersandactionsyoucantakerightawaytogetabetternight’srest.Free.BlueBirdCancerRetreatCenter.Spring Lake.616-846-5410.

tuesday, december 14Fibromyalgia Conference-GuestSpeaker,MichaelKwastDC,fromPeakPerformanceChiropractic.SaintMary’sWegeCenter,300LafayetteSE.Grand Rapids.ConferenceRoom#14.

wednesday, december 15Metaphysical Basics Level 1 Session# 2-Atotalof6weeksoflessons.WhatisMetaphysics,EnergyBasics,ElementalEnergy,ColorandLight,MeditationBasics&Chi?Thisisagreatwaytoexploremetaphysicswithonlineclasses.$75.Delton. Visitreikiconnect.comorcall269-671-4455formoreinformation.Reiki Share Group- 5:30-7:30 pm. JoinotherReikipractitionersofalllevelstoshareexperiences,aguidedvisualization,sendReikidistantlyandbothgiveandreceiveReiki.JanAtwood,LLC.Grand Rapids. 616-915-4144.

thursday, december 16Stress Management for the Holidays Workshop-6:00 pm. Event is FREE with advancedregistrationanddonationofnon-perishablefooditem.O’BrienFamilyChiropracticCenter,1519E.RiverRd.Ste.BMuskegon.231-744-6400.Handmade Holiday Trunk Show- 6:00-9:00pm.JoinBootyfulBabyBoutiqueandotherlocalartisansforarelaxedopenhousetoseetheirhandmade,boutique-qualityproductsforwomen,babiesandchildren.Nosalespitchesorpressuretobuy.Refreshmentswillbeserved.Discountsandgiveaways.7275BittersweetCourt,Allendale.www.bootyfulbabyboutique.comor616-892-1525.

saturday, december 18Essential Oil Training IV & V-10:00am-12:00pm.&1:00–3:00pm.AMdiscussesEmotionalClearingoilsanditsbenefits.PMcovershowtouseSpiritualJourneyoils.Cost$10withpre-registrationor$20atthedoor.Minerva’sHand.Spring Lake.Visitheavenlyhealings.orgorcall616-443-4225toregister.Reiki Level II Class–10:00am-1:00pm.WithReikiMasterConnieCunningham.Thisclass

istaughtintwopartswithtwoattunements.$175withpracticemanual.Grand Rapids haelenholistictreatments.com.616-446-6906.

sunday, december 19Celebrate Winter Solstice Yoga-8:00-10:00am.JoinPeterViolinotowelcometheWinterseasonwithyoga!Meditative,rejuvenatingandpeacefulyogaposes.Suitableforalllevelsoffitness.Donationsacceptedfor“ReadMuskegon”program.MuskegonYogaCenter.Muskegon.VisitMuskegonYoga.comorcall1-231-668-4181toregister.The Coptic Center Sunday Series: Christmas Service-6:00pm.EnjoytheenergiesoftheChristmasseasonwithcenteringandthemusicofKarenLauck.DirectorJohnDavisspeakson“BirthingtheChristLight”&CopticMinisterOrtrunFranklinpresents“ChistmasJoy”.Loveoffering.TheCopticCenter.Grand Rapids.616-531-1339.

saturday, december 25Christmas morning Pure Meditation Gathering-10:15am.Wewarmlywelcomeeveryone,ofallfaithsandpractices,tojoinus,sharinginMataYogananda’sMessageandBlessing.Nocharge.SelfRealizationMeditationHealingCentre.Bath.(Monday-Saturday,not24th-27th),formoreinfovisitSelfRealizationCentreMichigan.org.517-641-6201.

friday, december 31Special World Day of Prayer Service-6:30am.JoinCopticCenterDirectorJohnDavisforamorningofprayerasthisservicebeginsatthesametimewithpeoplearoundtheworldforplanetarytransformation&upliftment.LoveOffering.TheCopticCenter.Grand Rapids.616-531-1339.Celebrate: First Night by Harriet Ziefert-4:00-5:00pm.Kids!JoinusforstoriesandactivitiescelebratingthebeginningoftheNewYearincludingcreatingfireworks,paintingsandgettingyourfacepaintedbyGrandmaTurtle.Freeandopentothepublic.MainLibrary.111LibraryStNE,Grand Rapids. grpl.org.616-988-5400.

saturday January 1, 2011Welcome The New Year-6:00pm.JoinusNewYearsDayeveningasCopticCenterdirectorJohnDavisspeakson“ThePowerofGoalSetting,PersonalandPlanetary”andCopticMinisterDeniseIwaniwshares“RealizingyourPotential”.LoveOffering.TheCopticCenter.Grand Rapids. 616-531-1339.

If every day is an awakening, you will never grow old. You will just keep growing. ~ Gail Sheehy


ongoingevents

Zen Meditation w/Patrick Duiven-7:00-8:30 pm. 1 hr. of sitting meditation andwalking meditation combo, followed by30min.ofvariousgroupactivities tobedeterminedby thegroup itself.FountainStreetChurch.Kripalu Yoga with Marro Spehar-7:30pm.Gentle/Moderate.Drop-inswelcome.Formoredetailsvisitourwebsiteatsevayoga.net.SevaYogaStudio,2213WealthySte220,East Grand Rapids. 616-458-2541

tuesdayGentle Hatha Yoga with Mitch Coleman-7:45-9:00am&9:15-10:30am.Drop-inswelcome.VisitWhiteRiverYoga.com formore information.ClassesmeetatWhiteRiverYogaStudio,8724FerrySt.Montague. 231-740-6662.Free Natural Health and Cooking Classes-6:30pm.EveryTuesday(thruDecember7thtoresumeJanuary2011).freeevent.NaturopathicCommunityCenter.Mt. Pleasant.989-773-3636.nite-mtp.com/nccmain.htm“A Course In Miracles”-7:00-8:30pm.Studygroupscanbejoinedatanytime.Theyareconductedonanexperientialbasis.Afreeloveofferingisappreciated.UnityChurchofPeace.Ada.

wednesday50% Off BioMeridian Assessments-State-of-the-artprofilingandtrackingofall58meridiansinthebodywithtake-homecolor-codedchartstoassesshealthprogress.Callforanappointment.Grand Rapids.616-365-9176.A Course In Miracles-9:30-11:00am.Studygroupscanbejoinedatanytime.Theyareconductedonanexperientialbasis.Afreeloveofferingisappreciated.UnityChurchofPeace.Ada.Kripalu Yoga with Marro Spehar-10:30am.Gentleand7:30pm.Gentle/Moderate.Drop-inswelcome.Fordetailsvisitsevayoga.net.SevaYogaStudio,2213WealthySte220,East Grand Rapids.616-458-2541Essential Oil Trainings-6:00-8:00pm.Fivetrainingswillrotatethroughoutthemonth–TherapeuticGrade,EverydayOils,RaindropTherapy,EmotionalClearing,&SpiritualJourneyOils.$10w/pre-registration.$20atthedoorforeachclass.4434KnappStNE.Grand Rapids.CallJodiJenksat616-443-4225toregister.Course in Miracles taught by Cindy Berry-Addis-6:00pm.TheHealingCenter.332S.Lincoln,Lakeview.989-352-6500.Zen Meditation Group - 6:30-7:30 pm.Everyone welcome. I f you are new tomeditationpleasearrive10min.earlyforabrief introduction.$5suggesteddonation.NaturopathicCommunityCenter.Mt. Pleasant. 989-486-5782.thedharmafarm.comYoga-7:00pm.Tryitfor2weeksfree.East

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. 616-827-1828Spilled Ink: The Book Club for the Rest of Us-11/6-2/28.Signup,readtenbooks,andwinprizes!Agreatwayforgrown-upstobeatthewinterblues.Free.AllGrandRapidsPublicLibrarylocations.Findoutmoreatgrpl.org/spilledinkor616-988-5400.

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.The Coptic Center Sunday Series–6:00pm.Anongoingseriesofinspirationalspeakers,centeringandthepianomusicofKarenLauckasweexploreUniversalTruths.TheCopticCenter.org.LoveOffering.TheCopticCenter,0-381LakeMichiganDrNW,Grand Rapids.616-531-1339.

monday50% Off BioMeridian Assessments-State-of-the-artprofilingandtrackingofall58meridiansinthebodywithtake-homecolor-codedchartstoassesshealthprogress.Callforanappointment.Grand Rapids.616-365-9176.Yoga-Beginning-9:00am.Thisiswhereyoustart.Learnthebasicposes,strengthen,breathawarenessandrelax.FormoreinformationvisitSmilingLotusYoga.comorcallSmilingLotusYoga,103E.LudingtonAve,Ludington. 231-852-0849.La Leche League of Oceana County-10:00am.MeetingsareheldattheShelbyUnitedMethodistChurchthesecondMondayofthemonth.Childrenarewelcome.Hesperia.Formeetingand/orbreastfeedinginfocallAmandaat231-861-2535.Intermediate Hatha Yoga with Mitch Coleman–6:15-7:30pm.Drop-inswelcome.VisitWhiteRiverYoga.comformoreinformation.ClassesmeetatWhiteRiverYogaStudio,8724FerrySt.Montague.231-740-6662.

WestKarate.Grand Rapids.Contactjonolsen@eastwestkarate.orgor616-532-1193formoreinformation.

thursdayHolistic Moms- 11:00 am-12:00pm.3rdThursday.FreeEvent–Support&infoforparentsinterestedinraisinghappy,healthyandholistickids.NaturopathicCommunityCenter.Mt. Pleasant.989-773-3636.nite-mtp.com/nccmain.htmAdvanced Hatha Yoga with Mitch Coleman–6:15-7:30pm.Drop-inswelcome.VisitWhiteRiverYoga.comformoreinformation.ClassesmeetatWhiteRiverYogaStudio,8724FerrySt.Montague. 231-740-6662.

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,2213WealthySte220, East Grand Rapids. 616-458-2541Yoga-7:00pm.Tryitfor2weeksfree.EastWestKarate.Grand Rapids.Contactjonolsen@eastwestkarate.orgor616-532-1193formoreinformation.

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.

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


...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 anduncompromising quality. See ad page 5.

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!See ad page 41.

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.

AyurvedAmiNdful Body trANsformAtioNChad: [email protected] online at: myzconnection.myzrii.com Click “Join” to get preferred customer rates

How are you getting your dailysupply of Haritaki, Jujube,Schizandra, Ginger, Amla,Turmeric,Tulsi,GreenTea,Guggul,and Gymnema? Experience whatAyurvedic specialists around theworldalreadyknow!

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.


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] ad page 9.

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.See ad page 41.

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.

BArBArA ZieliNsKi,iNterfAitH PrActitioNer233 Washington, Suite 208, Grand Haven616-502-2078www.barbarazielinski.vepweb.com

OrdainedMinister,NADACertifiedAcupuncture DetoxificationSpecialist and Reiki Master.Cultivating healing and balancethrough Auricular Acupuncturefor Addictions, Reiki, IntegralWorkshops/Coaching, SpiritualCare/Counseling, Life PassageRituals/Ceremonies.

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.


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.

HeAl witH KAtieKatie Ray269-804-9307www.healwithkatie.com

KatieRayisaCertifiedMassageTherapistandReikiMaster. Offering deep tissue and medical massage,UsuiReiki treatments,andhealingattunements.See ad page 39.

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 2.

sustAiNABledesiGN ceNter

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

Enrich your home andwork 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 waterbirthing program in SouthwestMichigan.OurCertifiedNurseMidwives assist the motherduring water birth delivery, incollaboration & consultationwith our obstetricians. Calltoday to learn more. See ad page 5.

natural awakenings magazine december 2010

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