natural awakenings magazine ~ march 2009

1NaturalWestMichigan.com

HEALTHY LIVING HEALTHY PLANET

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MARCH 2009

greenFOOD

a natural nutrient boost

HOW PETSHELP KIDSthey comfort,

teach & delight

7 Tips to

Increase

Brain Power

HOLISTIC

PETCARE

natural approaches for health and

well-being

West Michigan Edition | NaturalWestMichigan.com FREE

2 March 2009


Natural Awakenings is your guide to a healthier, more

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increase Brain power 8By Cari Draft Elliott

six-legged runs 14Best Buddy Workouts by Barb Amrhein

When pets Go Natural 16by Victoria L. Freeman

Green Foods 20a Natural Nutrient Boost by Dian Freeman

Why pets help Kids 22by Bill Strickland

Natural Burial 24honoring life in death by Sandy Rogovin

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4 March 2009

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At our house, when we talk about our child, we’re talking about our dog, Thai, who

graces this month’s cover in his organic cotton Save Mother Earth finery. Just as everyone’s children are special, we consider Thai more than a typical dog. Thai arrived in our lives 2-1/2 years ago as an 8-week old pup. Each time we introduced him to a new toy, he picked up on its name within minutes; to this day he remembers them all. Thai is not without some ailments. To date,

he has had to have several teeth surgically removed. He gets allergy shots every two weeks and sometimes has such bad reactions to the vaccines that his little face has blown up to the size of a tennis ball. Usually this occurs at night when our visits get classified as “emergencies.” So, we’re ecstatic and curious to learn about more gentle, natural healthcare op-tions for animals this month. Lately, Thai has wound up on the injured reserve list due to an athletic injury to his knee. Imagine that, knee replacement for a two-year-old. Ap-parently when Thai gives 110 percent on the playground, it takes a toll on tiny joints. We’re definitely interested in preventive alternative care there. At the moment Thai is curled up beside us atop a heating pad. His unconditional love melts our hearts. We wouldn’t trade our high main-tenance wonder for anything. Animals can make us feel like nothing else in the world matters, can’t they? In the midst of a bad day, they look up with those big eyes, give a sweet lick and troubles flee. We recently went to see the movie, Marley and Me, ready for a good comedy. By the end of the film, there wasn’t a dry eye in the house. A heart-tugging show about a dog can get to even the toughest guy; men and their dogs enjoy such a phenomenal bond. With most men, it’s usu-ally a larger dog, but in our house a 5-pound Chihuahua has our big guy wrapped around his small paw. Thai is glad to be Natural Awakenings’ poster child this month, reminding our community of the need to be increasingly conscious of how we can daily do better for Mother Earth and all its creatures. It’s clear that the path we’ve been on is simply not working, and changes are rightly in the wind. To start, all of us can cut back some on our driving and other energy use. We can switch to greener, nontoxic products. We can patronize the many fresh local food stores and Michigan farmers’ markets. Everyday we have dozens of opportunities to do what is really best for ourselves and our families, our communities and the world. By start-ing with one small change and practicing it until it’s a habit, then trying another and another, we can make a difference. We must be the ones to make the difference now because if not us, then who will?

To the health of us all,

Amy, Kyle and Thai


newsbriefs

Board Game TourneyBenefits Epilepsy CouncilSaint Mary’s Hospital is hosting a “Monopoly” Game

Tournament for the Epilepsy Council of West Michigan. Join State Rep. Robert Dean 11:30 a.m. March 28 in the Wave Room at Celebration Cinema North for an afternoon of fun. Cost is $20. The Epilepsy Council of West Michigan has set a goal of raising $10,000 for the event. Two preliminary rounds of 90 minutes each will be played to determine the finalists. A final round will decide the tournament winners. A variety of prizes from area retail-ers will be given away including a free room painting from Tony Bierens Painting. A silent auction is also scheduled. Celebration Cinema North is located at 2121 Celebra-tion Ave, in Grand Rapids. Players may register at Epile-psyCouncil.org or at the event. Contact Matt Eichhorn, 616-949-1303 or email [email protected].

Conference AddressesPersonal Transformation

in a Changing WorldThe Coptic Fellowship International

will host a dynamic and transfor-mational weekend June 12 – 14 for its 35th Annual Conference to be held at Olivet College. “America’s Foremost Psychic Researcher” Dick Sutphen will

speak on “The Shift” scheduled to take place December 21, 2012. Sutphen, author of 21 books and more than 300 CDs, is president of the American Board of Hypnotherapy. He has appeared on more than 400 radio and television programs and has his own weekly web show at Contact-TalkRadio.com Also included in this year’s lineup of featured speak-ers is Rabbi Chava Bahle, best known for her good humor, warmth and ability to bless and welcome people of all faiths and background. Bahle will share through music her devo-tion to inspirational preaching, storytelling and interfaith teaching. Denise Iwaniw, a Coptic Minister, author and intuitive counselor, will speak on The Voice of Love & Wis-dom of the Christian Mystics. Iwaniw lectures and teaches in the U.S. and abroad in a wide variety of areas, including psychic development, paths to spiritual enlightenment and Reiki. Rounding the list of conference speakers is Coptic Fellowship International Director John Davis, and Coptic Ministers Janis Campbell and Eric Webster. For more details including Conference pricing, lodging and meal plans, call 616-531-1339 or visit TheCopticCenter.org/Conferences.

Rhythmic Practices of the Frame DrumDrumming is an ancient technology for directly synchro-

nizing the mind/body complex to access higher levels of consciousness. According to Barb Pitcher and Amy Oak, it is unequaled in its power to open and maintain a state of ritual awareness. Pitcher and Oak will teach Magic of the Frame Drum, Tambourine 1, on March 21 at 3226 Hart Road in Twin Lake. The cost is $75. The full day workshop will explore our innate relationship to rhythm. “Rhythm is the primary structuring power of life in this planet,” says Pitcher. “The first sound we hear is the pulse of our mother’s blood and drumming is the musical expression of this primal truth.” The frame drum is the oldest known musical instrument in history. Since ancient times the grain sieve and the frame drum have been thought to share a common origin. The frame drum is central to historical forms of shamanism, as the sha-man’s voice and tool. The day-long event will teach the basic strokes on tambourine, putting together intricate patterns and rhythms and introduce the healing, rhythmic practices of the frame drum. No musical experience is required. To register, call Pitcher at 231-828-5666 or email [email protected]

Note of Thanks Supports Governor’s VisionThe Michigan chapter of the Sierra Club is urging residents

to “take action to thank Governor (Jennifer) Granholm” for her plan to move Michigan towards a clean energy future. In her State of the State address, Granholm says she will send all proposed new coal plants in Michigan back to the drawing board, telling the DEQ to determine if the power is needed and if there aren’t better ways to meet that need. Her vision includes a 45 percent reduction in fossil fuel dependence by 2020, and encouraging renewable energy such as solar, wind and new battery technology. Granholm further called for Michigan to weatherize 100,000 homes and 1,000 schools, which will create jobs in energy efficiency and reduce our energy consumption. It is a bold vision for the state’s energy future, says Sierra Club’s Lee Sprague. “A little note of thanks can go a long way,” Sprague says. “The Governor needs to know that she has widespread support in her leadership on this issue. Her action sends a clear message that we will put our families, public health and the ability to compete for 21st century jobs before devotion to the failing status-quo.” Sierra Club Michigan Chapter is located at 109 East Grand River Ave., in Lansing. Contact Sprague at 517- 484-2372.

6 March 2009

Dr. Michael Burcon

Yoga Weekend BringsOpposites into Harmony

From the Heart Yoga Center wel-comes Jamie and Justin Allison

back for a transformational weekend of Anusara Yoga March 13-15. “Em-brace the paradox of this embodied life and live in the fullness of time”, is the weekend theme. Jamie Allison is known for her clarity, knowledge and dedication. Justin Allison will be lead-ing an evening of chanting from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. on Saturday that is open to all levels. Participants may sign up for just one section or all three days. From the Heart Yoga is located at 940

East Fulton Street, in Grand Rapids. To register, call 616- 336-9642 or visit FromtheHeartYoga.com. See ad page 10.

Festival Taps intoLocal Natural ResourcesSpring is sweet at the Blandford Nature Center’s Sugarbush

Festival, which continues every weekend throughout the month. This unique festival will show how maple syrup is brought from tree to table. Through guided or self-led tours down the Sugarbush trail, the history and experience of tree tapping will be unraveled. A visit to the ‘sugar shack’ is open for guests to see firsthand how sap is transformed into syrup. Fresh, pure maple syrup, as well as other locally made maple treats, can be purchased at Blandford’s General Store.Blandford’s syrup will also be available to sample at the annual Pancake Breakfast on Saturday, March 28 at CA Frost Environ-mental Academy in Grand Rapids. This popular event features games and crafts for children. Senior discounts are available. That day, Blandford’s Heritage Village, Interpretive and Wildlife Centers will be open as well. Admission is free every weekend except March 28, when admission will be $5 for adults and $3 for children. Admission to the Pancake Breakfast is $8 for adults, $5 for children under 12 and $7 for seniors 60 and older. Cost includes the festival admission. Large group and school tours are available during weekdays when Blandford Environmental Education Program sixth graders (BEEPS) can lead younger children through the Sugarbush. For more information visit BlandfordNatureCenter.org, email [email protected] or call 616-735-6240. 3143 Milo NW, Grand Rapids.

Zen Community Welcomes Newcomers to Spring EventsGreat Wave Zen Sangha, of Ludington, opens its door for a

deepened practice March 26 through 29 under the guid-ance of teacher Myoyu Roshi, abbot of the Great Plains Zen Center and Myoshinji Subtle Mind Temple.

Located on the shore of Lake Michigan, the Great Wave Zen Sangha is a small community affiliated with guiding teacher Susan Myoyu Andersen, Roshi. Great Wave hosts a number of activities, including twice-weekly meditation, monthly half-day retreats, and at least two multi-day retreats each year. Addition-ally, Dharma talks by senior priest John Gendo Wolff take place on the last Sunday of each month, and are typically followed by an informal question-and-answer period. Great Wave is located at 115 W Loomis St, Ludington. For more information, call 231-843-7116, 231-845-5559 and visit GreatWave.org.

Earth Day CelebrationParty for The Planet is a national Earth Day celebration

that will take place at zoos and aquariums around the country on April 18. The John Ball Zoo in Grand Rapids will play host to more than 5,000 families.

Demonstrations and vendor booths will focus on earth-friendly products, services and initiatives

available in West Michigan. As a leader in the field of conserva-tion and green practices John Ball and all

zoos and aquariums encourage everyone to attend. For more information and detail, call Krys at 616-336-4374 or email [email protected].

Don’t Shrug OffCervical MisalignmentsThroughout March, local chiropractor Dr. Michael Burcon

will offer new patients free one-hour medical massages. Burcon will also be offering up-per cervical specific exams at the Women’s Expo March 13 – 15 at the DeVos Place in Grand Rapids. He says many patients have problems with this area because the head, which weighs as much as a bowling ball, rests so precariously on the top of the first cervical vertebra, which it-self only weighs a few ounces. Called atlas, it is also known as the ‘yes’ bone because the head rocks back and forth on its two articulations when we nod. When the skull slips partially off from one of these joints, pressure is applied to the brain stem, causing us to be “off our rocker,” says Burcon. Upper cervical chiropractic can help “get our heads on straight,” he says. Burcon will also be passing out copies of his Health Talk and Health Talk II DVDs as well as complimentary signed copies of the inspirational book, What Time Tuesday? from James and Rhonda Tomasi. Burcon Cervical Specific Chiropractic is located at 3501 Lake Eastbrook Blvd., SE Suite 252, East Lake Office Center, Grand Rapids. Call 616-575-9990 or visit BurtonChiropractic.com.


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Gluten Free Fair is Easy to DigestNew estimates report that celiac affects one out of 100 people, both children

and adults. This common genetic autoimmune disease affects people when they consume any kind of gluten product. Gluten is found in wheat, barley, rye and oats. For those who suffer from it, Utopian Marketplace in Montague will hold its first gluten-free fair, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. March 21. Free samples will be available and nutrition specialists will be on hand to walk customers through the store to educate themselves about products and ensure that families are eating foods that support their dietary needs. A 10 percent discount will be given for all gluten-free products sold that day, including food, body care items and supplements. All attendees are encouraged to bring in their favorite gluten-free recipe and in return receive a 10 percent discount coupon good for any gluten-free item during the month of April. Utopian Marketplace is located at 8832 Water St, in Montague. Call 231-894-9530 and visit. UtopianMarketplace.com. See ad page 21.

“Pets are humanizing. They remind us we have an obligation and responsibility to preserve and nurture and care for all life.”

- James Cromwell.

8 March 2009

I N C R E A S EBrain PowerIndividuals who seek to improve mental cognition, increase memory, and enhance alertness will find that these seven quick simple ways help their brain function better.1. Exercise. More than 20 percent of the body’s blood and oxygen go directly to the brain. Exercise, especially cardio training, increases the flow of blood and oxygen to the brain, keeping it a well-oiled machine. Many yoga poses, like downward-facing dog, are specifically geared to get blood to the brain faster.2. Hydrate. For a little energy boost, drink water instead of reaching for caffeinated beverages. The caffeine in coffee and soda may temporarily create a state of alertness, but in the long run it dehydrates the muscles and constricts blood vessels resulting in fatigue. Water is a simple way to keep your mind alert and refreshed. 3. Find stimulation. Decorate your work area in bright colors or switch your font color to something more vivid to help work through boredom and fatigue. 4. Think happy thoughts. The brain, particularly memory, doesn’t respond well to stress. If you’re tense or unhappy, you’re not likely to retain informa-tion or stay alert. Try to eliminate stressful influences from your life and workplace. 5. Surf the Internet. A recent study found that searching the web stimulated centers in the brain that controlled decision-making and complex rea-soning. A simple task like searching the web ap-pears to enhance brain circuitry.6. Learn something new. Few individuals find the time to master new skills or even read a new book that isn’t for work or class. Learning a foreign language, a new handcraft, a recipe, or challenging yourself with an unfamiliar subject all increase brain power.7. Rest. Almost nothing is as important to proper brain functioning as sleep. The implementation of several of these suggestions may result in a noticeable difference in how your brain functions. Cari Draft Elliott, owner of EcoTrek Fitness, is an ACE-Certified Personal Trainer who makes “house calls”. Visit oneononefit-girl.com or [email protected]. Follow Cari on Twitter at twitter.com/fitgirlcari. See ad page 10.

By Cari Draft Elliott


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

globalbriefs

Floating SmokestacksSea Diesel ShakedownWhile cars have long been subjected to pollution limits, standards for other engines have lagged behind; some of the last holdouts are oceangoing vessels. Now, new international standards adopt-ed by member states of the International Maritime Organization will close this loophole, cutting pollution from cruise

and container ships and other vessels by 80 to 90 percent. Recent U.S. legislation enables our country to participate. Health data in a recent Environmental Defense Fund report documents how millions of people in hundreds of U.S. coastal communities are at risk from ship-ping emissions. Smog-forming diesel particulates that can lodge deep in lungs have been linked to cancer. The victory complements new Environmental Protection Agency rules man-dating cuts in soot and smog-forming pollution from diesel barges, ferries and trains. Collectively, the standards are expected to prevent tens of thousands of deaths and hospitalizations each year.

Cluck & CoverHumane Treatment of Farm Animals on a RollCalifornia recently joined Arizona, Colorado, Florida and Oregon in outlawing the con-finement of veal calves and/or pregnant pigs in crates so small they can’t turn around. Cali-fornia’s law also encompasses millions of egg-laying hens, typi-cally crowded into small wire cages stacked to the rafters in the name of efficiency and profit. The Humane Society of the United States is leading the charge to halt such animal abuses and expects national reverberations. The message is clear. Consum-ers care about the source of their food and how it is raised and are willing to set limits, even if industry isn’t. Advocates point to data showing that when hens have more space, rates of salmonella and other contaminants that can hurt humans are lower. Support from food safety groups includes the Center for Food Safety, Center for Science in the Public Interest and Consumer Federation of America. Proponents of the improved standard estimate it will raise the price of an egg by a penny. Close confinement has been a standard feature of U.S. animal production for 50 years. Now, consumers are sending a signal to producers that, “They had better change their ways, or they will be put out of business,” says Princeton Professor Peter Singer.

Source: Grist.org.

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“Pets are not our whole life, but they make our lives whole.”

- Author Unknown

10 March 2009

Wireless E-readerAmazon’s Kindle Feels Like Reading a Book“Books are the last bastion of analog,” says Jeff Bezos, CEO of Amazon.com. So, he’s set out to accelerate the

digital revolution in how readers read, writers write and publishers publish. Although not the first on the market,

the handheld Kindle e-reader ups the ante by going wireless. With the dimensions of a paperback and weighing just 10.3 ounces, it even emulates a book’s binding. Because it has a reflective surface, more like paper than a comput-er monitor, the screen has the clarity of a printed page, and its type can be instant-ly enlarged. The Kindle runs cool and quiet for up to 30 hours per battery charge. Currently, readers can wirelessly download 190,000 titles, plus blogs, maga-zines and newspapers, for a low cost, tree-free. Bestsellers and new releases can be had for less than $10. Users can even venture out onto the Web for content. Remarks Bezos, “The vision is that you should be able to get any book—not just any book in print, but any book that’s ever been in print—on this device in less than a minute.”

Faith on the HillChanging Profile of Congress Members’ Religious AffiliationsA recent Pew Forum on Religion & Public Life study shows that in terms of religious affiliation, Congress looks like the rest of the country. Although a majority of the members of the new, 111th Congress are Protestants, like the nation, the body is more religiously diverse than it was 50 years ago. One major difference is that members of Con-gress are more likely than the general public to declare their affiliation with a particular religion. While both houses share a similar religious profile, differences show up at the party level. Just over 70 percent of congressional Republicans are Protestant, com-pared with 43 percent of Democrats. The portion of Democratic members who are Catholic, about 37 percent, outstrips the Republicans, at 21 percent. Jews account for less than 2 percent of the U.S. adult population, but make up more than 8 per-cent of Congress, overwhelmingly in the Democratic camp. Changes from 1961 to 2009 show a collective drop in Protestants by about 19 percent, with a corresponding increase in Catholics and Jews of more than 11 and 6 percent, respectively. The forum also notes that the 110th Congress seated the first two Muslim and first two Buddhist members in the institution’s history.

Giving Back Business PhilanthropyMore than a quarter of wealthy business owners recently surveyed by SunTrust Bank said they have allocated funds for green investment. Nearly a third have personally invested in green funds. Pollution and en-ergy policy are their two main drivers, complemented by a personal desire to do good. Sixty-nine percent of the two hundred business owners canvassed said they plan to maintain their current level of environmental giving, even if the eco-nomic downturn moderately affects their businesses.

Source: GreenBiz.com.

globalbriefs


innate Fountain of youthA clean, active life that includes regular exercise

and a diet of the right foods may, indeed, hold the key to a virtual fountain of youth, reports Profes-sor Dean Ornish and his team from the Preventive Medicine Research Institute in California. The key to “young living,” they say, appears to be an en-

zyme called telomerase, which is produced in a healthy body and believed to help repair and protect DNA. The small study recruited 30 men, asking them to take participate in a three-month trial of comprehensive lifestyle changes. Program requirements included a diet high in fruit and vegetables, vitamin supplements, an exercise regimen and classes in stress management, relaxation techniques and breathing exercises. Men who had sufficient data for analysis showed an increase of 29 percent of telomerase in their blood and a decrease of LDL (bad) cholesterol; they also reported fewer intrusive thoughts causing stress. More studies are needed.

Source: BBC News, 2008.

reducing stressaffects allergies Ohio State University Medical Center researchers have

discovered that stress and anxiety can linger and have a major impact on a person’s allergies, making aller-gic reactions worse the next day. It’s an important finding, because medications containing allergy-blocking antihista-mines don’t deal with such “delayed” symptoms caused by weakened immunity. More, the study revealed that stressed patients often are unresponsive to treatments such as antihistamines. Allergic reactions are the fifth most common chronic disease in America; medical costs to treat them can reach $3.4 billion a year. Researchers hope that the results of the new study will alert practitioners and patients to the adverse effects of stress, which may seemingly resolve within minutes or hours after an attack, only to unexpectedly reappear the next day. Learning to manage psycho-logical stress should have a positive effect on the immune system and help keep allergies under control.

Grandma’s PenicillinJapanese scientists have

found that chicken soup,

long a popular home remedy

for the common cold, may

have a new role. they

found that the soup helps,

alongside medication and

other measures, in fighting

high blood pressure. Chicken

parts, such as legs, often

used in the soup, contain

collagen, known to help

decrease blood pressure.

Source: Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 2008.

Brain insuranceVitamin B

12, a nutrient found in meat,

fish and milk, may protect against

loss of brain volume in older people,

according to a recent study published

in the journal, Neurology.

healthbriefs

Chinese ProverbIf there is light in the soul

There will be beauty in the person

If there is beauty in the person

There will be harmony in the house

If there is harmony in the house

There will be order in the nations

If there is order in the nations

There will be peace in the world

12 March 2009

healthbriefs

Cocoa Mulch May be Toxic to PetsMany homeowners use cocoa bean shells, a byproduct of

chocolate production, as a landscaping mulch. They like its rich brown color and biodegradability. They also appreciate

its chocolate aroma—and so do some pets. Dogs, particularly, may be attracted by the smell and eagerly consume the mulch. “Some dogs will eat large quantities of fresh mulch, which can lead to intestinal upset,” notes Dr. Steven Hansen, a vet-erinary toxicologist with the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) “If the amount is high enough, it

can lead to increased heart rates and trembling.” Dogs metabo-lize methylxanthine compounds slowly, so symptoms may take hours or days to manifest. Hansen says death is “very unlikely with current products, because the residual theobromine is very low.” Consequently, the ASPCA calls for caution. Cocoa mulch contains caffeine and theobromine, methylxanthine compounds to which dogs and cats are particularly sensitive.

In 2003, the ASPCA investigated cocoa mulch in-gestion in 16 dogs. Their study, still posted on their website, reported vomiting in 50 percent of the cases; tremors in 33 percent (with “large or significant” amounts of mulch in-gested); tachycardia (rapid heart rate); and hyperactivity or diarrhea in 17 percent of the cases, but no clinical signs of illness in 33 percent of the dogs. Cats can also be sickened from ingesting the mulch, but are less likely to eat it. The ASPCA notes that the organization “has not received any cases involving animal deaths due to cocoa mulch ingestion.” The ASPCA’s bottom-line advice: Avoid using cocoa mulch anywhere unsupervised dogs roam, and don’t let a dog eat any mulch while out on a leash. If you suspect a pet has eaten any toxic substance, immediately contact a veterinarian or the ASPCA’s Animal Poi-son Control Center at 888-426-4435. View the ASPCA cocoa mulch study at ASPCA.org/site/PageServer?pagename=pro_apcc_publicationscocoa.


Grapes protect the heartCould eating grapes fight high blood pressure and possibly reduce other factors

linked to heart disease? A new University of Michigan Cardiovascular Center study suggests just that, revealing tantalizing clues to the heart-healthy power of grapes. The study fed laboratory rats a powder of regular table grapes (a blend of

green, red and black grapes, containing the skin, flesh and seeds), mixed into a diet that was either low or high in

salt. The control group received no grapes. After 18 weeks, the rats receiving the grape-enriched meals had lower blood pressure, better heart function, reduced inflammation throughout their bodies and fewer signs of heart muscle damage. The grapes’ heart-protective effects are thought to be due to their high level of phytochemicals, naturally occur-ring antioxidants contained in whole grapes.

sleeP & rest FiGht cancerA study presented at the latest American Association for

Cancer Research’s International Conference on Frontiers in

Cancer Prevention suggests that regular physical activity can

lower a woman’s overall risk of cancer—but only if she gets a

good night’s sleep. Lack of sleep,

the research reported, undermines

the cancer prevention benefit

of exercise.

smile to see the Bigger pictureThe face of a happy, smiling kid on the

refrigerator door might do more than make us feel good; it might help us make better food choices, say researchers, who discovered that positive moods increase

our ability to understand the big picture. Being in a good mood both helps us think at a more abstract level and allows us to step back emotionally. When we can do that, we can see the larger picture. A positive mood, the researchers explain, encourages broader, more flexible thinking and increases our openness to information, which in turn allows us to adopt a higher order of future goals and work harder toward attaining them. It all enhances future well-being, providing more reasons to surround ourselves with positive things.

Source: University of Chicago Press Journals, 2008.

healthbriefs

thenewGREEN Economy

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14 March 2009

fitbody

Six-legged Runs

Best Buddy Workouts Go theDistance

imagine the ideal workout buddy; one who is ready to join you at a moment’s notice without question, enjoys your company, never critiques your effort or outfit and

doesn’t cancel at the last minute. Chances are, you’ll find this paragon right there next to you as you read this, watching with soulful eyes, tail wagging in hope of hearing the magic words: “Let’s go for a run!” Your dog can be your best fitness friend. Enthusiastically joining in a regular jogging or running routine will build stamina, strengthen muscles and burn calories—for both of you. According to a recent study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than one-third of adult Americans are obese; likewise, data compiled by Pfizer Animal Health indicate that nearly a quarter of the canine population is overweight. “Not only do dogs need exercise, they need a lot more than we do,” advises Jack Burke, a veterinarian and chair of the Mercy College School of Veterinary Medicine. Keep that in mind to stay motivated, then turn off the tube, put the laptop on standby and head outdoors. Just heed these tips to ensure your twofer workouts are healthy and enjoyable.

Know your dog. Sustained jogging or running benefits many dogs, although not all, and can be problematic for some, according to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA). DogBreedInfo.com supplies a helpful list of dogs that can go, and enjoy, the distance. Long-legged lopers, such as Labradors, Dalmatians and most retrievers, are good long-distance running companions. It’s wise to recognize that racing breeds, like greyhounds and whippets, are sprinters, rather than endurance athletes. It’s unfair to expect small, short-legged dogs to “pick up the pace.” Short-nosed breeds—pugs, bulldogs and boxers, for example—have trouble breathing during vigorous exercise.

Get your vet’s blessing. Be sure your dog has a full checkup before joining you on jogs. The vet can also advise whether an animal is too young or old for sustained running, when short distances or a more stately pace would be better.

Buy a good leash. A leash is a non-negotiable piece of equipment. Best Friends trainer Mark Renick recommends using a six-foot lead for running. “It’s long enough so that you won’t step on your dog, but short enough so you can keep him under control,” he advises. Use this leash just for jogging and your dog will soon connect it with running, rather than strolling while sniff-ing every tree or lamppost.

Practice obedience skills. “Sit, stay, come,” and “heel” are commands that need to be in a dog’s working vocabulary. If they aren’t, enroll in an obedience course before hitting the pavement or trails.

Start slowly. Begin each session with a walking warmup. For the first few weeks, alternate jogging/running with lots of walking. “Start younger, middle-aged and overweight dogs on a moderate program of walking 10 to 15 minutes once or twice a day,” advises Howard Erickson, professor of physiology at Kan-sas State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine. Then, gradually add distance, as both partners build endurance. End each session with additional walking as a cool-down.

Your dog can be your best fitness friend.

Enthusiastically joining in a regular jog-

ging or running routine will build stamina,

strengthen muscles and burn calories—for

both of you.


Don’t overdo. The Surgeon General recommends that for optimal health, people exercise 150 minutes each week at moderate inten-sity. The AVMA reports that “Dogs will exercise past the point of exhaustion to please a beloved companion,” and advises us to be sensitive to their health and comfort.

Be safe. Always keep these guidelines in mind:

• Don’t run with a dog just before he eats or after he has eaten.

• Face oncoming traffic; this puts a heeling dog on your left, away from cars or bikes.

• Check paw pads for signs of irritation or bleeding. Pavement is hard on a dog’s feet; grass and dirt are kinder. Summer-hot asphalt and concrete can burn sensitive feet, and snow can cause frostbite.

• Carry water for both of you, and offer some every 20 minutes.

• Watch for signs of overheating, such as heavy panting or salivating, and stop immediately if you observe these, cooling your pet slowly with cool, not cold, water. The best times to exercise are early morning or evening.

• Don’t jog daily; canine muscles and joints, too, need to rest and recuperate.

Fitness is more fun when a buddy’s along and the health benefits abound.

Learn more at AVMA.org and RunThePlanet.com/trainingracing/ training/dogs.

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NaturalThe alternative and complementary

therapies that work so well in humans can

also have value for your animal companion.

When Pets Go by Victoria l. Freeman

You’d have thought she was a model coming straight from a photographer’s studio. “Strike a

pose,” Dan Mullaney would tell Tiffany, and she’d move into position for the camera, ready for the perfect photo. “There was no doubt she knew exactly what she was doing,” Mullaney says. Tiffany Louise, a most precocious sable Pomeranian, was quite the little lady. So when Tiffany’s fur started falling out and she began having seizures, Mullaney and his wife Teri launched a desperate crusade to help their beloved pet. Her doctor, a respected conventional veterinarian, ran tests and diagnosed Tiffany with liver failure. Her prognosis: two months to live. The vet suggested that the Mullaneys give their dog milk thistle (Silybum marianum) and a commonly prescribed phar-maceutical drug that the Mullaneys quickly had to discontinue, because it made Tiffany even sicker. Unwilling to accept the finality of their vet’s report, the Mullaneys sought a second opinion. Their search led them to Shawn Messonnier, doctor of veteri-nary medicine, a holistic veterinarian near their home in Plano, Texas. Based on details in Tiffany’s blood work, Mes-sonnier, author of The Natural Health Bible for Dogs & Cats and The Natural Vet’s Guide to Preventing and Treating Cancer in Dogs, arrived at a different diagnosis: Cushing’s disease, a glandular disorder that causes overproduction of the hormone cortisol and, consequently, obesity, muscle weakness, osteoporosis and other conditions. “Many vets mistake Cushing’s for liver disease,” says Messonnier, “be-cause there are similarities in blood test results.” He suggested several natural therapies, such as a whole-foods diet, a multivitamin supplement, an herbal supplement and a glandular support formula. Cushing’s can be fatal on its own or can lead to other life-threatening conditions, such as diabetes, liver or kidney failure and congestive heart failure, but Tiffany rallied on the holistic treatments. And, even though the Mul-laneys had to say a tearful good-bye to Tiffany just before her 14th birthday, Mullaney says, “I don’t have any scientific proof, but I believe the


“Some of the most common life-threatening ailments for dogs and cats include kidney disease, heart disease and cancer,” explains Holistic Veterinarian Shawn Messonnier, a doctor of veterinary medicine in Plano, Texas. Like their human physician counterparts, holistic vets are finding that natural modalities are impor-tant tools in treating these conditions. Consider the following comparisons.

CancerConventional medicine. Depending on the type of cancer and its location, sur-gery may or may not be used to remove the tumor(s). Radiation, chemotherapy or both may also be included.

Holistic medicine. The best defense against most types of cancer is a strong im-mune system. However, depending on the type and location of the cancer, as well as the animal’s general condition, surgery, radiation or chemotherapy may or may not be used initially to remove or kill cancerous cells. Regardless, nutri-tional changes offer additional support. For example, decreasing carbohydrates can “starve” cancer cells (glucose is a cancer cell’s favorite fuel) and increasing omega-3 fatty acids can inhibit the formation and spread of cancers and guard against wasting. Antioxidants and immune system-enhancing herbs, such as the antimicrobials garlic (Allium sativum) and goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis) are other options for ongoing treatment and protection against the toxic effects of conventional treatments.

Kidney DiseaseConventional medicine. Treatment generally consists of dietary changes, such as reducing protein, phosphorus and sodium, while increasing B vitamins and omega-3 fatty acids. Additional options include increasing subcutaneous or intra-venous fluids, as well as pharmaceuticals to relieve vomiting from uremic toxin overload.

Holistic medicine. Dietary changes and additional fluids form the treatment base, but many alternative therapies also may help, such as the herbs astraga-lus (Astragalus membranaceus) to improve kidney circulation; dandelion leaf (Taraxacum officinale) for anti-inflammatory activity and waste elimination; echi-nacea (Echinacea purpurea) for its immune-stimulating and antimicrobial effects; and garlic (Allium sativum) to increase detoxification enzymes and for its antimi-crobial activity. Homeopathic remedies such as Silicea to boost stamina or Thuja occidentalis for urinary tract infections may offer additional support.

Heart DiseaseConventional medicine. Besides dietary recommendations and exercise, there’s virtually nothing in conventional veterinary medicine to address heart disease. It’s not until the condition progresses to heart failure that conventional drugs such as ACE inhibitors, beta blockers, diuretics and calcium channel blockers become helpful.

Holistic medicine. In contrast, earlier is better for treating heart disease with al-ternative therapies such as the herb, hawthorn (Crataegus oxyacantha), shown to both strengthen the heart and stabilize it against arrhythmias. Other homeo-pathic remedies include Adonis vernalis to strengthen heart contractions and Strophanthus hispidus to tone heart muscle (both remedies are purported to help remove excess fluid, as well). Carnitine and taurine amino acid supplements also may be beneficial, because deficiencies of both have been linked to dilated car-diomyopathy (congestive heart failure).

Sources: Shawn Messonnier, doctor of veterinary medicine; and The Natural Health Bible for Dogs and Cats: Your A-Z Guide to Over 200 Conditions, Herbs, Vitamins and Supplements by Shawn Messonnier. Adapted with the author’s permission.

Veterinary AltERNAtIVES for Common Conditions

holistic approach bought us another two-and-a-half wonderful years with Tiffany—and that’s a lot better than two months.”

Complementary Avenues for HealingOver the last decade, the U.S. medical community has slowly begun to recog-nize the importance of alternative and complementary therapies. Now, the same process is under way in veterinary healthcare, explains Allen Schoen, a doctor of veterinary medicine and pio-neer in integrative veterinary medicine, who has authored Kindred Spirits: How the Remarkable Bond Between Humans and Animals Can Change the Way We Live. Veterinary medicine looks very dif-ferent than it did in 1982, when Carvel Tiekert, a doctor of veterinary medicine, founded the American Holistic Veteri-nary Medical Association (AHVMA). Today, more vets than ever are answer-ing public demand for alternative care for all types of pets, including birds and exotic animals. “Membership in AHVMA has in-creased 35 percent in the last 10 years,” says Tiekert, now the organization’s ex-ecutive director. He adds that AHVMA has spawned a number of medical specialty groups, such as the Academy of Veterinary Homeopathy, the Ameri-can Veterinary Chiropractic Association and the Veterinary Botanical Medicine Association. So, what’s driving the increased ac-ceptance of complementary approaches to pet care? As is true for people, some-times no conventional treatments exist for an animal’s condition. For example,

explains Messonnier, he and others have found that leaky gut syndrome, which is common, but not often

Today, more vets than ever are answering public demand for alternative care for all types of pets, including birds and exotic animals.

18 March 2009

diagnosed by conventional veterinarians, responds well to probiotics and the amino acid glutamine—just as it does for humans. Many consumers also believe that natural therapies are safer for their animal companions than conventional ones. Consider the first-line conventional treatments for osteo-arthritis, a condition that usually affects older animals and often manifests as stiffness, limping or difficulty rising or lying down. Vets often prescribe cortico-steroids and anti-inflammatories. Based on his experience, Messonnier cautions that both can have potentially nasty side effects, such as diabetes, Cushing’s disease, liver and kidney disease and gastrointestinal ulcers. On the other hand, he notes, glucosamine hydrochloride and chondroitin sulfate are research-supported and can offer effective and safe natural alternatives for pets, as well as people. But in opting for alternatives, don’t throw the puppy out with the bathwater. If an animal has been hit by a car or faces some other emergency, conventional medicine is still your best bet, says Integrative Veterinarian Robert Silver, a doctor of veterinary medicine and founder and medical director of Boulder’s Natural Animal, in Boulder, Colorado. “You determine the most important thing to do first, but then reassess as you go along. Often, that means using con-ventional treatment to get through the emergency, and then including natural therapies for long-term support and recov-ery,” Silver advises. For example, surgery may be required to repair a fracture or a large laceration, but once the immediate crisis is over, alternative treatments, such as acupuncture for pain management or herbs to reduce inflammation can be effective.

A Cockatoo Named JaffaBirds and other more exotic pets can benefit from natural therapies, too. In 1995, when Doctor of Veterinary Medicine Cynthia Lankenau first met Jaffa, a sulfur-crested cockatoo, she was deeply saddened by the bird’s condition. Jaffa’s grief over the death of her first human companion had led to seri-ous feather picking and self-mutilation. “Birds are very sensitive and emotional, so it’s not sur-prising that up to 80 percent of the health conditions I see are behaviorally or emotionally based,” explains Lankenau, from her clinic in Colden, New York. In Jaffa’s case, too many hours left alone, too many emo-tional upheavals and an undetected food allergy had caused the bird to pluck out many of her own feathers and tear at her flesh, resulting in a crusty sore that covered her entire chest. Her new caretaker did her best to help, using many conven-tional treatments, such as antibiotics and a cone over Jaffa’s head, but all had dismal results. Lankenau first treated Jaffa with acupuncture (birds respond especially well to acupuncture, she says) and the homeopathic remedies Pulsatilla and Natrum muriaticum. Just a few months later, Jaffa had allowed her feathers to fill in and her chest ulcer had shrunk to the size of a nickel. Unfortunately, Lankenau didn’t see Jaffa again for nine years. This time, she was in even worse shape and was scheduled to be put down. Her whole chest was once again an open


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sore and she had plucked out all of her vent and flight feathers. “Her owner had many emotional traumas in her life and very little time to devote to Jaffa,” Lankenau explains, “so we decided Jaffa should come live with me.” After more homeopa-thy, nutritional supplements and dietary changes to address her allergy, Jaffa became a brand-new bird, contentedly spending her days either riding around on Lankenau’s shoulder during veterinary client visits or chatting with office staff. “It’s a big commitment to care for one of these birds,” Lankenau says. “These creatures are worth the effort, though,” she adds. “Even when things were the worst, Jaffa was always very kind and loving. She gave great bird hugs. “When I first met Jaffa, I was told she was in her 20s,” Lankenau continues. “Actually, she was in her 60s. She had a stroke in December 2007 and was really doing an incredible job of healing, but she was very old and did finally pass on. I am amazed at how well she did heal, considering her age, and am grateful that during her remaining years with me, she enjoyed a healthy and contented quality of life.”

Two Paws Up for Holistic ApproachMany pet lovers can be classified as either dog people or cat people. Ann Huey definitely falls in the cat-loving category and feels she owes a great deal to holistic vet care. Huey’s gentle, 3-year-old tortoiseshell-and-tabby cat, Deluxie, became a running, jumping testament to the value of integrative medicine. But, she wasn’t always this healthy and active. Diagnosed in 2003 with polyarthritis (arthritis occurring in multiple joints), Deluxie nearly died a year later from her high daily dose of prednisolone, a steroid prescribed by her veterinarian. Intended to address the pain and inflammation associated with her condition, the drug initially gave Deluxie a much-needed reprieve, Huey says. Yet, after a few short months, low dosages were no longer helping and the increasing dosages took their toll. In horror, Huey watched as Deluxie found it harder and harder to move. Then, her previously alert ears started drooping, a sign that the steroid was causing the cat’s tissues to degenerate. When a veterinary technician picked Deluxie up to do a routine blood draw, her skin literally ripped. Huey knew something had to change, and fast. They tried taking Deluxie completely off the prednisolone on numerous oc-casions, but her condition immediately deteriorated each time. What they ended up with, Huey explains, was a plan that combined a greatly reduced dose of prednisolone with natural therapies such as a more wholesome diet, an antioxi-dant supplement and various homeopathic remedies directed at treating Deluxie’s arthritis and supporting her immune system. Did the holistic plan work? Huey says yes. “In only a few weeks, we got to watch Deluxie run again. She started climbing trees and was even up on the roof of our storage shed.” Victoria Freeman, Ph.D., is a freelance writer in Goodland, KS. Connect at VictoriaFreeman.com.

20 March 2009

consciouseating

Dr. Andrew Weil, who offers many nutritional supplements on his website, DrWeil.com, is a staunch proponent of eating fresh, green vegetables; he can be seen on television picking veggies from his garden. “Dark, leafy greens and green vegetables are full of natural agents that can protect health,” Weil advises. “They’re a great source of vitamins, minerals and fiber. Some—including spinach, collards, kale and broccoli—contain antioxidants that help protect aging eyes from devel-oping cataracts and macular degeneration. They may also protect against clogging of the carotid arteries in the neck and help reduce the risk of cancer.”

Weil notes that researchers are finding that some important vitamins and minerals protective against disease are required in amounts that may be difficult to obtain through diet alone. Many Americans don’t have the option of picking fresh vegetables, although more of us are picking up the next best thing from the local farm stand. Instead, most families purchase “fresh” vegetables from a supermarket, which typically stocks produce from distant, massive agribusinesses. Those veggies may have been harvested days or weeks prior to arriving at the store—and every minute a vegetable is exposed to air and light after harvesting diminishes its enzyme and nutrient values. Foods from local farm stands retain more nutrients, but availability is seasonal and limited to regional crops. Gary Null, Ph.D., believes a more realistic answer to the dearth of green vegetables in the average American diet is greenfoods. This award-winning investigative journalist, documentary filmmaker, talk radio host and author of 70 books, leverages his considerable ex-pertise advocating alternative medicine and natural healing (see GaryNull.com). Among the first to design a greenfood supplement, his version contains a mix of organically grown greens harvested fresh, and then juiced and immediately dehydrated at a low temperature to preserve nutrients. The resulting “super-food” powder can be easily added to foods and beverages. Most greenfood preparations include immature, nutrient-rich grasses such as oat, wheat or barley grass; microalgae such as spirulina and chlo-rella; and chlorophyll-rich vegetables like parsley, broccoli and kale. Some

by dian Freeman

Which is better for our health: fresh greens

or “greenfoods,” dehydrated vegetables

in powder or pill form? it’s up to us, as

individual consumers, to learn more about

the choices and make informed decisions.

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formulas include fruit for extra antioxidant value and flavor. Greenfood preparations are designed to meet more of the body’s nutritional needs than the single salad and side serving of steamed vegetables the average American tries to consume each day. Some greenfoods are even designed as whole food products for people who don’t eat fish, eggs or meat, because vegetarian diets are often low in protein, essential fatty acids and vitamin B12, all abundant in flesh foods. Spirulina, or blue-green algae, is a favorite of vegetarians, because it is high in protein. Many algae provide the B12 vitamin unavailable in other vegetables and are also a rich source of essential fatty acids. Dr. Joseph Mercola, another national health advisor, DrMercola.com, touts chlorella, a natural green algae found in many greenfood preparations. He credits it with strengthening the immune system and providing enzymes and intestinal flora that support digestion and elimination. Microalgae’s beta-caro-tene content also provides antioxidants. A paper he published in the Journal of Nutritional and Environmental Medicine further concluded that “Chlorella works to effectively filter out toxins from your body.” Microalgae are high in chlorophyll, a common ingredi-ent in all greenfoods, with chlorella offering the highest levels. Chlorophyll is chemically similar to human blood. Natural practitioners through the ages have used it to help rebuild hu-man red blood cells, especially after blood loss due to injury or childbirth, and to freshen breath and bowels. Chlorophyll is considered an excellent source of vitamins and minerals and is especially high in magnesium. In addition, an article in Nutri-tion Research magazine writes that some studies “demonstrate that commercial chlorophyll… is strongly antimutagenic.” Thus, recent claims for its anti-cancer properties. The medical science community of dieticians, govern-ment- and pharmaceutically-funded researchers and medical doctors mostly remains skeptical of claims about chlorophyll’s healthful benefits, because many studies have been inconclu-sive. In answer, the natural health community might argue that modern scientific researchers lack financial incentives to test traditional natural remedies fairly; the bigger money is in the drugs prescribed when nutrients become depleted in the human body, leading to illness. Whole-food purists may prefer fresh vegetables and the medical science community may scoff at the value of green-foods, but those curious about greenfood supplements still pos-sess the freedom to try them. Because traditional health uses of natural products are strongly censored in the United States, the proof of their value is in the results obtained after trying them. If bowels function better, digestion improves, muscles become toned, energy levels rise and skin and eyes shine after consum-ing these products on a regular basis, then greenfoods may well be the superfood that their proponents claim them to be.

Dian Freeman is certified in clinical nutrition and holistic health with a private consultation practice in Morristown, NJ. She lectures widely and teaches health seminars, cook-ing classes and a nutritional certification course. Connect at [email protected] or visit WellnessSimplified.com.

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22 March 2009

everyone knows that kids love animals. They permeate childhood media. In real life, an estimated 4

in 10 children begin life in a family with domestic animals, and as many as 90 percent of all kids live with a pet at some point during their childhood, says Gail F. Melson, Ph.D., professor emeritus of de-velopmental studies at Purdue University and the author of Why the Wild Things Are: Animals in the Lives of Children. The amount of money we spend on pets has nearly doubled in the past decade, rising to more than $38 billion, according to the American Pet Products Manufacturers Association. That figure dwarfs the toy business ($23 billion) and candy industry ($24 billion). Because my wife and I grew up companioned by animals, we are delighted with our daughter’s natural

zeal and passion for critters. Our cur-rent menagerie includes one German shepherd, one Yorkipoo, three cats, three goats, a freshwater aquarium and a tank of Sea-Monkeys, a hybrid species of brine shrimp. Living in the woods, we’re paid an endless series of cameo appearances by turtles, mice, moles, frogs, toads, tadpoles, ducks, geese, slugs and other wildlife. Like most parents, we counted on the commonsense idea that having animals around would help teach our daughter responsibility and maybe, empathy. But, we’ve also learned that the presence of animals helps foster her emotional, cognitive, social and physi-cal development. Plenty of solid evidence backs up such observations. Following are five reasons to let the fur fly in your home.

Pets Aid LearningWe often find our daughter curled up in her bed or lying in a den of blankets in a quiet nook of the house, reading to one or more of her cats. She pets them as she reads, stops to show them pictures and asks them questions. She even reassures them during scary parts of the story. Educators like Mary Renck Jalongo, Ph.D., education professor at Indiana University of Pennsylvania and author of The World of Children and Their Companion Animals, have long known that bringing therapy animals (mostly dogs) into schools helps developmen-tally challenged kids learn. Now they are finding that all children can benefit from the presence of a nonjudgmental pal with paws. In one of Jalongo’s studies, chil-dren were asked to read in front of a peer, an adult and a dog. Researchers monitored their stress levels and found that kids were most relaxed around the animal, not the humans.

Why pets help Kids

Children love their pets—and for good reason. Creatures both large and small teach, delight and offer a special kind of companionship.

by Bill strickland

healthykids


“If you’re struggling to read and someone says, ‘Time to pick up your book and work,’ that’s not a very attrac-tive offer,” Jalongo says. “Curling up with a dog or cat, on the other hand, is a lot more appealing.”

Pets Provide ComfortIn another Jalongo-led study, children were asked what advice they would give less-popular kids for making friends. The top answer didn’t focus on a cool toy or must-have sneakers. It was: Get a pet. Whether a hamster or a horse, Jalongo notes, an animal gives a child something to talk about and a shared interest with other kids. Animals are also a great source of comfort. Melson asked a group of 5-year-old pet owners what they did when they felt sad, angry or afraid or when they had a secret to share. More than 40 percent spontaneously men-tioned turning to their pets. She remarks that, “Kids who get support from their animal companions were rated by their parents as less anxious and withdrawn.”

Pets Encourage NurturingMelson began studying the impact of pets in order to learn how human beings develop the ability to care for others. “Nurturing isn’t a quality that suddenly appears in adulthood when we need it,” she observes. “You don’t learn to nurture, because you were nur-tured as a child. People need a way to practice being caregivers when they’re young.” In most of the modern world, there’s little opportunity for kids to provide for other living things aside from pets. “In many other countries, siblings look after one another, but in the United States that’s not culturally acceptable,” Melson says. “It’s actu-ally illegal in many states to leave kids in the care of anyone who is under 16 years of age.”

So, how are the seeds of good par-enting skills planted during childhood? Melson believes one way is through pets. In her research, she tracked how much time kids over age 3 spent ac-tively caring for family animals, versus caring for or even playing with younger siblings. Over a 24-hour period, pet guardians spent 10.3 minutes in care-giving; those with younger sibs spent only 2.4 minutes. “Nurturing animals is especially important for boys, because taking care of an animal isn’t seen as a ‘girl’ thing, like babysitting, playing house or playing with dolls,” Melson says. By age 8, girls are more likely to be involved than boys in baby care, both inside and outside the home, but when it comes to pet care, both genders remain equally involved.

Pets Help Keep Kids HealthyAccording to a study by Dr. Dennis Ownby, a pediatrician and head of the allergy and immunology department of the Medical College of Georgia, having multiple pets actually decreases a child’s risk of developing certain al-lergies. His research tracked a group of 474 babies from birth to about age 7. He found that the children who were exposed to two or more dogs or cats as babies were less than half as likely to develop common allergies as kids who had no pets in the home. Children with animals had fewer positive skin tests to indoor allergens—like pet and dust mite allergens—and also to outdoor allergens, such as ragweed and grass. Other studies have suggested that early exposure to animals at home may decrease a child’s risk of developing asthma. No one knows for sure why this is the case, but Ownby has a theory: “When a child plays with

a dog or a cat, the animals usually lick him,” he says. “That lick transfers bacte-ria that live in animals’ mouths, and the exposure to the bacteria may change the way the child’s immune system responds to other allergens.”

How Pets Build Family BondsOne of the biggest benefits of having pets is often unexpected, even for par-ents who grew up around animals: They can help families grow stronger and closer. “Whenever I ask children and parents if their pets are truly part of the family, most of them seem surprised—and almost offended—at the question,” Melson remarks. “The most common response is, ‘Of course they are!’” A pet is often the focus of family activities. Everyone takes the dog for a walk, shares in the grooming and feed-ing or gets down on the floor to play together. Kids can even benefit from simply watching a cat chase her tail or a fish swim in his tank. Spending time like this offers the potential for slowing the hectic pace of the day. If someone asks what we’re doing, we might respond “nothing.” In an era of overscheduled children and parents constantly on the go, “nothing” can be an important thing to do. Bill Strickland, a freelance writer in Em-maus, PA, recently published his mem-oir, Ten Points. He regularly contrib-utes to national publications.

Children who live with a cat or dog in their early years experience

a lower incidence of hay fever and asthma and are less likely

to develop animal-related allergies.

— Dr. Dennis Ownby, allergist, based on a Medical College of Georgia study

24 March 2009

greenliving

The city of Carlisle, Great Britain, faced a challenge: to find and preserve green space within its borders. Creative thinking by the city council revealed some

unexpected open land—its cemeteries. In 1993, Carlisle Cemetery opened a small section of property for “woodland burial,” with the goal of restoring forested area in the city. The section was designed to provide a natural memorial set-ting dominated by native plant species, while reducing the environmental impact of conventional interment and cem-etery upkeep. Carlisle Cemetery’s Woodland Burial Ground became the modern world’s first eco-cemetery. The green burial movement took shape through the efforts of its advocates, with slow, but steady growth world-wide. Naturalists saw green burial as a gift returned with gratitude to the Earth they loved. Environmentalists valued preventing the burial of toxins and non-degradable materials into an already endangered ecosystem. Stepping away from the conventions of the modern funeral industry gave many a freedom to honor the departed in unusual and personal ways. 1998 marked the inception of Ramsey Creek Preserve,

Natural Burial

in South Carolina, the first green cemetery in this country. Today, more than 200 sites in the United States are set aside as current or future natural burial grounds. For green burial, the body of the deceased is prepared without chemical preservatives, and the remains are buried in a biodegradable coffin, shroud or other container. Graves are sometimes hand-dug, and almost always vault- or liner-free. Some graves are unmarked, while others may bear a simple native stone or indigenous plantings. Natural burial grounds use no irrigation, pesticides or herbicides for maintenance. The idea is for the grave and its occupant to be part of the natural cycle of life, death and regeneration of new life. Resources for researching and planning a green burial abound. The Green Burial Council has established standards for sustainability and transparency in the death care indus-try; its website lists providers who adhere to them, sorted by service and location. An individual can find anything he or she needs to ar-range the natural funeral or memorial desired. Websites like GreenBurials.org and NaturalBurial.coop are full of general information and links to all aspects of death care. EarthUrn.com offers a variety of natural, biodegradable and organic containers for cremated remains, while NaturalBurialCom-pany.com helps consumers find a green coffin to suit them, made from materials like cardboard, sustainably harvested

“Just as most people once knew how to

can vegetables, milk a cow, butcher a pig

and have a home birth… how to care for an

un-embalmed dead body at home used to

be pretty common knowledge. Now, that

knowledge is an art practiced by a relative

few.” — Author Bob Butz

by sandy rogovin

honoring life in death

wood or woven plant fibers. EternalReefs.com adds cremated remains to cast concrete “reef balls,” used to rebuild dying ocean reefs. Service providers like Memorial Ecosystems, owner of Ramsey Creek Preserve, and local funeral homes that have opened their doors and minds to include or specialize in natural burials, are prepared to answer the myriad questions that surface. “If you know how to use the Internet and you’re not afraid to make calls to people you don’t know, you can get answers to any question in the world,” notes Bob Butz, a naturalist and award-winning author. Butz, 37, has recorded his odyssey through eco-friendly interment in Going Out Green: One Man’s Adventure Plan-ning His Own Natural Burial, due out in May 2009. Although the book is complete, the author’s exploration of natural death care is not over. His blog on the topic can be accessed through the website of Spirituality and Health magazine. Butz makes observations ranging from soulful to pragmatic or humorous, an approach which may seem irreverent in a culture that tiptoes so carefully around death. He hopes his


blog will draw the interest of people who otherwise might avoid the discussion. “We have no experience with death anymore, and the only way that is going to change is if we start talking about it and planning for it, as we are so eager to do with births, weddings and every other of life’s most important rituals,” the author contends. “People put more thought and planning to where they will spend their summer vacation than where their body will be laid for all eternity.” In the course of his pre-need personal exploration, Butz shopped for an environmentally friendly coffin, hand-dug a grave and met with a death midwife, who will assist his family with the logistics of dying. “There’s a heck of a lot of paperwork,” he remarks, as well as details of transporting and caring for his body from death through the home funeral ritual he prefers. As part of the journey, he also re-visited the grave of his father, who died when Butz was a boy. “There my father was stuck, planted in some cramped piece of ground, surrounded by strang-ers. He never wore a suit, yet he was buried in one. He was a man of the out-doors, a man who liked simple things and who loved wilderness and wildlife, yet he was buried in a frilly oak casket on a piece of ground that he never plowed, never trod over or enjoyed in any capacity during his life. “A funeral [or] burial has to honor the life of the deceased,” Butz reasons. “It should in some way have elements that symbolize who they were in life.”

For more information about Bob Butz and his works, visit BobButz.com. The link to his blog is Spirituality-Health.com/books/blog/2.

Green Burial Resources on the web include: The Green Burial Council at GreenBurialCouncil.org; GreenBurials.org; The Centre for Natu-ral Burial at NaturalBurial.coop/USA; and MemorialEcosystems.com, by the owner of Ramsey Creek Preserve and Honey Creek Woodlands.

Freelance writer Sandy Rogovin reports on natural and alternative wellness and its pioneers. Contact her at [email protected].

26 March 2009

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

MoNday, MarCh 2The Right Shoe for You – 6-7:30pm. Professionals help you determine what to look for when consider-ing investing in a pair of athletic shoes to fit your unique foot and walking gate. $5/person. 175 S Waverly Rd, Holland. 616-394-3344.

Film & Discussion Series – 7pm. Film- In Our Children’s Food (Frontline Film) & Impact of Fresh, Healthy Foods on Learning & Behavior (Appleton, WI) $7/$3 students & seniors. SanChez Bistro, 38 W. Fulton, Grand Rapids. 616-677-6176.

tuesday, MarCh 3Dinner at the Forum – Join us for Dinner at the forum. Call for reservations. The Wellness Forum, 830 Forest Hill Ave, Grand Rapids, 616-942-7907

Headache/Trigger Point Lecture – 7-8pm. Bring a partner and learn to use tools that relieve headache pain and stress through your body’s trigger points. Free seminar courtesy of Parkhurst Chiropractic & Lakeshore Wellness Center. Howard Miller Library, 14 S Church St, Zeeland. 616-392-9500.

saturday, MarCh 7Tried & True Wisdom for Your Best Core - 10:30-12pm. Join Mandy Gruner, Sport & Wellness Dietitian, and Kendra Bylsma, Certified Personal Trainer for a dual presentation that will cover the best nutrition and fitness advice for the mid-section. $5.00 for practice members / $15.00 non-practice. To RSVP contact Chirofit Wellness Center, Ste 240, 2249 East Grand Rapids, 616-458-2348.

Learn to Paint Smart & Healthy – 1-3pm. This Free class will teach you how to choose healthy, quality paints, the basics of painting and how to save money on tools for your next project. Eden Environments, 5747 28th Street SE, Suite 101, Grand Rapids. 616-956-5000

Ama Deus Class-Level I - 6-9pm Level I begins evening of the 7th and finishes 9-10:30am on the 3/8. Ama-deus-international.com. For more info contact Sue at [email protected] or phone at 616-706-3869.

suNday, MarCh 8Eckankar Worship Service – 10am. Finding Your Spiritual Mission. All are welcome for the monthly Eckankar worship service. Free. Meeting Room, 76th & 131-Motel 6, 7625 Caterpillar Ct, Grand Rapids. 616-752-8460.

Ama Deus Class- Level II - 11-3pm. Ama-deus-international.com. For more info contact Sue at [email protected] or phone at 616-706-3869.

MoNday, MarCh 9Education: What is Missing? – 7pm. Discussion -Are the nation’s youth ready for the collapse of the US Economy? Are Adults? John Taylor Gatto’s four principles of youth education. Ecology, economy,

energy (3 E’s), history, agriculture & subsistence skills are mostly lacking in education systems. $5/$2 students & seniors. SanChez Bistro, 38 W. Fulton, Grand Rapids. 616-677-6176.

Couples Massage Class - 7-8pm. Cindy Mulkerin, Certified Massage Therapist will teach massage techniques so you can give & receive the benefits of massage at home. $25/couple. Limited to 4 couples. To RSVP contact Chirofit Wellness Center, Ste 240, 2249 East Grand Rapids, 616-458-2348.

tuesday, MarCh 10Spinal Decompression – 6:30-7:30pm. Is your back killing you? Find out if you are a candidate for Lordex Spinal Decompression Therapy. Free health care seminar courtesy of Parkhurst Chiropractic & Lakeshore Wellness Center. Howard Miller Library, 14 S Church St, Zeeland. 888-567-3391.

Energy Medicine – 7-9pm. Presented by West Michigan Healers. Nancy O’Donohue gives an overview of Energy Medicine which can help with serious illnesses to minor ailments, stress or just charge up your batteries and have a positive attitude toward life. Demonstrates healing modalities taught by England’s NFSH. $10. Hackley Campus Audi-torium, 1700 Clinton, Muskegon. 231-557-1618.

WedNesday, MarCh 11Guided Meditation, Prayer & Healing Circle – 7-8pm. Guided meditation and prayers by church chaplains and energy healing offered by local heal-ers. Free. For info email Nancy at [email protected]. Unity Church on the Lakeshore, 41 Washington St, Douglas. 269-857-8226.

Diagnosing Heart Disease - 7-8pm. Join the experts from West Michigan Heart to learn more about heart disease prevention, heart testing, pros and cons of stress tests and coronary angiography. Free. 602 Michigan Ave, Holland. 616-394-3344.

thursday, MarCh 12Strength training to reduce the risk of cancer & osteoporosis – 7pm. These diseases are not a natural by product of aging. Bone health is affected by your lifestyle. Learn some ways to protect yourself with strength training. Rik Brown, MSPH, NSCA-CPT. Call to reserve a space. The Wellness Forum, 830 Forest Hill Ave, Grand Rapids, 616-942-7907

Friday, MarCh 13West Michigan Women’s Expo – March 13-15. Fri 10-8pm / Sat 10-8pm / Sun 11-5pm. Largest female shopping show in West Michigan. Fitness, Fashion, Food and Fun. Everything from cooking stages, travel, & beauty to home décor, healthy liv-ing and much more. Over 375 exhibits & seminars. Visit kohlerexpo.com. DeVos Place, downtown Grand Rapids.

saturday, MarCh 14Growing Older... Becoming Wiser – 9:30am-

12:30pm. Join other women exploring opportunities in the 3rd phase of life.. a time to reap wisdom gained and embrace the wise women within. $20 each or 2 for $30. Grand Rapids Main Library, 111 Library NE, 4th Floor, Grand Rapids. 616-887-7854.

Mommy & Me Yoga – 2-3:30pm. Mommy & Me Yoga (newborn-6 months). Designed to give you the tools you need to continue or start your yoga practice while caring for a new baby. No Experi-ence required. $25 per mom & baby. Seva Yoga, 2213 Wealthy SE Suite 220, East Grand Rapids. 616-458-2541.

suNday, MarCh 15Open Mic – 1-4pm. Looking for something to do on Sunday afternoons? Want to watch some new, live entertainment? Maybe even try out that new song of yours. Free. The mic is on at Utopian Marketplace, 8832 Water St, Montague. 231-894-9530.

MoNday, MarCh 16The World According to Monsanto – 7pm. Film- In our world of PCB, Growth Hormones, Glyphosate, RoundUp, Agent Orange, 245-T, Posilac, Dioxin and more. Will we protect ourselves or not? Film by Marie-Monique Robin. Free. SanChez Bistro, 38 W. Fulton, Grand Rapids. 616-677-6176.

tuesday, MarCh 17Agriculture After Monsanto – 2-4pm. Local, Nutri-tious & Organic” Celebration of Women in STEM, (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math), Free. Grand Rapids Community College, Auditorium ATC building grcc.edu/womensstudies.

Michigan Composter Class – 6-8:30pm. Learn how to be a successful home composter in this three session class offered by the Muskegon Conservation District. $40 for all 3 Sessions. Session 1-Compost-ing Fundamentals & the Decomposition Process. Whitehall City Hall Garden Room, 450 E Colby St, Whitehall. 231-773-0008.

New Research on Fibromyalgia – 6:30-7:30pm. Depression, Anxiety, Aches all over? Learn the new-est approaches in treating this often misunderstood condition. Free health care seminar courtesy of Parkhurst Chiropractic & Lakeshore Wellness Center. Howard Miller Library, 14 S Church St, Zeeland. 616-392-9500.

Nourishing Ways of West Michigan – 7-8:30pm. Healthy Homemade Sausage with Laurie Tanis. For more info email Kathy Desser at [email protected]. St Mark’s Episcopal Church, 134 N Division, Grand Rapids 616-532-6530.

WedNesday, MarCh 18Free Tester Classes – 6:30pm. Tester Pilates mat-work class for beginners and intermediate students. Tester Yogalates (yoga & pilates) for intermediate students. Free. Body Mind Pilates, 6540 28th St, Suite H, Grand Rapids. 616-516-6832.

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28 March 2009

Spinal Stretching & Strengthening Class - 7-8pm. Dr. Lindsay Rademacher will give you the power to maintain a healthy, strong & flexible spine $20 includes a FIT Ball. Limited space. To RSVP contact Chirofit Wellness Center, Ste 240, 2249 East Grand Rapids, 616-458-2348.

Friday, MarCh 20Eckankar Book Discussion – 7pm. How to Survive Spiritually in our Times, by Harold Klemp. All are welcome. Free. Meeting Room, 76th & 131-Motel 6, 7625 Caterpillar Ct, Grand Rapids. 616-752-8460.

saturday, MarCh 21Free Tester Classes – 10:30am. Tester Pilates mat-work class for beginners and intermediate students. Tester Yogalates (yoga & pilates) for intermediate students. Free. Body Mind Pilates, 6540 28th St, Suite H, Grand Rapids. 616-516-6832.

Gluten-Free Fair – 11-3pm. Gluten Free (GF) specialists will be on hand to talk about Gluten Free products. 10% discount on all GF products, including supplements and body care items. Tasty GF food and recipes will be offered. Free. Utopian Marketplace, 8832 Water St, Montague. 231-894-9530.

Moms with the Most - 10:30-12pm. Gain fitness & ideal eating to fuel motherhood. Stressing about getting back to your pre-pregnancy weight? It’s not about the number, it’s about health, having energy, and taking care of you - the weight part will happen. $5.00 practice members / $15.00 non-practice. To RSVP contact Chirofit Wellness Center, Ste 240, 2249 East Grand Rapids, 616-458-2348.

MoNday, MarCh 23Who Was Rudolf Steiner? – 7pm. 1861-1925. Founder of Associative Three Fold Community (Social-Economic-Spiritual/Cultural), Waldorf Ed-ucation, Biodynamic Agriculture, Anthroposophic Medicine. Discussion led by Barbara Brown, BA-Philosophy. $5/$2 students & seniors. SanChez Bis-tro, 38 W. Fulton, Grand Rapids. 616-677-6176.

tuesday, MarCh 24Michigan Composter Class Session 2 – 6-8:30pm. Learn how to be a successful home composter in this three session class offered by the Muskegon Conservation District. $40 for all 3 Sessions. Ses-sion 2-How to build and maintain a compost pile. Whitehall City Hall Garden Room, 450 E Colby St, Whitehall. 231-773-0008.

Conversations with Dr. Colin Campbell – 7pm. This video shares Dr. Campbell’s background and his startling observations from research projects concerning food and disease. Call to reserve a space. The Wellness Forum, 830 Forest Hill Ave, Grand Rapids, 616-942-7907.

thursday, MarCh 263-Day Zen Retreat – 26th -29th. Three Day Zen Retreat at Great Wave Zen Sangha in Ludington with guiding teacher Susan Myoyu Anderson, Roshi. $60/day. Those with prior experience in Zen may register at greatwave.org or call 231-843-7116 or 231-845-5559.

classifiedsEMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Editors and Writers – Natural Awakenings is now accepting resumes for part-time editors and writers in select lakeshore and Grand Rapids territories. Strong writing and editing skills, computer expe-rience. We’re positive people looking for positive associates. Flexible schedule. Email resume’ to [email protected].

FOR SALEHouse, Barn & 7 acre Farm on Lowell schools bus line. 2,500 sq. ft. Rustic cedar sided New England saltbox with cedar sided 2-story barn. 4-bedrooms, 2 ½ baths. Large country kitchen with island and walk-in brick fireplace, wide pine plank floors, wood ceilings & beams. Living/fam-ily room has large stone fireplace $289,000. More land available. Call 616-443-8446.

Treasure Mapping your Dreams: Visioning – 6-8:30pm. Your dreams can come true. You will be creating a map of your dreams and tools to fulfill them from the heart. You will be working with visionary Vivian Love Kyle. $25, Supplies are provided. An-gel Reflections, 1439 W Sherman Blvd, Muskegon. 231-759-3301.

saturday, MarCh 28Genesis Health & Wellness Fair – 10am-3pm. This free event will feature local experts in nutrition, natural health, community supported agriculture and organic gardening, holistic animal care and much more. Gen-esis UMC Church, 1601 Galbraith SE, Grand Rapids. 616-974-0400.

Learn Faux Painting – 1-3pm. Learn how to make color selections, make glazes and how to apply 6 different techniques on sample boards that you get to keep. $45. Eden Environments, 5747 28th Street SE, Suite 101, Grand Rapids. 616-956-5000.

MoNday, MarCh 30Food Fight – 7pm. A fascinating look at how the California food movement has created a counter-revolution against big agribusiness. Specific actions you can do. Free Film. SanChez Bistro, 38 W. Fulton, Grand Rapids. 616-677-6176.

tuesday, MarCh 31Spiritual Healing - 7-9pm. Nancy O’Donohue will explain Spiritual Healing as taught by England’s Na-tional Federation of Spiritual Healers, the largest heal-ing organization in Europe, now teaching in the US. Donations. The Coptic Center, 0-381 Lake Michigan Dr. NW, Grand Rapids. 269-929-6796.

Stretching Your Way to Good Health – 7-8pm. Learn how simple stretching routines can relieve stress, improve heart health, balance, flexibility and strength. Free health care seminar courtesy of Parkhurst Chiropractic & Lakeshore Wellness Center. Ultimate Fitness, 91 Douglas Ave Ste 140, Holland. 616-392-9500.

HOW TO AdvERTISETo advertise with Natural Awakenings or re-quest a media kit, please contact us at 616-656-9232 or email: [email protected]. Deadline for space reser-vation is the 12th of each month.

NEWS BRIEFS &ARTICLE SUBMISSIONSEmail articles to: [email protected]. Deadline for articles is the 5th of the month prior to publication. Submit News Briefs online at NaturalWestMichigan.com. Deadline for news briefs is the 12th of the month prior to publication.

CALENdAR SUBMISSIONSSubmit Calendar Events online at:NaturalWestMichigan.com. Calendardeadline is the 15th of the month prior topublication.

REgIONAL MARkETSAdvertise your products or services in mul-tiple markets! Natural Awakenings Publishing Corp. is a growing franchised family of lo-cally owned magazines servicing communities since 1994. To find our many locations, how to place your ad in other markets call 904-704-9055, or for franchising opportunities call 1-877-530-1377 or visit www.naturalawaken-ingsmag.com.

Life is a pure flame, and we live by an invisible sun within us.

Sir Thomas Brown


ongoingevents

Ama Deus Among Us - 7-8:30pm. An opportunity for practitioners of this healing technique to come together monthly to share and receive. Alternating the third Tuesday and Thursday evenings of the month. Ama-deus-international.com. For more info contact Sue at [email protected] or phone at 616-706-3869.

Tennis Lessons: Adult & Advanced Beginner – 7:30-8:30pm. This 4 week Tennis class is de-signed for players who have little or no instruction. Fundamental drills will cover the serve, forehand, backhand and volley. Scoring and match play will be introduced. $44 members / $52 non-members. 4250 Spartan Industrial Drive, Grandville. 616-538-4600.

WednesdayMeditation at Noon – 12-12:45pm. Experience a quieting of your mind & return to work feeling refocused. $12. Cascade Yoga Studio, 5060 Cas-cade Road Suite G, Grand Rapids. 616-464-1610.

Yoga Class – 12:15-1pm. No experience is nec-essary. Wear comfortable clothing and bring mat. Space is limited. $10/class. To register mail your check to Barb Badolati, Frauenthal Center, 425 W Western Ave, Ste 308, Muskegon. 616-638-5625.

ThursdayTennis Lessons: Adult & Advanced Beginner – 11am-12pm. This 4 week Tennis class is designed for players who have little or no instruction. Fundamen-tal drills will cover the serve, forehand, backhand and volley. Scoring and match play will be introduced. $44 members / $52 non-members. 4250 Spartan Industrial Drive, Grandville. 616-538-4600.

Pilates – Yoga Mix at Noon – 12-12:55pm. $12. Take a noon class & return to work feeling refo-cused, realigned & rejuvenated. Cascade Yoga Stu-dio, 5060 Cascade Road Suite G, Grand Rapids. 616-464-1610.

Green Drinks GR Network – 5-7pm. 3rd Thurs-day. Join other environmental enthusiasts for casual networking and drinks. Grand Rapids. Info/loca-tion contact WMEAC at 616-451-3051.

Ama Deus Among Us - 7-8:30pm. An opportunity for practitioners of this healing technique to come together monthly to share and receive. Alternating the third Tuesday and Thursday evenings of the month. Ama-deus-international.com. For more info contact Sue at [email protected] or phone at 616-706-3869.

Zen Meditation – 7:30-8:30pm. Great Wave Zen Sangha in Ludington. Free. Visit greatwave.org or call 231-843-7116 or 231-845-5559.

FridayBreastfeeding Support Group – 10am. Every 3rd Friday. La Leche League of Grand Rapids. Rm. 14 - Wege Center, St. Mary’s Hospital, downtown Grand Rapids. Free. Kelly: 616-350-1402.

SundayZen Meditation – 7:30-8:30pm. Great Wave Zen Sangha in Ludington. Dharma talks with Q&A last Sunday of each month. Free. Visit greatwave.org or call 231-843-7116 or 231-845-5559.

Awakening – 9-9:45am. Chanting, to meditation, and beyond. Free. Christ Community Church, 225 E. Exchange, Spring Lake. 616-842-1985.

Christ Community Church – 10am. Gathering service with traditional and contemporary music and progressive message encouraging all to expand their consciousness. Childcare available. 225 E. Exchange, Spring Lake. 616-842-1985.

Unity Church on the Lakeshore – 10am. 41 So. Washington St., Douglas. 269-857-8226.

Unity Church of Peace – 10-11am. Presenting up-lifting and vibrant spiritual messages in warm and accepting atmosphere. Youth ministry grades 1-12 and nursery. 6025 Ada Dr, Ada. 616-682-7812.

Unity Church of Muskegon – 10:30-11:30am ser-vice. 2052 Bourdon St., Muskegon. 231-759-7356.

Unity Church of Practical Christianity – 10:30-11:30am God-centered, spiritual community of love, healing, peace and truth. Youth ministry grades 1-12 and nursery – pre-register by 10:20am. 1711 Walker Ave., Grand Rapids. 616-453-9909.

Fountain Street Church – 11am service. 24 Fountain St. NE, Grand Rapids. 616-459-8386.

The Coptic Center Sunday Series – 6pm. An ongoing series of inspirational speakers, centering and piano music which explores Universal Truths. Love Offering. 0-381 Lake Michigan Dr NW, Grand Rapids. 616-531-1339.

MondayPilates at Noon – 12-12:55pm. $12. Cascade Yoga Studio, 5060 Cascade Road Suite G, Grand Rapids. 616-464-1610.

Medicinal Herb Study Group – 7:00-8:30pm. Certification, professional training, home certifica-tion. Gaia School of Herbal Studies, Ann Arbor.Gaiaherbalstudies.net. 734-769-7794.

TuesdayPilates – Yoga Mix at Noon – 12-12:55pm. $12. Take a noon class & return to work feeling refo-cused, realigned & rejuvenated. Cascade Yoga Stu-dio, 5060 Cascade Road Suite G, Grand Rapids. 616-464-1610.

Energize your Body, Mind & Spirit – 6:30-7:30pm. Grounding & breathing exercises based on Bio Energetic techniques plus free-style dance and meditative experiences. You will energize your body mind & spirit with Karla Lenker. $8 /class. Angel Reflections, 1439 W Sherman Blvd, Muskegon. 231-759-3301.

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.

SaturdayHerbal Classes – 10:30am. 2nd Saturday. With Barb Huttinga. Free. The Healing Center, 332 S. Lincoln Ave, Lakeview. 989-352-6500.

Grief and Loss Share Group – 11am-12pm. Led by Nancy Dock, LMSW. $10. NLD Counseling, 4467 Cascade Rd., Ste 4481, Grand Rapids. 616-916-0943.

Month of MarchCJ’s Studio Salon - This Spring Awaken to Your Fullest Potential at CJ’s Studio Salon with New services: Patricia, with Neurological Trauma Release @ (616) 634-9150; Nancy with Chan-neled Energy Healing (616) 690-4104; Fran with Reiki Clearings & Protection 616-784-1996. Visit cjsstudiosalon.com Visual Proof Photography

Cover Photo by Jennifer Roede I am blessed to be one of those people who love what I do and do what I love. I just love photography and my inspira-tion comes from capturing the faces, personalities and those special moments between people. There is nothing I love more than photograph-ing animals, families, events, weddings (okay I love photographing babies and children too). I am honored to be able to share these special moments with people and provide them with photo-graphs that will help them remember and cherish these special times for years to come. Jennifer Roede is a local photographer located in West Michigan. Visual Proof Photography, 616-532-3140.

30 March 2009

ACUPUNCTURE

SAMIR RAJANI, MDMedical Acupuncturist mmpc Internal Medicine890 S. Washington, Ste. 130 Holland: 616-396-1907www.mmpc.com

Medical acupuncture can be an effective treatment for many chronic conditions, including pain, fatigue, depression and anxiety. Samir Rajani, MD is certified in medical acupuncture and practices at mmpc Internal Medicine.

ALTERNATIvE HEALTHPRACTITIONER

ouT of the BLuE inc.Nancy Despres RN, MBE351 Cummings NWGrand Rapids, MI 49534616-453-4215www.OutofTheBlueInc.net

Out of The Blue help others find alternative ways for achieving optimal health through the use of homeopathy, enzyme therapy and nutritional supplements. Ask about our Guaranteed Weight Loss Supplements.

ART THERAPY / ART PLAYMARY DAWSoN JACKSoN, ARTISTTendressa Studio617 Lyon N.E, Grand [email protected]

You do not need to be an artist to access your soul’s innate creativity, spontaneity, and child like wonder, through paint and pastels. Six-week sessions, starting in January 2009. $75.00. Call for times.

BOdYWORk

WHoLISTIC KINESIoLoGYHEALTH SERVICES, LLCBarbara Zvirzdinis, WK, CMT616-581-3885www.WKHealthServices.com

Certified Massage Therapist offering Therapeutic & LaStone Massage. Certified Wholistic Kinesiologist, Reconnection Healing Practitioner, Certified Herbalist, Certified Acutonics Practitioner, and a Certified Reflexologist. See ad, page 12.

thenaturaldirectory...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.

HEALTH EDuCATIoN CENTERTHE WELLNESS FoRuMSue Scharf, Director830 Forest Hill Ave., Grand Rapids616-942-7907

An international organization committed to health and wellness through education. Learn to make a healthy lifestyle easier through classes, workshops and cooking demos. See calendar section.

HEALTH FooD SToRESAFFoRDABLE NuTRITIoNJoel D. Manning, CNC®, Owner7493 Cottonwood Drive, Jenison616-667-1346

Certified Nutritional Consultant – member AANC, MI-CNHP, NPA. Nutritional counseling, weight loss, sports nutrition, senior discounts. Available for seminars/lectures. Select high quality vitamins and supplements.

HEALTH HuTTGrand Haven - 616-846-3026Grand Rapids - 616-776-9944Muskegon - 231-739-1568North Muskegon - 231-744-0852www.HealthHutt.net

Natural & organic foods, vitamins & herbs, sports nutrition, gluten free foods,

books, natural body care and more. See ad, page 25.

LAKESHoRE NATuRAL HEALTHJyl Balder, Owner5294 Grand Haven Rd., Norton Shores231-798-9922

Large quantity of high quality supplements, full grocery, organic produce, wheat / gluten free, 10% senior discounts. Jyl is a certified Holistic Health Care Practitioner. Family owned and operated. See ad, page 7.

NATuRE’S MARKET1013 S. Washington, Holland 616-394-5250 www.NaturesMarketHolland.com

Full service natural food store with all natural/organic deli. Offering organic and natural groceries. Gluten-free products. Organic and local

produce. Supplements and natural body care products. See ad, page 8.

CoLoN HYDRoTHERAPY

TRICIA E. GoSLINGHolistic Care Approach3368 Beltline Ct NEGrand Rapids616-481-9074

Offering an advanced client-centered dimension of colonics: gentle, safe and effective. Eliminate toxins and enhance well-being. 13 years of experience. Also offering Quantum Biofeedback sessions.

CouNSELING

JANICE DE LANGE, PH.D1514 Wealthy St. SE, Grand [email protected]

A mind-body-spirit approach for trauma and abuse recovery, PTSD, low sense of self-worth, panic & phobias, anxiety, depression, relationships. EMDR & Energy interventions.

NANCY L. DoCK, LMSW2015 Kalamazoo Ave., Suite 2 Grand Rapids, MI 49507616-916-0943 [email protected]

Clinical Social Worker. Over 15 years of

experience in Meditation, Relaxation, Holistic Healing, Crisis Intervention, PTSD, Grief and Loss, Anxiety, Chronic pain and Self-esteem issues. Groups and Individuals.

DENTISTRY / HoLISTIC

DENTAL HEALTH & WELLNESS CENTERDr. Kevin P. Flood DDS4990 Cascade Rd SE, Grand Rapids616-974-4990www.FloodTheDentist.com

Comprehensive Holistic Dental Services – Amalgam Removal & Replacement. Bio-Compatible, Metal-Free Materials, Low-Dose Digital X-Rays, Gentle Anesthesia.

Also Addressing Snoring and Sleep Apnea, Head & Neck Pain and Metal Sensitivity & Toxicity Issues. See ad, page 2.


uToPIAN MARKETPLACE8832 Water St., Montague231-894-9530www.UtopianMarketplace.com

Our friendly, knowledgeable staff provides a personalized shopping experience. We have a large selection of gluten-free foods, clothing, jewelry, herbs, supplements, local foods, gifts and more. Open Mic

events every month. See ad, page 21.

HoLISTIC HEALTH CENTERSCHIRoFIT WELLNESS CENTERDr. Lindsay Rademacher, DC2249 Wealthy Ste 240, East Grand Rapids616-458-CFITthechirofit.com

Offering integrated Health and Wellness Services. On-site Nutrition consulting with registered dietitian. Chiropractic combined with fitness protocols for strengthening supporting muscles. Massage and hot stone therapy provided by Cindy Mulkerin, CMT. Service packages are available.

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

Naturopathic / Holistic Practitioners. Licensed Physician Assistant, Certified Natural Health Professionals. Private consultations. Counseling & Classes. Blood typing, acupressure, emotional release, iridology, homeopathy and more. See ad, page 7.

HoMEoPATHYBoB HuTTINGA352 S. Lincoln Ave, Lakeview989-352-6500www.TheHealingCenterOfLakeview.com

A Physician assistant since 1976, specializing in naturopathic and homeopathic care. Also, certified Silva Method instructor. See ad, page 7.

KINESIoLoGYWHoLISTIC KINESIoLoGY HEALTH SERVICES, LLCBarbara Zvirzdinis, WK, CMT616-581-3885www.WKHealthServices.com

Certified Wholistic Kinesiologist, Certified Massage Therapist, Reconnection Healing Practitioner, Certified Herbalist, Certified Acutonics Practitioner, Certified Reflexologist. Specializing in muscle testing, massage, energy medicine, nutritional counseling. See ad, page 12.

MIDWIFERY

BIRTH SoNG MIDWIFERY SERVICESYolanda Visser CM, CPMGrand Rapids 616-458-8144www.BirthSongGR.com

Homebirth services since 1982. Committed to facilitating natural birth, bonding, strengthening the family, informed

active participation, and lending dignity to women through their birthing experience.

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

In private practice since 1982 - specializing in homebirth. Over 1200 births attended. Offering midwifery care that maintains a family-

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

HoME BIRTHWoRKS, LLCSusan Wente, CNM, Dr. PH231-652-3247www.HomeBirthworks.com

This regions only Certified Nurse Midwife with 28 years experience – over 3000 births attended. Providing pre-natal, home birth and postpartum care. Gynecological and Doula services available.

REIKIREIKI HAuSPaula Bojsen Holland: 616-392-1138www.ReikiHaus.com

Offering quality Reiki classes & treatments at affordable prices. Certified Usui Reiki Master Teacher & Gendai Reiki Shihan. All levels, Reiki Master classes and Gendai Reiki Gokukaiden. Learn pure Japanese Reiki.

SALoNAESTHETICA IMAGE GRouPSally Ann Loew2312 28th St SE Ste CGrand Rapids, MI. 49508616-299-1796

Full Service Salon featuring an Exclusive Organic Hair Color that uses only certified organic ingredients,

contains absolutely no ammonia, yet still produces vibrant color while avoiding the itchy scalp and the toxic odors. See ad, page 12.

32 March 2009

natural awakenings magazine ~ march 2009

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