natural awakenings magazine ~ may 2009

1NaturalWestMichigan.comLocal News • Health Briefs • Community Calendar

May 2009

H E A L T H Y L I V I N G

West Michigan Edition

Natural Health • Green Living • Fitness • Nutrition • Personal Growth

FREE

n a t u r a l CHILDBIRTH

Ina May Gaskin

GARDENING w i t h k i d sINDULGE

MOM

healthy brunch recipes

earth-friendly tips

2 May 2009

For more inFormation and a Free market study call 239-530-1377

HEALTHY LIVINGHEALTHY PLANET

FEBRUARY 2009 Collier / Lee Edition | swfl .naturalawakeningsmag.com FREE

feel goodlive simplylaugh more

BETTER BLINGjewelry with a conscience

LOVE YOUR LIFEhow to create positive change

what to knowhow to help

TEEN ANXIETY

currently publishing Natural Awakeningsmagazines for sale:

atlanta, GaPhoenix, aZ

tallahassee, Fl

Our Green and Healthy Living industry is growing within a recession economy.

Work at Home low investment

Financing available

marketing toolsGreat support teammeaningful new career

Visit us online at naturalawakeningsmag.com

Be Your own Boss...

publish your own Natural Awakenings magazine

As a Natural Awakenings publisher, your magazine will help thousands of readers to make positive changes in their lives, while promoting local practitioners and providers of natural, Earth-friendly lifestyles. You will be creating a healthier community while building your own financial security working from your home.

No publishing experience is necessary. You’ll work for yourself but not by yourself. We offer a complete training and support system that allows you to successfully publish your own magazine.

Now serving: •Birmingham,AL•Huntsville,AL•Mobile/Baldwin,AL•LittleRock/HotSprings,AR•Phoenix,AZ•Tucson,AZ•Boulder,CO•Denver,CO•HartfordCounty,CT•FairfieldCounty,CT•NewHaven/Middlesex,CT•Daytona/Volusia/Flagler,FL•NWFLEmeraldCoast•Ft.Lauderdale,FL•Jacksonville/St.Augustine,FL•Melbourne/VeroBeach,FL•Miami&FloridaKeys•Naples/Ft.Myers,FL•NorthCentralFlorida•Orlando,FL•PalmBeach,FL•Sarasota,FL

•Tallahassee,FL•Tampa/St.Petersburg,FL•Florida’sTreasureCoast•Atlanta,GA•Augusta,GA•Lexington,KY•Louisville-Metro,KY•NewOrleans,LA•AnnArbor,MI•GrandRapids,MI•GreaterGenesee,MI•GreaterOakland/Macomb,MI•WayneCounty,MI•CentralMissouri•Asheville,NC•Charlotte,NC•Raleigh/Durham/ChapelHill,NC•NorthCarolinaSouthernCoast,NC•Somerset-MiddlesexCounties,NJ•MorrisCounty,NJ•SantaFe/Albuquerque,NM•LongIsland,NY•NewYorkCity,NY

•Rockland/OrangeCounties,NY•Westchester/PutnamCounties,NY•Cincinnati,OH•Tulsa,OK•Portland,OR•LehighValley,PA•RhodeIsland•Charleston,SC•Columbia,SC•GrandStrand,SC•Greenville,SC•Chattanooga,TN•Knoxville,TN•Austin,TX•EastTexas•Houston,TX•SanAntonio,TX•Richmond,VA•Southwestern,VA•Madison,WI•PuertoRico

3NaturalWestMichigan.com

Natural Awakenings is your guide to a healthier, more

balanced life. In each issue readers find cutting-edge

information on natural health, nutrition, fitness, personal

growth, green living, creative expression and the products

and services that support a healthy lifestyle.www.naturalWestmichigan.com

dePartments inside tHis issue

More healthbriefs

More globalbriefs

News

Articles

Archives

Calendar

Classifieds

naturaldirectory

naturalwestmichigan.com

noW online

publishersletter4

newsbriefs5

globalbriefs8

healthbriefs10

greenliving12

healingways14

inspiration17

consciouseating18

fitbody26

naturalpet28

healthykids32

calendar34

ongoingevents36

classifieds37

naturaldirectory38

Be Your own Boss...

publish your own Natural Awakenings magazine

How to adVertiseto advertise with Natural Awakenings or request a media kit, please contact us at 616-656-9232 or email: [email protected]. deadline for space reservation is the 12th of each month prior to publication.

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. calendar deadline is the 15th of the month prior to publication.

wHere to PicK uP natural awaKeninGsif you enjoyed this magazine and would like to know where you can pick up a free copy in your area, please contact us at 616-656-9232 or email us at:[email protected]

eco-Friendly Baby showers 12by Helen Coronato

Pregnancy, children, and chiropractic care 16by Dr. Michael Burcon

spring clean your life 17by Tom Francescott

dental Fillings toxicto the environment 20by Dr. Kevin Flood

Women as leaders 21by Linda Sechrist

Boning up 26exercise Helps maintain and restore Bone density by Katy Santiago

Gardening With kids 32by Ted Fisher

PG. 12

PG. 32

PG. 21

4 May 2009

letterfrompublishers

Subscriptions are available by sending $30 (12 issues) to the

above address.

© 2009 by Natural Awakenings. All rights reserved. Although some parts of this publication may be repro-duced and reprinted, we require that prior permission be obtained in writing.

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

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

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

PublishersKyle & Amy Hass

editorsMaryAnn LawrenceS. Alison Chabonais

Linda SechristJulie Hurley

design & ProductionInteractive Media Design

Scott Carvey

PrinterNewsweb

Jeff Verheek

natural awakenings484 Sunmeadow Dr. SEGrand Rapids, MI 49508

Phone: 616-656-9232

[email protected]

contact us

committed to sustainaBility

Natural Awakeningsis locally owned and operated.

Having published five issues of Natural Awakenings since signing on to this

adventure in November, Kyle and I feel that we are making good progress in getting a firm grasp and understanding of what our local community needs and would like to see in the magazine. This month’s focus on Women’s Health will help you ensure and celebrate the well-being of all the women in your life. Next month, it’s the gentlemen’s turn, with our focus on Men’s Health. The editorial in both has relevance to all who care enough

to boost the natural health of ourselves and loved ones. The number one thing I do to enliven my own energy and outlook is making time for self-care. I highly recommend the practice. For example, I love to read. On a beautiful spring day I sometimes sit outside with a blanket and read until it gets dark. Why not head outside this week, maybe right this minute, to breathe the fresh air and listen to birds chirping? Of course, you’ll want to remember to grab your copy of Natural Awakenings magazine as a restful com-panion. I also love to take springtime walks and or ride my bicycle along Michigan’s many budding trails. Our dog, Thai can’t wait to clamber into the handlebar basket. I’ve learned that no matter how busy life gets, it’s essential to do the small things that make my soul sing. Otherwise, I’m not juiced up to give my best to others. Be sure to check out “Spring Clean Your Life” by Tom Francescott on page 17 for more tips on good things you can do to keep yourself humming along in fine form. Maybe the whole family can embark on a spring detoxification. Ultimately, you will reap the benefits of a happier you and a happy significant other. As my husband often opines, “A happy wife equals a happy life.” We both wish to extend heart-felt thanks to all of our advertisers, to the businesses that distribute our magazine, and to all of you, the thousands of loyal readers who pick up a copy each month to inhale cover to cover, and then act on and benefit from what you glean. We welcome your feedback on how we are doing in helping you in your journey, as well as what we can do to make this publication ever better.

Happy spring,

Amy


newsbriefsPreventing and Reversing Disease through DietDr. Pam Popper will discuss the physiological effects of diet

and how the body can heal itself during a free seminar May 20 at Grand Rapids Community College. The session will begin at 7 p.m. Popper will explain the connec-tion between what we eat and how our body functions and protects us from disease. Popper, Ph.D., N.D., is a naturopath, nutritionist and Executive Director of The Wellness Forum. She has authored several books and cook-books, as well as general programs for

medical professionals. To register, contact Sue Scharf at the Wellness Forum at 616-942-7907. See ad page 38.

Environmentalists Establish Children’s Educational ProgramsTracy Purrenhage and Juli Kushel are environmentalists that

share a passion for education. These former colleagues have joined together to provide environmental education services and programs. Their new website, EcoSizeMe.com is formatted to share simple and practical suggestions, ideas and thoughts for changing the environment one step at a time. The assemblies and presentations are geared toward schools and community groups. Topics focus on teaching our youth how to be and live green. They are appropriate all year long in support of the Michigan Green Schools Program and Department of Education Science Benchmarks. For a list of programs visit EcoSizeMe.com.

State to Hold Conference on Michigan’s Green Jobs MarketA daylong Green Today, Jobs Tomorrow

conference will be held on May 11 at the Lansing Center. The conference will focus on workforce and economic devel-opment for Michigan’s emerging green economy, particularly the three emerging sectors: alternative energy, green building and agricultural and natural resource conservation. The Department of Labor and Economic Growth (DLEG) is investing $6 million in green jobs, education and training programs. Michigan.gov/GreenJobs offers information on in-ternships and jobs, education and training opportunities and collaborative partnerships. To sign up for email updates, Michigan.gov/GreenJobsConference or 517-243-7882.

Dr. Pam Popper

Green Festival is Largestin NationThe Chicago Green

Festival, the largest and most authentic green consumer event in the nation, will be held May 16 and 17 at the Chicago Navy Pier. A joint project of Global Exchange and Green America (formerly Co-op America), Green Festi-val is a forum to explore and build sustainable solutions for our communities and the environment. Drawing more than 30,000 attendees, the festival will host visionary speakers, hundreds of local and national green businesses, and dozens of community groups. Some events include talks, exhibits and panel discussions on sustainable practices as well as workshops, classes, music and samples of organic products. Cost is $15, but children under 18 are free. All union members, seniors, students and those who arrive by mass transit or bike receive $5 off their admission ticket. Now in its eighth year, the Green Festival circuit includes San Francisco, Washington D.C., Seattle and Denver. For more information, visit GreenFestivals.org/Chicago

Energy Star Partner of the Year Assists Area SchoolsEnergy Education, which helps organiza-

tions reduce their energy consumption, has been presented with the distinguished ENERGY STAR Partner of the Year Award for 2009 by the United States Department of Energy and Environmental Protection Agency. The ENERGY STAR Partner of the Year Award recog-nizes organizations that have made outstanding contributions to protecting the environment through superior energy effi-ciency. Energy Education has helped a number of Michigan organizations including the school districts of Lowell, Jenison, Cedar Springs, East Grand Rapids, Newaygo, Comstock Park, Sparta and Mt Pleasant. For more information visit EnergyEducation.com.

Once you find what motivates you, you will be able to achieve your highest goals.

– Christina Pagliarulo.

6 May 2009

newsbriefs

Amy Miller

D.O. Opens New Officein Grand RapidsDr. Keri Topouzian, who specializes in anti-aging func-

tional medicine, has opened a new office at 1000 East Paris Av. Suite 138, Grand Rapids. This office is one of several throughout Michigan. The largest, Grand Rapids, offers intra-venous therapies for Cancer, CFS, Fibromyalgia, chronic pain, environmental toxins, malabsorption syndromes, and vitamin and mineral deficiencies. “Most people that come to see us in the practice are from patient referrals or are frustrated with the present medical system,” says Topouzian, who holds a degree in osteopathic medicine. “They do not want to just be prescribed medica-tion; they want to know what is wrong with them, what is the underlying cause of a problem. Many are sick and tired of being sick and tired.” Call 616-285-3707 or email [email protected].

Holland Area Fitness Expert Joins EcoTrekAmy Miller has joined EcoTrek Fitness, the outdoor workout

host, as the Holland area’s series leader. Miller and her husband, Shawn, own FLEX Fitness Center in Holland. She has been a fitness trainer in Holland for seven years.

“The parks and trails we have are just awesome. I’m look-ing forward to exploring new areas,” says Miller. “Not only is there the benefit of exercise, but being outdoors in the sun-shine (or rain or snow) and fresh air, too” states Miller.

Miller plans to fire-up the series full-blast in May. Eco-

Trek sessions run 75 minutes and incorporate the elements of cardio, strength training and stretching. Each leader adds her individual spin to the workout according to the location, which is different every time. This keeps it fun and interesting -- yet effective, because EcoTrekkers will burn fat, increase lean muscle mass and improve their flexibility, all in one workout. Learn more at EcoTrekFitness.com. See ad page 23.

Website HighlightsLocal Stuff for KidsGrand Rapids Kids (GrKids.com) is a website for parents

in the Greater Grand Rapids Area. The first one of its kind, the site is for parents of newborns through children 12

years old. The site provides a daily event calendar, a blog, list of day camps and classes, links to area parks, academic resources and area story times. One page is devoted to res-taurants where kids eat free. A weekly newsletter is sent out to subscribers highlighting up-coming events and other new information on the website. GrKids.com was started by Melody VanderWeide, local mom who quit her teaching job to be home with her chil-dren. “The site will always be a free resource for parents, and anyone may submit an event for consideration on the calendar or material for the website,” she says. Contact VanderWeide at [email protected] or 616-516-0995.

Art Therapy Art PlayTendressa Studio, 617 Lyon Ave, in Grand Rapids, believes

that we all have inner artists. Letting go of fear is the first step toward discovering our creative side. Spring sessions will begin Tuesday, May 19. Summer sessions begin Thursday, June 18. Art projects will vary. Some examples are personal affirmation cards, dream and vision maps, animal helpers, inner self portraits, a con-tainer to house our emotions, and family murals. Sessions are open to anyone 12 and older. Choose from four, six, eight or 10 week sessions. All classes are $40.

To register contact Tendressa Studio at [email protected] or call 616-949-6234. See ad page 38.

Natural AwakeningsGoes DigitalOur new carbon neutral digital publication is now avail-

able online at NaturalWestMichigan.com. We are pleased to offer our readers the opportunity to find great articles as well as our calendar, links to advertisers, wellness directories and local news. Learn more about our magazine, submit content and find practitioners who will help you on the road to wellness. We hope you will take the time to read our web exclusive articles too, which are not available in print form. Writers and editors go in depth to provide our readers with information from health and wellness to sustainable business practices. Email us at [email protected] or call 616-656-9232.


332 S. LincolnLakeview

989-352-6500

In Your Own Hands

Put your Health

www.TheHealingCenterOfLakeview.com

Holistic HealthTraditional, Homeopathic,

& Herbal

Rev. Barbara & Bob Huttinga PA-CCertified Natural Health Practitioners &

Naturopathic Educators

Healing TechniquesNutrition Consultation,

Iridology,Muscle Testing,

Reflexology,Therapeutic Massage,Light Touch Healing,Ionic Detoxification

Blue Cross and Medicare Accepted

Now OfferingWhole Body Vibration

Therapy

• Reduces Cellulite• Increases Circulation• Non-Impact Exercise• Increases Endurance

• Increases Bone Density• Increases Muscle Mass

• Decreases Fluid Retention• Loosens Joints & Muscles

• Speed Trauma (Stroke) Recovery

10 Minutes Equals 4 Miles Jogging

$1 per5 Minutes

Also Available for

Purchase

The Healing Center

newsbriefs

Mikula Chiropracticmoves to New LocationMikula Chiropractic, P.C., of Grand Rapids, has moved to a new location at

4029 Plainfield Ave. N.E., just across the street from their prior location. In addition to chiropractic services, Mikula Chiropractic also offers massage therapy services with certified massage therapist Jessica Nelson. Drs. Brian and Jean Mikula have been providing chiropractic services to the community since 1996. Their main focus is on family wellness, providing care for adults, children and babies. Contact Mikula Chiropractic at [email protected] or 616-365-0255.

CorrectionIn the April issue the website for Inner Sanctum was printed incorrectly. Please visit Inner-Sanctum.com to order and learn more about Lisa Guyman’s five-CD set, Journey Through Reiki.

8 May 2009

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

globalbriefs

Seas the DayCelebrate World Ocean Day June 8Thousands of concerned citizens will gather on World Ocean Day, June 8, to deepen awareness of the universal benefits and alarming plight of Earth’s oceans, and the need to stop human activities from harming them. Inspir-ing community events, activities and celebrations will roll out at aquariums, zoos, museums and other educational institutions in all 50 states and 70 countries, based on the 2009 theme, “One climate, one ocean, one future.” According the World Ocean Network, the oceans have, “never deterio-rated so much in five years.” Fish populations are falling sharply; invasive spe-cies and diseases are spreading; coral reefs are dying; and pollution continues to threaten marine life, including plankton and shellfish that form the base of the food chain. Escalating carbon dioxide saturation is acidifying and altering ecologies in the warming waters of our oceans, which play a crucial role in maintaining Earth’s climate.

Find ideas for individuals, families, communities, artists, educators and conser-vationists who want to join in at TheOceanProject.org/wod/wod_ideas.php.

Go WildWhy Lawns are Passé Starting next year, gasoline-powered lawn mowers, chain saws and weed trimmers, as well as boats and other watercraft, must clean up their act. New Environmental Protection Agency emission and fuel evaporation standards for new, small, spark-ignition engines take effect with 2010 models. They’ll now have catalytic converters, like those required in cars since 1975. A riding lawn mower, for instance, currently emits as much pollution in an hour as 34 cars. The move, “will allow Americans to cut air pollution, as well as grass,” quips EPA administra-tor Stephen L. Johnson. By 2030, the improvement will cut 15 percent of the nation’s annual hydrocarbon pollution load, includ-ing 600,000 tons of hydrocarbons, 130,000 tons of nitrogen oxide, 1.5 million tons of carbon monoxide and 5,500 tons of fine particulates. It’s like removing one of every five vehicles on the road, notes the National Association of Clean Air Agencies. This means less summer-time smog, with associated reduc-tions in respiratory illness, hospital-izations, lost workdays and deaths. NASA researchers estimate that, despite widespread water shortages, chemical fertilizer pollution and injuries from mowers, Americans still cling to 50,000 square miles of lawns. “[Lawns] could be considered the single largest irrigated crop in America, in terms of surface area,” they report, consuming a third of all residential water use. Plus, lawns receive more pesticide and herbicide application than any other U.S. crop. They advise that just leaving clip-pings on the grass could nearly halve the current volume of synthetic nitrogen fertilizer used.

Secondary Source: Environmental Defense Fund

Universal PowerNew Charger Will Work with Most Mobile Phones

The GSM Association, representing the mobile com-munications industry in 219 countries, will embrace a

universal charger standard by 2012. The new universal charger, using a Micro-USB connector, will be compat-ible with the majority of new phones. It’s expected to be

50 percent more efficient in its standby energy use than existing chargers and will help eliminate an estimated 51,000 tons of e-waste, because fewer chargers will be thrown away with each new phone purchase.

Source: GreenerComputing.com


Main StreetHigh-Five for Historic Preservation and SustainabilityThe 2009 National Main Streets Conference shouted out the good news: Despite tough economic challenges, America’s historic commercial districts are holding on, and even thriving. Doug Loescher, director of

National Trust Main Street Center, shared the results of the organization’s lat-est survey, showing that 27 percent of Main Street districts—communities with preservation-based economic development programs in place—are not reporting severe negative effects from the challenging national economy. In many communi-ties, business openings seem to be outpacing closings by two to one. Coordinated “Buy Local” campaigns also are working. This year’s American Main Street awards went to Green Bay, Wisconsin; El Dorado, Arkansas; Baltimore, Maryland; Livermore, California; and Rehoboth Beach, Delaware. Honorees also included Aledo, Illinois; Toccoa, Georgia; Oberlin, Ohio; Fairmont, West Virginia; and Rochester, Michigan. Main Streets are at the heart of key current trends related to investing in local assets: rehabilitating older and historic buildings; bolstering local businesses; and building public and private partnerships. Healthy Main Streets present a living, working textbook of principles at the heart of economic and environmental sustainability.

Sources: NationalTrust.org and MainStreet.org.

Staying RealCommunity Banking Expands to Meet DemandCustomers tired of robotic answering machines, low CD rates, overdraft fees and megabanks’ lack of personal relationships often turn to a local bank. More than 8,500 community banks—98 percent of all banking institu-tions—offer a comforting antidote to the “too big to fail” promises of surprisingly vulnerable supersize institutions. They quietly continue to conduct neighborly business in 50,000 U.S. locations. According to the Small Business Association, they also provide 35 percent of all loans under $1 million. The FDIC notes that almost 93 percent of all banks in this country manage assets under $1 billion, with nearly 40 percent hav-ing less than $100 million. “Community banking is coming back to basics” says Bruce Jensen, who, after 33 years of service with the larger financial institutions, left to establish Town and Country Bank, in St. George, Utah. “In the end, it is about customer convenience and understanding customer needs and goals.” It’s easy to shop for the right bank starting with the Community Bank Locator at the Independent Community Bankers of America website, icba.org. Verify that it is FDIC insured at fdic.gov/deposit/index.html and compare rates at BankRate.com. Then, call and visit to assess how management educates clients and how the bank’s style matches one’s own personal values and needs.

Source: The Christian Science Monitor

globalbriefs Pump SavvyPortal to Real-time Gas PricesGasBuddy.com offers instant, user-friendly access to the today’s lowest priced gasoline pit stops, by area. The nonprofit GasBuddy Organiza-tion, Inc. notes that gas prices not only change frequently, but can vary by as much as 20 percent within a few blocks. Motorists, too, can contribute updates online, based on information gleaned as they combine errands around town or take a fuel-wise local vacation. The site helps every-one save bucks for more fun activities.

When you are a

mother, you are

never really alone

in your thoughts. A

mother always has to

think twice, once for

herself and once for

her child.

- Sophia Loren

10 May 2009

Friendship among Women Benefits HealthA landmark University of California, Los

Angeles study now suggests that women have a larger behavioral repertoire than men

in the face of stress. “It seems that the hormone oxytocin is released as part of the stress responses in a woman; it buffers the “fight or flight” response and encour-ages her to tend children and gather with other women, instead,” reports Laurel Cousino Klein, Ph.D., who co-authored the study. “When she actually engages in this tending or befriending, [such] studies suggest that more oxytocin is released, which further counters stress and produces a calming effect.” Klein explains that this calming effect does not occur in men because tes-tosterone, which men produce in high levels when they’re under stress, seems to reduce the effects of oxytocin. “Estrogen,” she says, “seems to enhance it.” The phenomenon has been missed in the past because 90 percent of stress research has been done with men. Ruthellen Josselson, Ph.D., who has authored a book on female friendships, comments: “Every time we get overly busy with work and family, the first thing we do is let go of friendships with other women. That’s really a mistake, because women are such a source of strength to each other.”

Plants Help HealA recent study published in HortTechnology shows that

flowers, especially potted plants, in hospital rooms, can speed the recovery of patients who have undergone surgery. Data took into account the length of hospitalization, use of drugs for pain control and the patient’s ratings of pain, fatigue and anxiety—all of which were reduced when the patient’s room was accented with natural greenery. ~ American Society for Horticultural Science, 2008

Countering Menopausal Depression naturally

Psychological distress and depression are common symptoms experienced by many premenopausal and menopausal women. now a new study, published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, indicates that consuming omega-3 fatty acids may offer natural relief. at the end of the researchers’ 8-week study period of women ages 40 to 55, those who ingested one gram of omega-3 in capsule form daily, reported considerable reduction of hot flashes and fewer symptoms of psychologi-cal stress and depression than those who had taken a sunflower oil supplement. Good to know, especially for women already consuming omega-3s for heart health.

Source: Université Laval, 2009

healthbriefs

think twice Before drinking sodaWomen who drink two or more cans of soda pop a

day are nearly twice as likely to show early signs of kidney disease, according to a new study by Loyola University Health System. Researchers did not find an elevated risk for men or for people who drink diet soda, says lead researcher David Shoham. The study examined data from a representative sample of 9,358 U.S. adults in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey.

~ Loyola University Health System, 2009


Vigorous exercise cuts Breast cancer riskWhile previous studies have shown that exercise may protect against breast

cancer, a new study by the National Cancer Institute of the U.S. National Institutes of Health points out that not all exercise qualifies. In following 32,269 women for 11 years, the researchers discovered that those engaging in vigorous exercise on a regular basis were the ones less likely to develop the disease, regardless of their weight. Their reduced risk amounted to a stunning 30 percent. Activities that qualify as vigorous include heavy housework, like scrubbing floors and washing windows, or heavy yard work, such as digging or chopping wood. Healthful, fun activities included fast jogging, competitive tennis, bicycling on hills and fast dancing. The study suggests two possible mechanisms responsible for the benefit measured: enhanced immune function and decreased inflammation in the body. It’s important to note that excess weight is believed to increase the risk of cancer.

Source: Breast Cancer Research, 2008

Hormone Therapy Linked To Brain Shrinkage

Two new studies report that hormone therapy—a still commonly prescribed form of postmenopausal treatment—may slightly accelerate the loss of brain

tissue in women 65 and older, beyond what normally occurs with aging. “This is not what we expected to find,” reported one of the researchers. The investigating scientists, using MRI scans to look for increased volumes of brain lesions among women who had taken hormone therapy, discovered their brain volume had shrunk in two critical areas: the frontal lobe and the hippo-campus. Both of these areas are involved in thinking and memory skills. Loss of volume in the hippocampus is also a risk factor for dementia. More than 1,400 women ages 71 to 89 participated in the study.

Source: Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center, 2009

BonDing with BaBythe bonds that tie a mother to her new- born may be stronger in women who deliver naturally than in those who deliver by cesarean, or c-section, according to yale school of medicine researchers. it appears that a woman’s brain is “primed” by vaginal delivery, which affects the production of oxytocin, a neurohormone linked to emotion-al connection and feelings of love.

~ Yale University, 2008

For more information about advertising and how

you can participate, call

616-656-9232

Get in the zone of physical and mental

well-being with natural healing tips especially for you, in theJune edition of

Natural Awakenings.

Men’s HEALTH

Coming in JuneCalling all MEN!

12 May 2009

by Helen coronato

Congratulations! You or someone you love is expecting, and friends and family are cooking up a baby shower. These entertaining ideas will make it possible to celebrate in a green theme that honors the mother-to-be, while cherishing the Earth as a welcoming destination.

1. Set the Sustainable SceneChoose a location that’s in line with your inten-tion. An outdoor picnic is a relaxed way to enjoy a potluck lunch that comes complete with containers for guests to carry home any leftovers, reducing food waste. An afternoon tea, where guests bring their favor-ite cup and saucer, is a fun way to gather and eliminates the temptation of disposable plasticware.

2. Manage the MenuConsider the amount of food needed to satisfy guests, banish excess and make the most of seasonal and organic menu ingredients. A hearty vegetarian chili and locally baked bread is a satisfying, simple lunch that everyone can enjoy; leftovers freeze easily. Focus on one high-quality dish and skip bloated buffets.

3. Green the GiftsAsk guests to bring a frozen meal for the expectant parents to rely upon during those first few weeks of sleepless nights, or a gently used “re-gift,” to give only-worn-once clothes and barely touched toys a new home. Also, direct everyone to a cloth diapering site, where they can purchase one reus-able diaper for the wishing well. Many people want to go green, but are new to nursery ideas, so be sure to provide the details.

4. Wrap It UpBring out guests’ competitive spirit by challenging them to come up with the most creative and sustainable gift wrap. Bows, ribbons and traditional papers can be traded in for receiving blankets, old paper maps or a beautiful new scarf for mom. Gift toppers could include pine cones or wooden teething rings. Reward guests for their bright ideas with a compact fluorescent light bulb.

eco-friendlyBaby Showers10 Steps to Sustainable Style

5. Include the GuestsMake sure guests understand the intention of the afternoon and invite them to be an intimate part of the celebration by bringing along a personalized memento for the new mom. They might pass along a favorite book they have read to their own child or a framed photo of the guest of honor when she was a baby.

6. Spread the WordOnline party invitations have become more popular, but if you opt for printed invites, use a decorated 8½ by 11 sheet of post-consumer, recycled paper. It’s not only more economical than packaged invitations, it has space for all the green party details; plus, the rest of the ready-to-print computer paper is available for future projects.

7. Gather the TribeGive the expectant mom what other experts cannot: kitchen table wisdom. Pass around a journal and ask guests to finish a simple, but poignant statement like, “What I wish most

greenliving


for you is…” or “Looking back, I wish I would have known…” Along with reducing, reusing, and recycling, going green is a spiritual practice.

8. Make Something BeautifulBeautifully mark the occasion by creating a one-of-a-kind gift for the baby. Ask friends and family to paint their palm and leave a handprint on an oversized plant pot, to be kept in the nursery. Gather scraps of fabric and invite attendants to cut out a heart shape, write their name on it and ad-here it to a pillowcase with fabric glue, for the baby to rest on. Don’t worry if the project is perfect, the intention already is.

9. Do Everyone a FavorSay farewell with seasonal gifts, like small pumpkins in the fall or packets of seeds in the spring. Better than any token of appreciation will be the memories that friends and family take home.

10. Thank-youEveryone enjoys receiving a thank-you; make sure yours sticks by mailing a photo magnet to guests. Develop pic-tures of the party, cut and glue a photo to discarded cardboard and “laminate” with packing tape, then attach a craft magnet to the back. Insert the mag-net into an envelope and write, “You helped make the day picture perfect,” on the inside flap. This personal keep-sake helps preserve the memories and the environment.

Helen Coronato is an author, speaker and consultant. Her latest book, Eco-Friendly Families, is packed with concrete advice, useful tips and fun strategies for families who want to go green. Visit Helen-Coronato.com.

14 May 2009

healingways

No PeriodsPros and cons of menstrual suppression

by lisa marshall

Some see it as a curse that dashes vacation plans, stains sheets and wreaks havoc on emotions. Others

view it as an integral part of woman-hood, a welcome sign that we are healthy—and not pregnant. But, in an age with a pill for just about every-thing, more women are looking at their menstrual cycle as something else entirely: optional. “Fifty years ago, with the advent of The Pill, suppressing ovulation became an option for women who did not want to get pregnant. Skipping your period [altogether] is also an option, and I think a lot more women are going to do it,” says Leslie Miller, a Seattle ob-stetrician and gynecologist and founder of the website NoPeriod.com, which coaches people on how to become period-free, via various forms of contraception. Drug companies have made it easier than ever. In July 2007, Wyeth Pharmaceuticals rolled out Lybrel, the first oral contraceptive designed to not only prevent pregnancy but also elimi-nate periods for a year or more. Before that, came the popular Seasonale and Seasonique, “extended cycle” birth control pills, to reduce menses to four times a year. Yaz, a top-seller in this country, reduces periods to three days or fewer; it is also said to address severe acne and premenstrual dysphor-ic disorder (PMDD). Then there is Depo Provera, a quarterly injection,

and the Merina intrauterine device (IUD); both can, in some cases, halt periods completely. Unlike conventional birth-control pills, many such products are marketed to all women, not just the sexually active aiming to prevent pregnancy, via a slew of websites, industry-sponsored blogs, how-to books and TV advertisements, promising liberation from that messy time of month. “Fewer periods. More possibilities,” cheers one Seasonale ad. But, amidst the celebratory media blitz has come outrage: from physi-cians, who fear we may be putting

women in danger; government regula-tors, who say the ads go too far; and feminists, who wonder what message we are sending our daughters. “It’s a horrifying prospect,” states Susan Rako, a Boston psychiatrist and author of The Blessings of the Curse: No More Periods? “Encouraging healthy young girls and women to do away with their periods for the sake of convenience, without educating them about the health benefits of a normal menstrual cycle, as well as the risks of menstrual suppression, is irresponsible and unethical.”

“Encouraging healthy young girls and women to do

away with their periods for the sake of convenience, without

educating them about the health benefits

of a normal menstrual cycle, as well as the risks of

menstrual suppression, is irresponsible and unethical.”

— Susan Rako, M.D.


20th Century RootsThe notion of using oral contraception to keep menstruation at bay is nothing new. The first “pill” approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1957 was intended not as a means of preventing pregnancy, but as a remedy for severe menstrual disorders. During initial trials, women took a pill each day, suppressed ovulation and menstruation, and for many, their period became a thing of the past. But, under pressure from religious groups, who thought not having periods seemed unnatural, the pill’s creators added a week of placebos, and the monthly, “withdrawal bleed” was born. “The thinking was that women would find this more acceptable, that they would feel like they were having their normal period,” says Susan Ernst, a medical doctor and chief of gynecol-ogy services for the University Health Service at the University of Michigan. Ever since, doctors have quietly ad-vised women with a looming honey-moon or camping trip to simply toss out the placebos and skip to day one in their next packet. In the past decade, as drug companies have scrambled to repack-age and thus, renew patents on old contraception, the once-hushed notion of ongoing menstrual suppression has become an industry, propelled by a marketing machine. That worries Christine Hitchcock, Ph.D., a researcher with the Centre for Menstrual Cycle and Ovulation Research, in British Columbia: “We just don’t know what the long-term risks are,” she says.

Evaluating the RiskData from the Women’s Health Initia-tive, a 15-year research project funded by the National Institutes of Health, has shown repeatedly that oral contra-ceptive use is linked to increased risk of stroke, heart attacks and blood clots in women. According to the NIH, studies also have shown that women who take birth control pills are at greater risk of breast cancer. A 2006 review in the journal Adolescent

Medicine found that use of certain forms of oral and injectible contracep-tives can prompt accelerated bone loss, or stunted bone growth, in teen users. Although the data, overall, is inconclusive, a few small studies over the years have even suggested such pills may interfere with testosterone production, prompting reduced libido and depression. By skipping the placebos and tak-ing The Pill continuously, are women further boosting these risks? Other questions loom. Does bleed-ing itself rid the body of harmful elements such as precancerous cells in the uterine lining or excess iron? Researchers have hypothesized that the reason men and postmenopausal women have more strokes and heart attacks than naturally cycling women is because they don’t bleed—and thus, store excess iron. Does a week of placebos give breast tissue a necessary break from all that estrogen? For anyone, including celibate women who opt to medicate away menstruation and its unpleasant symptoms, do the benefits outweigh the risks? For the most part, experts agree those questions haven’t been answered. Critics also point out that cycle-stopping pills are notorious for prompt-ing spotting between periods. Because they use lower hormone dosages to make them safer for continuous use, some fear they may not be as effective in preventing pregnancy. For example, in one Wyeth-sponsored study of 2,134 women, 15 women who took the pills correctly got pregnant, anyway.

Even the FDA has scolded adver-tisers of Seasonale and Yaz for over-promising freedom from menstruation-related problems, while underplaying the risks. In February 2009, Yaz began running a $20 million corrective ad campaign in response to FDA com-plaints. On the other hand, Miller points out, periods can be painful and incon-venient and having fewer or none can be liberating. Because Western women have fewer children and don’t nurse as long as they used to, they have nearly four times as many periods as those in primitive, agricultural societies. Ovulation and menstruation are about getting pregnant,” Miller con-cludes. “If you aren’t going to get preg-nant, you shouldn’t have to bleed.” Medical issues aside, the idea of stopping menstruation carries with it significant cultural implications; many see it as nothing short of a threat to womanhood. “I think, as a culture, we have come a long way in trying to prepare young girls for menarche and tell them this is an exciting time in their lives,” observes Ingrid Johnston-Robledo, an associate professor of psychology and women’s studies at The State University of New York at Fredonia. “Now, we are sending a message that it is ex-tremely bothersome and debilitating. It’s really pathologizing a natural bodily function.”

Lisa Marshall is a freelance writer in Estes Park, CO. Reach her at LisaAnnMarshall.com.

16 May 2009

Pregnancy, Childrenand Chiropractic Care

“Chiropractic care during pregnancy? Are you crazy?” These are common responses when chiropractic care

is suggested for an expectant mother. The fact is getting her spine checked is one of the best things a pregnant woman can do, not only for herself, but also for the baby. The reasons are numerous but the most significant is the increase of weight. As the majority of weight gain is in the abdominal area, the center of gravity shifts forward, exaggerating the natural curves of the spine. This affects nerves, muscles, and the mobility of joints. Pregnant women generally have low back pain because as the hips expand laterally to help stabilize the body, there is more pressure on the sacro-iliac joints. This causes hip pain. Additionally, the changing hormones affect the liga-ments, cartilage, and bone, which also cause discomfort. These changes in the spin not only affect the mother, they also affect the developing baby. An unbalanced pelvis decreases room in the uterus, restricts the baby’s positions, and affects his/her developing spine and cranium. This may also prevent him/her from getting into the correct position for birth, which can lead to longer, more painful labor, and unfortunately increase the probability of c-sections. Cervical Specific Care helps balance the pelvis, stabi-lize the spine, helps with discomfort and pain, and is safe throughout all phases of pregnancy. Also, according to The

Effects of Chiropractic Treat-ment on Pregnancy & Labor: a comprehensive study by Dr. J. Fallon, chiropractic care during pregnancy significantly decreas-es the length of time a woman is in labor First- time mothers average 24% shorter labor and those who have already given birth average 39% shorter labor time. When you are making an appointment with a pediatri-cian for your child, consider making an appointment for a check-up with a chiropractor as well. There are huge mis-conceptions about chiropractic. One is that it is only for adults, another is that it is for musculoskeletal problems only, such as neck and back pain. What many people don’t know is that chiropractic is really about removing nerve interfer-ence caused by the spine being misaligned and by doing so, allowing the body to heal and increase its function. One of the first causes of spinal misalignment occurs dur-ing birth. Even so-called “natural” birthing methods can stress a developing spine and cause irritation to the nervous system. Later on, learning to walk, riding (and falling off) a bike, and other normal childhood activities continue to put pressure on the spine. During these periods of growth a child needs to be checked by a chiropractor for subluxations (spinal misalign-ments). If the subluxations are not fixed and proper spinal motion restored, more spinal problems will occur later in life. Children who get chiropractic adjustments are healthier and avoid many of the health complaints seen later in adults. Although chiropractic is not a ‘cure’ for anything, some of the conditions chiropractic has been shown to help with are:

• Earinfections• Colic• Bedwetting• Scoliosis• Breathingproblems• Difficultiesbreastfeeding• ADHD• Autism,BehavioralandLearningdisorders

Child adjustments are tailored to an infant’s/child’s spine. Most parents report that their children like their ad-justments and seem healthier than other children. Also, kids do not need to be seen as often and recuperate from illness or traumas more quickly than adults.

Dr. Burcon, DC recently completed a continuing education course which included issues like turning a breech baby, stopping prema-ture labor and adjusting for Mom’s sciatica, back pain and hemor-rhoids. Children’s adjustments included colic, ear infections, bed wetting, scoliosis, autism, Torticollis, sports injuries, allergies, asthma and headaches. Burcon Chiropractic is located at 3501 Lake East-brook Blvd., Ste. 252 in Grand Rapids. Call 616-575-9990 or visit BurconChiropractic.com. See ad page 27.

Dr. Michael Burcon, DC


inspiration

Spring is a perfect time to cleanse, let go and give ourselves a much-needed rest—physically, mentally

and emotionally. As a naturopathic doctor, I daily see how toxic overload on all these levels contributes to people’s health issues. Emotionally, detoxification helps us uncover and express hidden frustra-tions, grief, fear, and anger, and replace them with forgiveness, love, joy and hope. Physically, taking a break from environmental toxins in our food can leave us feeling energized, renewed and protected from disease. I recommend getting back to ba-sics. Here are 10 simple things anyone can do at home to start saying goodbye to toxins.

Wake-Up Drink. First thing upon waking, on an empty stomach, drink a cup of hot

filtered or spring water with the juice from half of one lemon and two pinches of cayenne pepper. Lemon stimulates digestion; cayenne enhances circulation and blood flow.

Contrast Shower. Follow every hot shower with a 60-second cold rinse. The contrast stimu-

lates circulation, the immune system and our ability to expel toxins through the skin. As pores tighten, we feel in-vigorated and ready for the day.

Shake It Up. Jump on a tram-poline for 3 to 5 minutes. This stimulates the whole body,

particularly the lymph drainage system. This is helpful for those prone to aller-gies or cysts.

Fever Baths. Take a warm bath in the evening and add a cup of

Epsom salts to soothe, relax and detox. Increase benefits by drinking 2 or 3

Spring Clean Your Lifeby tom Francescott

cups of hot tea while bathing, to work up a sweat. Try this recipe: Simmer some fresh ginger slices in water, tossing in one tablespoon of dried yarrow flowers. Steep for 15 minutes, strain and drink. Yarrow and ginger have been shown to stimulate sweating, which helps the body release toxins.

Take a News Break. Observe a news fast for 3 to 7 days to limit toxic thoughts, which

can undermine health. Also avoid emotionally disturbing information from the Internet, magazines, movies, newspapers, radio and television. Replacing these stressful exposures with relaxing activities rests mind and body.

Spend Time in Nature. Take a break from routine by venturing out to a favorite spot in nature.

Bring a journal and start listening to your body; record what it is telling you. Surrounding yourself with nature’s negative ions (which act positively on mood) will help you de-stress and encourage the body’s inherent wisdom to come forward.

Drink Detox Tea. For at least one week, try limiting all bever-ages to just water and herbal

teas. This eases stress on the kidneys, helps flush retained fluids in cells and helps purify the blood and liver. I suggest drinking 6 to 8 cups a day of this special tea to crowd out less healthy beverages, reduce appetite, maintain a state of fullness and cleanse liver and kidneys. In a quart of water, combine 2 tablespoons of each of the following and gently simmer the tea: burdock root, yellow dock root, dandelion leaf and root, licorice root,

fennel and ginger. Multiply the recipe proportionately to make larger batches. Drink it throughout the day.

Change Food Routines. Many unknowingly consume foods we have allergic reactions to

or that increase toxin levels, causing symptoms like arthritis, headaches, water retention and fatigue. Common culprits are gluten, dairy, eggs, soy, corn and sugar. I suggest taking a break from all of these foods, or at least one that is predominant in your diet. Often, if we simply eliminate foods that contain gluten (wheat, oats, rye, barley and spelt) and replace them with brown rice, millet or quinoa products, we can change eating habits while increasing variety.

Detox Dinner. For seven nights, prepare a simple meal of liver-detoxifying steamed vegetables,

like carrots, broccoli, artichokes, beets and onions, along with a four-ounce portion of protein, simply prepared with a bit of olive oil. Consider wild fish, organic lean meats or lentils for primary protein sources.

Clean Up Surroundings. Uncluttering and organizing our home and work environ-

ments helps clear out stagnant energy and frees us physically and emotion-ally. Let go of unused papers, clothes and boxes. This creates space and welcomes new energy. Just as we tune up our cars, we must also regularly cleanse our bodies. As we cleanse our bodies, we cleanse our environment.

Tom Francescott is a naturopathic doctor, teacher, lecturer and founder and director of Rhinebeck Cooperative Health Center, in Rhinebeck, New York, where he specializes in science-based detoxification. He is also founder of the natural pharmacy, Dr. Tom’s Tonics. Visit DrFrancescott.com. Join him at Omega’s “Detox & Change Your Life: Transforming Obstacles & Inspiring Health & Wellness” workshops, May 3-8 or 3-10. To register, visit eomega.org or call 800-944-1001.

18 May 2009

consciouseating

by kimberly lord stewart

When it’s a special day for someone in our family—Mother’s Day, Father’s Day or

a birthday—the rest of us like to get up early and prepare breakfast. After a few tense moments attempting to stay quiet while banging around in the kitchen, we all parade upstairs. The honoree graciously pretends to be asleep, stifling a giggle while we enter the bedroom with a tray of treats and a handful of butter-stained greeting cards. Some-times, school schedules and work demands cut short our tasty wake-

up calls, but the recipient always starts the day feeling loved and

appreciated. If you’re daunted by the thought of anything trickier than cold cereal, relax. Breakfast in bed doesn’t

have to be a production that requires you to wake before sunrise. With a little planning, you can do most of the preparation the night before, with excel-

lent results (the flavor of a finely diced fruit salad, for

example, actually improves when it sits overnight). By using the freshest ingredi-ents available, you get maximum flavor and effect—witness an ordinary omelet turned elegant when paired with slen-der asparagus spears and Brie cheese.

Simple touches can spruce up the tray. Sprigs of fresh herbs or flowers add a finished look or, for a memorable centerpiece, tape bamboo skewers or chopsticks to the backs of family photos and place in a vase. Although no study has proved it, china plates and stem-ware do make food taste better.

Omelet PrimaveraServes 2

Hint: Accompany with a glass of champagne or sparkling cider.

¼ cup water6 ounces asparagus1 tablespoon butter4 eggs2 tablespoons nonfat milk or water¼ pound Brie cheese (rind removed), cut into piecesSalt and pepper1 tablespoon fresh dill or chives, chopped

1. In a nonstick skillet, heat water until boiling and blanch asparagus until barely tender, 2 to 4 minutes. Drain and set aside. (This step may be done ahead.)

2. In the same nonstick skillet, heat ½ tablespoon butter over medium-low heat. In a small bowl, whisk eggs and milk or water. Pour half the eggs into the skillet. Rotate the pan to cover the bottom evenly with eggs. When eggs are half set, add half the asparagus and cheese. Season with salt and pepper and sprinkle with half the herbs. Fold eggs over the asparagus and cheese and slide onto a serving plate. Keep warm.

3. Repeat step two with remaining ingredients to make a second omelet, and serve.

Good Morning

mother’s day offers the perfect excuse to put a little extra effort into breakfast. Whip up breakfast in bed for mom (or your sweetie) with these indulgent, yet easy, recipes.

Mommm


Festive Fruit SaladMakes 2½ cups / Use any combination of fruit.

Hint: Finely dicing the fruit allows for the sauce to coat each tidbit.

¼ cup lime juice1 short tablespoon sugar¼ teaspoon vanilla1-2 cups skinned, seeded and diced papaya1 mango, skinned, seeded and diced½ cup diced pineapple, fresh or canned1 kiwi, skinned and diced1 cup diced strawberries1 starfruit, thinly sliced, for garnish

1. In a medium bowl, mix lime juice, sugar and vanilla until sugar dissolves. Add diced fruit and stir gently.

2. Chill overnight, if desired.

3. Serve in individual dishes, garnished with star fruit.

Apple-Butter Raised WafflesServes 8 / A lighter adaptation of the famous recipe from Fannie Farmer’s original cookbook of the 1800s.

Hint: To simplify your morning, make the batter the night before. Top waffles with warm applesauce or maple syrup.

½ cup warm water (100-115°)2¼ teaspoons (1 packet) dry yeast (regular, not rapid-rise)2 cups warm low-fat milk (100-115°)¼ cup canola oil¼ cup apple butter½ teaspoon salt1 teaspoon honey1 cup organic all-purpose flour1 cup whole-wheat pastry flour2 eggs¼ teaspoon baking sodaCanola oil for waffle iron

1. Pour warm water into a large mixing bowl and sprinkle with yeast. Allow to dissolve for about 10 minutes.

2. Add warm milk, oil, apple butter, salt, honey and flours to yeast mixture. Blend with a whisk or a hand-held mixer until lumps are gone. Cover with plastic wrap and allow to rise in the refrigerator overnight.

3. In the morning, beat in eggs and baking soda. Batter will be thin.

4. Pour ½ to ¾ cup batter into a preheated, oiled waffle iron. Bake until crisp and golden brown. Repeat with remaining batter.

Breakfast PaniniServes 2 / A nontraditional breakfast treat.

Hint: Use crusty artisan bread for a hearty sandwich that holds up in the waffle iron.

4 slices prosciutto (about 1 ounce)4 slices fresh tomato4 slices fontina cheese (about 3 ounces)4 thick slices whole grain breadSalt and pepperHerbes de ProvenceOlive oil

1. Preheat a waffle iron. Place pro-sciutto, tomato and cheese on two bread slices. Add salt and pepper to taste and sprinkle with herbes de Provence. Top with remaining bread.

2. Brush waffle iron liberally with olive oil and cook sandwiches until brown, 8 to 10 minutes.

20 May 2009

A recent research study done by a medical laboratory in Chicago, Illinois under the direction of Dr. Quigg, examined the amount of mercury in fecal samples

compared to the number of dental amalgam fillings each participant had. The study included more than 2500 participants who were surveyed for the following information: did they have any dental amalgam fillings; if so how many, and had they ever had any dental amalgam fillings in the past, which were removed.

Fecal samples were then taken and Doctor’s Data determined how much mercury was present in the samples. They found that the more dental amalgam fillings

present in the participants’ mouth; the more mercury was present in each sample. Utilizing the U.S. estimates of 210 million people with dental amal-gams, from the American Den-tal Association, and based on their own re-search, Doctor’s Data estimates that 3.4 tons of dental amalgam derived mercury is released into the sewer and septic systems per year. Next time you need to make a decision regarding the material your dentist uses to restore your teeth, consider the

potential impact on the environ-ment when making that choice.

Dr. Kevin Flood, DDS owns the Dental Health & Wellness Center, 4990 Cascade Road SE, Grand Rapids, MI., FloodTheDentist.com. 616-974-4990.

Graph Courtesy of Doctor’s Data

Are Your DentalFillings ToxicTo The Environment?By Dr. Kevin Flood, DDS


High heels, lively stepping across the presidential seal embedded in the carpet of the Oval Office, have

been the subject of prime-time television dramas such as Commander in Chief, star-ring Gina Davis, and 24, featuring Cherry Jones as President Allison Taylor. Although life didn’t imitate art on January 20, half of the world’s popu-lation inherited a new dream when the two-year campaign trail to the White House gave New York Senator Hillary Clinton an opportunity to showcase her political talents. “Hillary left us with an indelible image, a knowing that anything is possible and a green light to put our courage and commitment to use in leading the way on issues that we passionately believe in,” says Joellen Raderstorf, one of four Mothers Acting Up founders.

Raderstorf and three friends gathered around her kitchen table in 2002 to share their passion for making a differ-ence in the lives of the world’s children. “We had just returned from Washington, D.C., where our state senator informed us that, due to a tax cut, we would not have funding for our community pro-grams,” says Raderstorf. The four mothers realized they

needed to gather women like themselves to advocate on be-half of children. “It was clear to us,” explains Raderstorf, “that we needed many more voices to speak out for the well-being of our global family.” Within weeks Mothers Acting Up, an Internet-based, nonprofit organization, was born.

Understanding that change will not occur without their courage, commitment and activism continues to inspire the organized effort that now affords mothers in 49 states and 23 countries a say in corporate and public policies that affect the world our children will inherit. “We felt in our hearts

that women must unite to mobilize their political strength, in order to ensure the health, education and safety of every child, not just a privileged few,” remarks Raderstorf. “In a global economy, all children’s well-being is connected.” Members point out that children around the world breathe the same air, eat fish from the same ocean and live as neigh-bors. “It’s time,” she says, “to measure the true impact of our political and personal choices by how they affect children everywhere.”

Acting Now for Future GenerationsJean Shinoda Bolen, a psychiatrist and author of The Millionth Circle and Urgent Message from Mother: Gather the Wom-en, Save the World, shares Raderstorf’s concern about the need for women to speak up and take action. “The dormant power of women together is the untapped resource needed by humanity and the

planet,” emphasizes the Jungian analyst. “Every woman’s voice is needed, particularly those interested in keeping the premises safe for all, as well as those concerned for chil-dren’s needs and development.” Bolen’s experience affirms that the qualifications to

Pulling Together to Secure Harmony on Earthby linda sechrist

Women as Leaders

Since 2005, the power of media images has been stretching our collective imagination and changing the perception of what is possible for young girls and women who dream of using their leadership skills to make our world a better place to live.

Jean Shinoda Bolen

Joellen Raderstorf

“The future of the planetdepends on women.”

~ Kofi Annan, Nobel Peace Prize Laureate

22 May 2009

forward change come naturally to women. These include the ability to manage resources, resolve conflicts, work collab-oratively, ask questions, listen and learn from the experience of others, and act with compassion for the benefit of all, including generations to come. In the eyes of Linda Tarr-Whelan, author of Women Lead the Way: Your Guide to Stepping Up to Leadership and Changing the World, women like those in Mothers Acting Up, who organize on the grassroots level in their communi-ties and beyond, are change agents for a better future. She points to research conducted by Rutgers University’s Center for American Women and Politics, which demonstrates the benefits of empowering women in leadership capacities. “Women make a decided differ-ence when they come to constitute 30 percent of a board of directors, executive management, political body or any organization,” notes Tarr-Whelan, a former ambassador and U.S. representative to the United Nations’ Commission on the Status of Women during the Clinton adminis-

tration. “Only then does the dialogue change; only then do women’s voices get heard and their ideas acted upon. Until we reach this tipping point, all of us have good reason to be concerned about the missing priorities, qualities, talents and experience that women can contribute.”

Accomplishments Despite Uneven OddsExamples abound of what women’s representation in elected office can achieve. In the United States, women-friendly policies have been written into national legislation ever since they began winning congressional seats, tackling such issues as violence against women, child support, welfare, equal wages and unemployment benefits. Yet, today, women account for only 17 percent of Con-gress’ 535 seats. During the last decade, our country has lost ground in women’s political representation, plummeting from 47th in the world to 71st, behind Iraq (33rd), the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (57th) and Sudan (65th). Rwanda recently made global history when it became the first nation electing more women than men to parliament. The staff and board of directors of Green America (formerly Co-Op America), a nonprofit organization deploy-ing the power of the marketplace to solve social and envi-ronmental problems, is now beyond the 30 percent tipping point. Women comprise 70 percent of its board of directors. Executive Director Alisa Gravitz has been nurturing her activism and leadership talents since collaborating with her 8th-grade classmates to organize a recycling center and envi-ronmental education classes in the 1970s. “I realized early on that when you work together, you can do anything,” quips Gravitz.

Values Women Bring to the TableWorking together collaboratively is one of the distinguishing qualities that women bring to the workplace. “Women encour-age others to be involved in the decision-making process and view consensus as an important element in reaching a decision,”

observes Gravitz. Her list of other proven traits that women bring to the arena of green activism includes: a holistic and integrative approach to problem solving; compassion, that translates into a sincere interest in people; and a more encompassing view

of stakeholders’ return on investment. “Women ask questions not just because they want to know the story of the human being behind the invest-ment,” advises Gravitz, “but, because they care about more than the return on the dollar.” “Women are socialized to be listeners and view things relationally,”

adds Dr. Linda Stillman, a specialist in cultural communi-cation, interpersonal relations and gender issues. She also served as the permanent UN Nongovernmental Organization (NGO) representative for Soroptimist International, a vol-unteer international women’s organization for international women’s issues.

Stillman observes that women tend to approach leadership through their relationships. “Women converse to build connections and seek multiple options before reaching decisions or taking ac-tion,” she explains. This behavior reflects a more democratic and cautious approach to doing business, as recently highlighted

in a Washington Post article on the banking industry’s missing gender balance. It led: “The first rumblings of a gender revo-lution are underway in an industry long controlled by men.”

Cultivating Long-term PerspectiveIn an organization like Holistic Moms Network (HMN), founded by a handful of mothers who yearned for the support and friendship of others parenting outside the mainstream, gender balance might be unexpected. Yet, according to founder Nancy Massotto, the nonprofit’s 120 chapters across the United States and Canada counts many supportive fathers as members. Massotto, who jokes that her “Type A” personality helped her master the mountains of work required to take HMN from an Essex County, New Jersey network to a non-profit organization crisscrossing North America, remarks, “I don’t easily shy away from challenges; I am a holistic mom, who birthed my children at home, breastfed and raised them on organic food. Thus, this work is almost a calling.”

Women are able to effect a difference in how events unfold when they comprise 30 percent

of any organization—that’s the tipping point.

Linda Tarr-Whelan

Dr. Linda Stillman

Alisa Gravitz


Massotto views her background in research organizations, along with her doctorate in political science and teaching experience at several universities, as preparation for organiz-ing HMN. An educator who has always worked on behalf of women, Massotto observes that, even though all women are not the same, the majority generally cultivates a long-term perspective regarding the impact of their choices.

She remarks, “I see selflessness, particularly by mothers who give of themselves, without wanting anything in return other than the satisfac-tion of doing something that has a positive impact.” Connecting with others and building consensus, as well as practicing steward-ship and service over self-interest, are behaviors common to women’s egalitarian approach to leadership. These strengths are what Mary Evelyn Tucker believes make women ideal candidates for leading the way in community development and caring for the environment.

“Women have a deep spiritual sensibility, a humility that allows them to sense that they are a part of nature and not apart from it,” says Tucker, co-founder of the Forum on Religion and Ecology. “This experiential connection creates the link between religion and ecology.” Activist stories featured in Renewal, a documentary film that highlights several grass-roots environmental initiatives led by women, supports this. Tucker’s international, multi-religious project explores religious

worldviews, texts and ethics in order to broaden understanding of human- Earth relations. Enlightened leaders agree that women’s strengths, among them relationship building, story sharing and community organizing, are urgently needed in today’s world.

Nancy Massotto

Mary Evelyn Tucker

Organizations Actively Redefining LeadershipGreen America – CoopAmerica.orgHolistic Moms Network – HolisticMoms.orgJean Shinoda Bolen – JeanBolen.comLinda Tarr-Whelan – Tarr-WhelanAssociates.com Mothers Acting Up – MothersActingUp.orgThe Renewal Project – RenewalProject.netSophia 2010 – Sophia2010.orgSoroptimist International – SoroptimistInternational.orgDr. Linda Stillman – Dr-Stillman.com/page4.htmlMargaret Wheatley – MargaretWheatley.comForum on Religion and Ecology – ReligionAndEcology.org

24 May 2009

Margaret Wheatley, author of Turning to One Another, believes that when we begin to truly listen to each other and talk about things

that matter to us, the world begins to change. “There is no power greater than a community discovering what it cares about,” asserts Wheatley, whose experience confirms that “Change only comes when everyday individu-

Margaret Wheatley

Dates & Locations: Black Mountain, NC April 9-13, and August 30-Sept 5, Conway NH, June 11-14 & Woodstock, NY June 18-21.The Music: At night there are concerts with record-ing artists who carry a message of love, justice & forgivenessThe Instructions: Workshops: Solar, wind, organic gardening, holistic health, living-on-less, earth & wilderness skills, finding your mission in life, creat-ing loving unions, staying awake in a sleeping world, Hopi & Mayan prophecies, drumming circles, etc! Also we host a Native American “Elder-in-Residence.”Cost: $145 for weekend gatherings / $275 for August 7-day gathering. Meals, camp-ing, cabins and lodge rooms available.

Life-changing Vacations in Beautiful Retreat Settings!

Getting Ready for the Changes

The Gathering of the Peacemakers

Limited to 150! Reserve early! Your hosts: Julia & Robert Roskind, authors of Rasta Heart and 2012: The Transformation from the Love of Power to the Power of Love

www.onelovepress.com • (828) 295-4610 • [email protected]

Black Mountain, NC • Conway, NH • Woodstock, NY

Days of Conscious Instruction Nights of Conscious Music

als gather in small groups, notice what they care about and then, take those first steps to change the situation.”

In 2000, at the start of a week long conference to review progress made since the Fourth World Con-ference on Women, in Beijing in 1995, former UN Secretary-Gen-eral Kofi Annan boldly declared, “The future of the planet depends on women.” Another grassroots group of women are among those

now taking the first steps on the journey to a peaceful, prosperous and sustainable future for all. They are organizing Sophia 2010, a women’s world conference convening in Sofia, Bulgaria, in 2010. The event will highlight for the world successful approaches to achiev-ing global goals of improving social conditions, preserving nature and celebrating universal spirituality. This groundbreaking international forum is the brainchild of women confident in the fact that a small group of thoughtful people, looking to advance social development, gender equal-ity and wisdom can lead the way to change, through courage, commitment and activism.

Writer Linda Sechrist recently returned from the 53rd session of The Com-mission on the Status of Women, the principal global policy-making body of the United Nations Economic and Social Council.

Want a beautiful, healthy, “green” home?

Visit Eden Environments, your personal green experts.

Mon-Thu 10:00—7:00, Fri-Sat 10:00-5:00 5747 28th St. SE 616-956-5000 www.EdenEnvironments.com


Does Your Food Need a Passport?by Kyle Hass

Where is your food from? How well traveled is your apple or onion? Most fresh fruits and vegetables

produced in the U.S. are shipped from California, Flori-da and Washington. Fruits and vegetables shipped from distant states and countries can spend as many as seven to 14 days in transit before they arrive in the super-market. In order to get exceptional taste and freshness, your food should be purchased locally. Buying locally also helps strengthen the local economy, support fam-ily farms and protect the environment. Knowing where your food comes from and how it is raised or grown allows you to choose safe food from farmers who avoid or reduce their use of chemicals, pesticides, hormones,

antibiotics or genetically modified seed in their opera-tions. There’s never been a more critical time than now to support your farming neighbors. With each local food purchase, you ensure that more of your money spent on food goes to the farmer. Local food doesn’t have to travel far, which reduces carbon dioxide emissions and packing materials. Buying local food also helps to make farming more profitable and selling farmland for devel-opment less attractive. This summer why not make it a goal to purchase all your fruits and vegetables from one of these local farm-ers markets?

Byron Center Farmers MarketBehind Walgreens8350 Byron Center AveByron Center, Michigan May - OctoberSaturday, 8am-1pm

Fremont Farmers MarketMain Street parking lotFremont, Michigan August - OctoberSaturday, 7:30am-1pmWIC Coupons

Grand Haven Farmers MarketChinook PierHarbor Drive and 1st Street Grand Haven, Michigan June - OctoberWednesday and Saturday 8am-12pm

Grand Rapids Fulton StreetFarmers Market 1147 East Fulton StreetGrand Rapids, Michigan

April - December Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday8am-4pm

Greenville Farmers MarketVeterans ParkGreenville, Michigan July - OctoberTuesday and Friday 7:30am-1pm

Holland Farmers MarketHolland Civic CenterHolland, Michigan June - OctoberWednesday and Saturday 8am-5pmWIC Coupons

Ionia Farmers MarketCorner of Adams and State StreetsIonia, Michigan May - OctoberMonday, Wednesday and Saturday8am-1pm

Muskegon Farmers Market700 Yuba StreetMuskegon, Michigan May - DecemberTuesday, Thursday and Saturday8am-4pm

Pentwater Farmers Market Lawn of The Village GreenPentwater, Michigan June - SeptemberMonday, 4-7pmThursday, 10am-2pm

Rockford Farmers MarketSouth Squires parking lot of Main StreetRockford, Michigan June-OctoberSaturday, 8am-1pm

Here is a list of some local farmers markets across West Michigan.

Together, if we all make a commitment to patron our local farmers markets we can and will make a difference in our Mich-igan economy. To find more information on these and other farmers markets in your area, visit FarmersMarkets.msu.edu.

26 May 2009

fitbody

Ten million Americans suffer with osteoporosis and another 34 million have low bone mass and

high risk for osteoporosis, according to the National Osteoporosis Foundation. For anyone who has been diagnosed with osteoporosis or osteopenia (low bone density for our age, but not low enough be a risk factor for fracture), it is important to know that most likely, the bones’ ability to develop has not been affected. We have simply stopped “loading” them. The good news is that it’s unlikely that bone density is low throughout our body, and we can begin simple weight-

bearing exercises at any time. This signals the bone to start growing. Ribs, wrists, hips and the spine are the most common places prone to bone loss. The main reason is simply underuse. Contemporary habits in our culture often don’t load these joints to their fullest potential. Let’s take hips as an example of a potential trouble zone. Hips are de-signed to rotate and have a wide range of motion. If we sit more than six hours a day, they don’t get much movement. This sends our body the message that it doesn’t have to maintain as much density as if the hips were moving in

all the patterns in which they were designed to move. Even if we have been exercising regularly, but are still troubled by low bone density, applying the following tips will help.

Find new ways and different directions to move.Choose exercises that work the body in different directions than usual. If most workouts consist of walking, try a changeup. Getting off a treadmill is one way to work new muscles. Dance classes introduce new steps that challenge joints in novel ways. Just walking side-ways for one minute in each direction each day challenges hip muscles.

Know the difference between using weights and weight-bearing exercise.Even some exercise professionals confuse these concepts. While using weights can be part of any exercise program, it is weight-bearing exercise that delivers healthier bones. Using weights can mean any type of resistance exercise—from weight machines, circuit equipment and hand-held weights to body resistance exer-cise, like pushups or yogic arm- balance poses. Because the skeleton’s job is to bear the entire weight of the body, lifting three-, five-, or even 20-pound weights is not as beneficial to bone health as being naturally strong enough to carry your own body mass. Weight-bearing specifically refers to how much body weight we are hold-ing up while exercising. Thus, walking

Boning UpExercise Helps Maintain and Restore Bone Density

by katy santiago

You Deserve to be Healthy!Your Partners in Wellness. We Can Help With...

Weight Loss Proper Nutrition Stress Reduction Healthy Aging

www.lswellnesscenter.com www.parkhurstchiropractic.com372 Garden Avenue ~ Holland 616.392.9500 364 Garden Avenue ~ Holland


is more weight-bearing than bicycling, while swimming is the least weight-bearing, because water’s natural buoy-ancy does most of the work.

Favor activities that get us on our feet to load up bones.Ditch the exercise bike and go for a walk. Walk the golf course instead of getting a cart. If work requires sitting, take standing breaks, a nice change during long phone calls. Why not create a standing work center for a home or office computer? A good way to test our weight-bearing strength is see how long we can stand to stand. If we are looking for a chair by the 20-min-ute mark, our muscle mass is insufficient to hold up our body. Improve gradually by decreasing sitting time by 10 percent to start. For those who watch television two hours at a stretch, try getting up during com-mercials and standing on one leg at a time.

Think heel-toe to heal too.It’s wise to opt for flats or negative-heeled footwear. Even one-inch high heels and cushioned sports shoes dampen the vibrations that natural-ly build bone density

in the hips and spine. How we walk also can signal prob-lems that may be contributing to bone loss. Tight calf muscles, for example, change how a person’s heels strike the ground while walking; this decreases the vibrations moving up the leg, meant to keep the bones of the hip joints and femurs strong.

Design a truly well-balanced program.The most significant health risk for anyone with low bone density is the risk of a fracture. Falling is a common cause of fractures, so exercises that improve balance should top the list.

Balance or yoga classes are available at many community fitness cen-

ters as a ready-made solution to decreasing risks

of a spill.

Katy Santiago, a biomechanics ex-pert, has a master’s of science degree

in kinesiology and is director of the

Restorative Exercise Institute in Ventura,

CA. Her Restorative Exercise DVD for Healthy Bones is available at Restor-ativeExercise.com.

Rebecca Urick231-852-0849To Order:www.youngliving.org/[email protected]

smilinglotusyoga.com

natural born creative sou

l

Providing a healthy

alternative for baby essentials and childhood

playthings.

963 Cherry St., Grand Rapids, Michigan 49506 616.233.4008 hopscotchstore.com

You can now shop Hop Scotch

on-line, or just keep up to date with workshops

and specials!

28 May 2009

Start with PreventionDon’t wait until fleas make their appearance before acting. Taking preventative steps before flea season starts will help your dog or cat repel any they happen to pick up and mini-mize the chance of an infestation.

dietThe healthier and stronger your companion is, the less he will be affected by fleas. A primary way to keep in peak condi-tion is providing a quality diet of whole, natural ingredients, free of hormones and pesticides. Try a raw frozen or premium canned food.

supplementsFlea-repelling supplements are generally good for overall health, as well. Salmon or flaxseed oils are full of essential fatty acids that promote healthy hair and skin. When intro-ducing any supplement to an animal’s diet, it’s good to first consult with a holistic veterinarian. Adding a clove of fresh grated garlic to a dog’s food each day helps build his immunity, while generating an odor fleas find unattractive. Note that many vets don’t recommend feed-ing garlic to cats, because it can sometimes damage their red blood cells and cause anemia. Try brewer’s yeast instead; it acts as flea repellent and is a good source of vitamin B1.

GroomingFrequently brushing your dog or cat removes the dead hair, mats and tangles that provide a perfect hiding place for fleas. Also invest in a flea comb, a fine-toothed grooming tool designed to snag adult fleas. Pay special attention to areas where fleas can congregate: under the legs, around the head and tail and on the belly area.

BathingRegular bathing helps keep fleas off your animal. Use a gentle shampoo with natural ingredients that won’t dry out or irritate skin; aloe and oatmeal is an excellent choice. Soap well, especially in areas where fleas typically collect, and try to leave the lather on for 10 to 15 minutes, to drown existing fleas. Rinse thoroughly. With dogs, product selections include natural sham-poos, conditioners and rinses that contain flea-repelling essential oils such as lavender, rosemary, tea tree, mint, neem and citrus. These oils soothe and refresh skin and cut through odor and grease without drying the coat. Remember not to use essential oils on cats, as they are toxic to felines.

Control MeasuresIf you already have a serious flea problem, you’ll need to take additional measures. Because fleas reproduce

naturalpet

up to scratch remedies

by ann Brightman

They might be tiny, but they’re tough, hardy and persistent. If you share your life with a dog or cat, fleas are often a fact of life during warm weather months, which can be year-round in some climates. Implementing a holistically designed prevention and control program is the way to go. These seven suggestions will help you get through, flea-free.


prolifically and rapidly, you need to break their life cycle to get rid of them. While direct flea-repelling product applica-tions can help, they don’t actually kill the fleas, eggs or lar-vae. So, in addition to looking after your animal’s hygiene and health, you also need to tackle his immediate environment.

topicalsFor dogs with fleas, topical applications of essential oils can prove an effective alternative to traditional chemicals. Tea tree oil is especially good and will kill fleas. Keep in mind that essential oils are strong and should be used sparingly; it’s best to dilute them with water. Consult with a professional aromatherapist for more detailed advice. Again, do not use these oils on cats. Use aromatic hydrosols, instead. Herbal flea powders and collars are another alternative—be sure to get a natural product.

inside the HouseThe next step is to go on a major cleaning spree. Thoroughly vacuum all carpets and upholstery, taking care to penetrate dark corners and crevices and along baseboards; dispose of the vacuum bag promptly. Launder anything washable in hot water, such as cushion covers, curtains or bedspreads; other-wise, use a green dry cleaner. Frequently wash the animal’s bedding and regularly clean all surfaces he lies on. To help keep fleas from returning to the bedding, try sprinkling cedar shavings or lavender seeds in and around it. You can also carefully sprinkle natural, unprocessed diatomaceous earth on carpets, along walls, in corner and cracks in the floor, even under sturdy upholstery. It will inter-rupt the fleas’ interior functions and kill them. Helpful, sodi-um-based flea-killing products act as a dessicant and work to break the life cycle by drying out flea eggs and larvae.

outside the HouseIn warm weather, fleas can live happily in the backyard,

ready to jump on your animal companion as soon as he walks past. Clear the area of any piles of dead leaves, brush or other yard and garden debris where fleas like to hide. Also, keep dog houses or cat enclosures clean and dry. Consider buying beneficial nema-todes, naturally occurring microscopic worms that kill fleas by infesting their larvae. Steinernema (Sc or Sf) varieties are the best. Nematodes usually are available in a pellet or powdered form; just mix them with water and spread them over the area you wish to treat, using a watering can or sprayer. In many regions, it’s still early in the year to be thinking about fleas. But, the sooner you put a pre-vention program in place, the better your companion will cope and the easier it will be to keep the situation under control.

Spring is nature’s way of saying, “Let’s party!”

- Robin Williams

30 May 2009

Local Charity Trains Workers, Tackles E-waste

by Maryann Lawrence

Three years ago, Goodwill Association of Michigan and Dell introduced RECONNECT Michigan, a comprehen-

sive computer recovery, reuse and environmentally responsi-ble recycling opportunity for Michigan consumers. The program offers drop-off recycling and reuse options for unwanted computers

at no charge to consumers, and gives them the opportunity to support a local charity. Each of the ten Goodwill charities across Michigan is partici-pating in the program, which is funded by Dell. To date, 3 million pounds of individually donated electronics are broken down per year. Goodwill Industries began in 1902 in Boston, but it wasn’t until 1931 that it made its way to Michigan, when Oak Park Methodist Church minister John Martin sought assistance for the area through the establishment of an agency serving the needs of the disabled. Locally, community leaders and United Way officials formed Goodwill Industries of Greater Grand Rapids in 1966 to serve participants in Kent County. Goodwill Industries of Mid-Michigan and throughout the U.S. has made a commitment, within the scope of the orga-nization’s original intent of servicing the needs of the disad-vantaged and those with disabilities, to address the environ-mental problem of overflowing landfills. Goodwill Industries has also established a taskforce, represented by individuals at more than 24 local Goodwill facilities, to examine sustainable business models for com-puter recycling and reuse, market trends for used systems and parts, related training and career opportunities for Good-will program participants and necessary e-waste advocacy efforts Goodwill is a also partner on E-bay’s Rethink Initia-tive, an effort that brings together industry, government and

environmental organizations to offer a fresh perspective and new answers to the challenge of e-waste. But the organization has always been about recycling. When the program originally began in Boston, it was de-cided that funding would be raised by recycling household

good and reselling them. So, Goodwill is really one of the oldest recyclers in the U.S. To date, the organization says it has diverted 9.4 million pounds of waste from landfills. Goodwill Indus-tries also has an online auction site, ShopGood-will.com, which is second only to EBay. Recycling has always been the vehicle by which Goodwill Industries has survived year after year, but its mission remains always in the fore-front of the organization’s work. Lives that other-wise would remain jobless have an opportunity to prosper under its umbrella of programs. Goodwill Industries is North America’s leading nonprofit

provider of education, training and career services for people with disadvantages, such as welfare dependency, homeless-ness and lack of education or work experience, as well as those with physical, mental and emotional disabilities. The organization reports that 70 percent of those with disabilities are unemployed. The organization also operates a prisoner “reentry” training program, including teaching computer skills and programs. Last year alone, Goodwill provided employment and training services to more than 1.1 million individuals. Within the span of 40 years, Goodwill Industries of Greater Grand Rapids has developed a variety of techniques and services to help people with employment barriers realize their potential for greater satisfaction. By putting the jobless to work, Goodwill is also helping businesses fill gaps caused by labor shortages, time constraints and limited space or

equipment. Goodwill trains and employs contract workers to fill outsourced needs for document management, assembly, mailing and custodial work. Browse the Goodwill Industries of Greater Grand Rapids website to learn more about the many services, and discover opportunities that can help support Goodwill.

Learn more about these programs at Good-willgr.org, Goodwill.org, ShopGoodwill.com and ReconnectPartnership.com. Maryann Lawrence is a freelance writer who lives with her family in Gregory, MI.

recycling

products

and lives


Ina May Gaskin is the author of Spiritual Midwifery and Ina May’s Guide to Childbirth, developer of

the Gaskin maneuver for shoulder birth complications, and founder of The Farm Midwifery Center, in Tennes-see. Since 1971, she has influenced and inspired women around the world with her views on natural childbirth.

Q. You have been called the nation’s leading midwife and the founder of the natural childbirth movement in America. How did you get started?

Like many women, I had tried a hospi-tal birth and vowed never to be treated that way again. It was the late 1960s and Americans were in rebellion. Women began demanding access to birth centers and midwives. At the time, my husband Stephen and I were traveling on a cross-country lecture tour with a caravan of 50 school buses; along the way, babies were born and we midwifed each other. We began to coalesce into a community, finding roots and settling in Tennessee, where we founded The Farm. Some members of our com-munity were doctors and nurses and we made contacts with local hospitals and health authorities. We had good outcomes with our pregnancies and breastfeeding rates right from the start. Our on-the-job training grew as we learned from each other as midwives and friends.

Q. What do women and their partners need to know about natural childbirth?

Women need to know that their bodies work better than they think they do. It is vital to trust the process of nature. We must believe that women’s bodies are perfectly made for childbirth and the natural rhythms of giving birth. When our larger culture understands how women’s bodies work and we trust that ours will work, we will have an entirely new psychology of childbirth. Natural childbirth can provide a holistic approach to childbearing, one that includes the physical and emo-tional, spiritual, and cultural needs of each unique birth. To attend the birth of another person is a great, humbling, wonderful opportunity.

Q. Why does the mind/body connection play a key role in childbirth?

When the biological process is allowed to unfold in the most peaceful way, the mother experiences the natural release of a mixture of ecstatic hormones, oxytocin and beta endorphins. Birth-ing mothers actually have the ability to become more fluid and are able to relax the muscles that need to open. If the body senses fear, the muscles of the involuntary system become rigid and in-flexible, which makes it hard to change shape. Then, the immobility escalates, causing extreme pain where normally, labor would continue unimpeded. Fight-

ing this natural functioning wastes a lot of energy. Yet, a birthing mother can make an instant change and release the ecstatic hormones naturally, simply through deep breathing, laughter and even experiencing gratitude for those helping her. All of this works best in an atmo-sphere of privacy and calm.

Q. Will you explain what you refer to as our country’s “big secret” regarding childbirth? There is a generally held belief that childbirth is safe in the United States while, in reality, we lack accurate re-porting on this country’s rising maternal death rate. The reports we do have, based on long-term data compiled by the Centers for Disease Control and a later National Vital Statistics Report, reveal a doubling of the annual ma-ternal fatalities tracked per 100,000 live births, from 7.5 in 1982 through 1996 to 15.1 in 2005. Given suspected under-reporting due to misclassifica-tion, some estimate that the number of deaths attributed to pregnancy and its complications (which include Cesarean births, or C-sections) may be as high as three times that.

Q. What can families do to ensure a more natural birthing process is avail-able to us and our daughters?

We need to do a lot of rethinking. Americans believe that the more technology we throw at problems, the better. But, that is not necessarily true in giving birth. We need to study why the death rate is rising and take major steps to turn it around. We need a national system collecting data, more midwives, a revolution in obstetrical education and a national health-insurance system, with better prenatal and postpartum care for all women. Families must insist on it. All of this is possible.

For more information visit InaMay.com and consult a health care provider. Ina May Gaskin’s latest book, Ina May’s Guide to Breastfeeding, will be released this fall.

Gail Condrick is a freelance writer in Sara-sota, FL. Reach her at NiaVisions.com.

A Conversation with

Ina May GaskinLeader in America’s Natural Childbirth Movement

by Gail condrick

wisewords

32 May 2009

Gardening with Kidsby ted Fisher

Whether kids have access to a large yard or only a windowsill planter, young gardeners’ inborn curiosity encourages them to discover na-ture’s cycles firsthand, while learning respect and concern for Earth’s larger ecology. Gardening not only instills lifelong appreciation for the beauties of nature, but fun, hands-on activities develop delicious skills of creativity, self-discipline and even self-sufficiency.

While we can’t run out and raise a rainforest in a day, a childhood head start on understanding the environment in one’s own garden can seed a lusher future. A backyard plot of just four by four feet will serve. Be

sure to provide pathways or stepping stones for access, and then plant a rich mix of flowers and vegetables. If the family doesn’t have access to land, a container garden on a balcony, patio or deck can produce abundant flowers and vegetables; often, it makes caring for the garden even simpler. An important tip: Although a child’s garden of any size may not be as neatly tended as a parent’s or grandparent’s, give the choicest garden spot to the child. Lots of sun and good soil will aid in the success that cultivates interest. To begin, invite one or more youngsters to help prepare the soil, turning over dirt with a small shovel or trowel. Break up clumps by hand or by stomping on them. Digging holes is a favorite kids’ pastime. Next, choose easy-to-grow plants. Select as many different types as will fit well into the allotted space. Carrots, fast-growing radishes and bite-sized cherry tomatoes are good vegetable choices. For flowers, choose some that can be used as cut flowers or as special gifts for Mom, like zinnias, marigolds, snapdragons or salvia. For a spectacular touch, also plant a few sunflowers, which not only can tower up to 10 feet tall, but supply edible seeds. Include herbs such as basil and parsley for garden grazing. Yummy fragrances come courtesy of lemon verbena, rose-scented geraniums and pineapple salvia. Some plants are just for touching, like perennial lamb’s ears, with their soft, fuzzy leaves, in silvery shades of green. Starting from seed that the family has selected together from a catalog pro-vides a wondrous learning experience. Small children find large seeds such as corn, beans, pumpkins, zucchini and sunflowers easy to handle and plant. Colorful annual bedding plants such as petunias, pansies or periwinkles are also excellent choices for a ready-made start to the season. Use the seed packet, stapled to a stake with a child’s name written on it, for easy identification. Bedding plants picked out together at a nursery usually come with a plant tag, as well. Vivid pictures help children imagine what will grow. Children love something of their very own, so keep them interested and aware

healthykids


of their garden by personalizing it with a sign; say, “Mary’s Plot,” or “John’s Place.” Kids also love to water—particu-larly with the full force of the hose. Reminders that rain usually falls more gently encourage them to take it easier. A personalized sprinkling can is a good idea for younger children. Wait before weeding. Even adults can have difficulty distinguishing small, wanted plants from unwanted weeds. Often, it’s best to let things grow a little. As they do, let the garden teach recycling. Grass clippings, shredded leaves and vegetable matter, placed into a homemade compost bin, recycle themselves into highly nutritious soil for plants. “Patience is a virtue,” advises the adage, and the wait for flowers and vegetables to mature can teach the rewards of patience. Watching a garden grow may not be easy: Children may want to pull up young root veggies to see if they are “done.” Even if they do pull sprouting produce, the edibles may

be just big enough to wash off and give them a taste of better things to come. Gardening provides an ideal time to talk to a child about how plants grow and the role of worms, insects and birds as nature’s caretakers. Ask them, “If you were a plant, what kind would you be, and why? What would you tell the gardener?” The discoveries and lessons never cease. The often surprising child’s-eye view of their world can help parents guide youngsters’ personal growth, as well as their gardening skills. Finally, remember that half the fun is to pick, wash and cook the bounty. Big and small folks alike revel in the joy of the harvest. Ted Fisher is a county extension horticulturist emeritus with the Texas AgriLife Extension Service. For age-appropriate activities and other helpful insight, see: Gardening with Children, by Monika Hanneman; A Child’s Garden, by Molly Dannenma-ier; BackyardNature.net; and KidsGar-dening.org/primer.asp.

School GardensGrowing Science, Success, Service

by susie ruth

Science educators have long recog-nized the value of school gardens in motivating students to study science. Now, studies by Texas A&M and Louisiana State universities show that participating in Junior Master Gardener (JMG) school gardening programs also significantly boost students’ scores on science achieve-ment tests. Moreover, “No statistical significance was found between girls and boys.” JMG is an international 4-H youth program for grades 3 to 8, operated through each state’s coop-erative extension service and mod-eled on the adult Master Gardener program. Curriculum-related group hands-on activities integrate math, science, social studies and language arts. JMG’s newest curriculum is Literature in the Garden for grades 3 to 5. Activities revolve around six award-winning books: Plantzilla, by Jerdine Nolen; Miss Rumphius, by Barbara Cooney; Brother Eagle, Sister Sky, by Susan Jeffers; The Gardener, by Sarah Stewart; Tops and Bottoms, by Janet Stevens; and Weslandia, by Paul Fleischman. Such programs also have been shown to prompt healthier snacking, extracurricular community service and improvement in life skills. Stu-dents can participate in JMG through schools, homeschools, after-school programs, summer camps or youth clubs. To date, the program has ben-efited 970,000 youths in all 50 states and 10 countries.

Learn about the Junior Master Gardener Program at JMGKids.us. For supporting information on the benefits of school gardens from the National Science Teachers Associa-tion, search nsta.org.

34 May 2009

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

saturday, may 2 Join Chirofit for Hospice Walk & Remember- 8-10am. Meet at Chirofit for a stretching routine prior to the 5K Hospice Walk. Enter to win a 90 minute hot stone massage for participating. Do-nation. Chirofit Wellness Center, 2249 Wealthy St, Ste 240, East Grand Rapids, 616-458-2348.

Prayer, The Great Work! – 9am-9pm. Honoring The National Day of Prayer. West Michigan Inter-faith presents a day of faith speakers, experiential practices, panel discussion, visual/performing arts and more. $25/full day, $15/half. RSVP. Contact Deb at First Congregational Church, 1201 Jeffer-son St, Muskegon. 231-766-0418.

We Care - 10am-4pm. Care 4 yourself, Care 4 others. Haircuts and massages offered to benefit Mel Trotter Mission. $25 Haircut, $25 Blow-dry / $1 per minute massage (15 min minimum). Call ahead to reserve spot. Capellii & ie3, 1514 Wealthy St SE, Suites 292 & 290, Grand Rapids. 616-356-2194.

Gardening with Peter Rabbit – 10-11am. Listen to the story of naughty Peter Rabbit and plant seeds from Mr. McGregor’s garden to take home & grow in your garden. Free. Class size limited to 12 kids. Parents must attend. Overflow May 9th. Utopian Marketplace, 8832 Water St, Montague. 231-894-9530.

Ayurveda Intro with Natalie Donnellon – 1-5pm. Join us for an afternoon that will de-mystify the ancient healing art of Ayurveda and teach practical tools that are easy to integrate into everyday life. No prior experience necessary. $40. Seva Yoga Studio, 2213 Wealthy SE Ste 220, East Grand Rapids. 616-458-2541.

Awakened Potentials-Women’s Mind, Body, & Spirit Cleansing Retreat–1-10pm. Annual spring cleansing sweat lodge ceremony at Enchanted Lake facilitated by Dinah Puodziunas. Designed for women to nurture their female spirit, reconnect with mother earth release toxins. $50. For more information email [email protected]. Greenville. 616-754-9672.

sunday, may 3Healing Touch - A Heart Centered Approach to Healing with Betsy Wiley – 2-5pm. Tap into the compassion of your heart with Healing Touch, an energy based approach to healing. Restore harmony and balance in the physical, emotional, mental and spiritual bodies for self & others. $45. Expressions of Grace Yoga, 5270 Northland Drive, NE, Grand Rapids. 616-361-8580.

monday, may 4Simple Remedies for a Complicated World – 7pm. Discussion- Barbara Zvirzdinis, a well

known alternative health practitioner, will lead a discussion of herbs, homeopathy, kinesiology and more. $3 regular / $2 students & seniors. SanChez Bistro, 38 W. Fulton, Grand Rapids. 616-677-6176.

tuesday, may 5Mineral Makeup – 5:30-6:30pm. Leslee Hil-debrand from Larenim mineral makeup will be onsite to share the wonderful benefits of using 100% minerals with no talc (which is similar to asbestos) dyes, oils or chemicals. She will be doing 5 make overs and giving out samples and the whole line of makeup will be at a discount. Free. Natures Market, 1013 S. Washington Ave, Holland. 616-394-5250.

Skin Health – 6:30-7:30pm. Explore tips on minimizing sun damage and keep a healthy glow going. Experience a mini-facial and dis-cover tips to keep your skin supple and smooth. Free. Metro Health Southwest, 2215 44th St, Wyoming. 616-252-7341.

Dinner at the Forum – 6:30pm. Dispelling medical myths. Free. Call to RSVP. The Wellness Forum, 830 Forest Hill Ave, Grand Rapids. 616-942-7907.

Wednesday, may 6FREE Self Defense Techniques Demo - 7:30-8pm. Renee Gavin will demonstrate. This fol-lows a regular EcoTrek Fitness session at this location from 6-7:15pm. $12 drop in fee. Not required to attend the session in order to attend the free demo after. Coast Guard Park, 18101 North Shore Drive, Ferrysburg, 616-291-2851.

Friday, may 8Pirate Party – 6-8pm. Children ages 3 and older will have a rewarding experience as they live out lives of pirates at Gymco. Activities include rock wall, rope swing, trampoline and much more. NonMembers $25 / Members $20. Gymco Sports, 2306 Camelot Ridge Court SE, Grand Rapids. 616-956-0586.

Pranayama & Chakras with Nancy Mc-Caochan – 6:30-9pm. Saturday 12pm-3pm. Explore prana within yoga postures and pres-ent basic breath practices. The chakras session will present information about the chakras and offer techniques for working.$30/Fri, $35/Sat, $60/both. Seva Yoga Studio, 2213 Wealthy SE Ste 220, East Grand Rapids. 616-458-2541.

monday, may 11Mother’s Day Monday: An Evening of Pampering - 6-9pm. Mother’s Day extended into Monday. A pampering event for your

mom includes massage, paraffin baths, tea and more. $75. Please RSVP. Chirofit Wellness Center, 2249 Wealthy St, Ste 240, East Grand Rapids, 616-458-2348.

Film: A Big Country - A Winter’s Tale – 7pm. Aus-tralian biodynamic farmer Alex Podolinski explains & demonstrates the philosophy & practices revealed by Rudolf Steiner. Slides & discussion of BD farm-ing operations in New Zealand, PA, NJ and MI. $7 regular / $5 students & seniors. SanChez Bistro, 38 W. Fulton, Grand Rapids. 616-677-6176.

tuesday, may 12Caregiver Resource Information Series – 4:30pm. Join us for a bimonthly series for caregiv-ers held at the Main Library in partnership with the Caregiver Resource Network. May’s topic is An Overview of Long Term Care. Free. Grand Rapids Public Library, 111 Library St NE, Grand Rapids. 616-988-5400.

5 Pillars to Maintaining a Healthy Lifestyle & Permanent Weightloss – 6:30-7:30pm. Learn the five pillars to maintaining a healthy lifestyle & permanent weightloss to regain your energy and vitality. Free health care seminar courtesy of Parkhurst Chiropractic & Lakeshore Wellness Center. Howard Miller Community Center, 14 S. Church St, Zeeland. 616-392-9500.

Why Should I Eat Green Tea? –7pm. Green Tea has been touted as one of the super foods. Learn what tea leaves can do for you in terms of disease prevention, fat loss and hormones. Free. Call to RSVP. The Wellness Forum, 830 Forest Hill Ave, Grand Rapids. 616-942-7907.

Wednesday, may 13Guided Meditation, Prayer & Healing Circle – 7-8pm. Prayer by church chaplains and healing by local healers. Donation. Unity Church on the Lake-shore, 41 S. Washington St., Douglas. 269-857-8226.

tHursday, may 14Community Resource & Senior Volunteer Fair –10am-12pm. Over 25 community organizations will provide information on community resources and leadership volunteer opportunities for seniors. Free. Grand Rapids Public Library, 111 Library St NE, Grand Rapids. 616-988-5400.

Friday, may 15How to Survive Spiritually in Our Times – 7pm. Eckankar book discussion on practical ways to live a spiritual life. You do not need the book to attend. Meeting Room, 76th & 131-Motel 6, 7625 Caterpillar Ct, Grand Rapids. 616-752-8460.

saturday, may 16Baby Signs – 10am. Babies can communicate what they see, feel and need with simple signs. Signing helps reduce frustration and enriches parent-children relations. Come learn how to Baby Sign. Free. Hop Scotch Children’s Store, 963 Cherry St SE, Grand Rapids. 616-233-4008.

calendarofevents


Holistic Expo – 10am-5pm. Intuitive channeled readings, tarot readings, auric photos, craniosa-cral therapy, nutritional information, ionic foot detox, homeopathic service, gift shop, ongoing classes and workshops. Pampered Goddess, 37 N. Main St, Cedar Springs. 616-433-9372.

Letting Go of Stress with Susan Duesbery – 1-4pm. Is stress having a negative impact on your relationships, health and happiness? This interactive workshop helps you learn coping strategies to lessen this destructive power in your life. $45 includes materials. Expressions of Grace Yoga, 5270 Northland Drive, NE, Grand Rapids. 616-361-8580.

Spiritual Tools for Life’s Challenges – 1-8pm. Understand déjà vu, inner light & sound, visions, divine guidance and out of body experiences. Learn ways to meet life’s tests. Includes Dreams: Exploring the Spiritual Frontier by Eckankar. Free. East Lansing Hannah Community Center, 819 Abbott Rd, East Lansing. 866-546-9224.

Awakened Potentials - 1-10pm. Women’s mind, body and spirit cleansing retreat. We will be creat-ing an alter, a sacred circle and finding symbols in nature to help us prepare for the sweat lodge ceremony in the evening (not Native American) designed for women by Dinah. $50. Awakened Potentials, Enchanted Lake, 35 miles NE of Grand Rapids in Greenville. 616-754-9672.

sunday, may 17FREE Kayak Event – 12pm-2-pm. Celebrate EcoTrek Fitness 3rd Birthday with Cari Draft Elliott. Bring your own kayak. Rentals are avail-able when you call to Pre Register. Dish-to-Pass picnic at 1:30pm. Weather permitting. Hemlock Crossing, 8115 West Olive Rd, West Olive, 616-291-2851.

Open 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 Uto-pian Marketplace, 8832 Water St, Montague. 231-894-9530.

monday, may 18Film: Holistic Veterinary Care – 7pm. Farm animal consultant Jerry Brunetti teams up with veterinarian Hubert Karreman to discuss many aspects of animal care. Basis of nutrition. Bring a notepad. $7 regular / $5 students & seniors. SanChez Bistro, 38 W. Fulton, Grand Rapids. 616-677-6176.

tuesday, may 19Spinal 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 Chiro-practic & Lakeshore Wellness Center. Howard Miller Community Center, 14 S. Church St, Zeeland 888-567-3391.

Mystic You “Awakening the Voice of Your Soul” – 7pm. Denise Iwaniw will teach tech-

niques to help develop your own unique ability to listen to divine guidance and strengthen your connection to spirit. Each intimate and light filled workshop will provide participants with tools and methods designed to awaken the physic within. $25. Class size is limited so pre-register at Pampered Goddess, 37 N. Main St, Cedar Springs. 616-433-9372.

New Research on Fibromyalgia – Depression, anxiety, aches all over? Learn the newest ap-proaches in treating this often misunderstood condition. Free health care seminar courtesy of Parkhurst Chiropractic & Lakeshore Wellness Center. Call for more information, 616-392-9500.

Wednesday, may 20Spiritual Healing – 7-9pm. Nancy O’Donohue will explain Spiritual Healing as taught by Eng-land’s National Federation of Spiritual Healers, largest healing organization in Europe. Donation. Holistic Care Approach, 3368 Beltline Ct. NE, Grand Rapids. 269-929-6796.

Facts About Silver Fillings – 6:30pm. Join leading experts in the fields of toxicity and detoxification and see why silver fillings could be ruining your life. Dr. Kevin Flood and Dr. Ronson Dykstra will present an informative & interactive workshop on the dangers of silver fillings. Please call to RSVP. Dental Health & Wellness Center, 4990 Cascade Rd SE, Grand Rapids. 616-974-4990 or 616-531-6050.

Preventing and Reversing Disease Through Diet – 7pm. Dr. Pam Popper, PhD, N.D. will discuss the physiological effects of diet within our body and how the body can heal itself given the right fuel. Free. Call to RSVP. Grand Rap-ids Community College, Calkins Auditorium . Grand Rapids. 616-942-7907.

tHursday, may 21Self-Esteem for Every Body – 6-7:30pm. Gain self confidence and learn how to develop and enhance your self esteem. $5. 175 S Waverly Rd, Holland. 616-394-3344.

Friday, may 22Kids Night Out – 5:30-9:30pm. Kids will have fun with our professional and energetic staff. Activities include rock wall, rope swing, tram-poline, obstacle course, dinner, crafts and much more. NonMembers $30 / Members $25 2nd child discount of $5. Gymco Sports, 2306 Camelot Ridge Court SE, Grand Rapids. 616-956-0586.

sunday, may 24Artist of the Month – 2-4pm. Featuring West Michigan musical artists, The La De Les. Free. Utopian Marketplace, 8832 Water St, Mon-tague. 231-894-9530.

monday, may 25Memorial Day Massages - 9am-6pm. In recog-nition of those who have served our country, we

are offering complimentary massage sessions with a $25 donation to the John D. Dingell VA Hospital in Detroit. Chirofit Wellness Center, 2249 Wealthy St, Ste 240, East Grand Rapids, 616-458-2348.

The Absolute Importance of Farm & Work Animals – 7pm. Discussion- Billions of people live interdepen-dent lives with work and farm animals. All ecosystems from the Artic to the Tropics have had soils, plants & animals living together in harmony. Paul W. Keiser leads. $3 regular / $2 students & seniors. SanChez Bistro, 38 W. Fulton, Grand Rapids. 616-677-6176.

tuesday, may 2645 Minutes to Freedom Health Talk – 6pm. Come and listen to talented speaker Dr. Morea explain how to add years to your life and life to your years. Free. Call to RSVP. Morea Chiropractic Wellness Center, 388 N 3rd Ave, Ste L, Fruitport. 231-865-7474.

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

tHursday, may 28Go Organic – 6-7:30pm. Learn what makes a food “certified organic”, when to choose organic, wild and free-range products and how these choices affect your health and the environment. $5. 175 S Waverly Rd, Holland. 616-394-3344.

saturday, may 30Potty Training Made Easy – 10am. Start potty training sooner using baby signs and other research based concepts that address the problem of later and later potty training. This class is for parents of ba-bies & toddlers. Free. Hop Scotch Children’s Store, 963 Cherry St SE, Grand Rapids. 616-233-4008.

Awaken the Healer in You – 1-5:30pm. Learn about sensing energies, the creative mind, at-tunement for healing, protection and grounding, as taught by England’s National Federation of Spiritual Healers, largest healing organization in Europe. $40. Holistic Care Approach, 3368 Beltline Ct. NE, Grand Rapids. 269-929-6796.

sunday, may 31Spiritual Healing – 12:30-2pm. Nancy O’Donohue will explain energy medicine as taught by England’s National Federation of Spiritual Healers, largest healing organization in Europe. Donation. Unity Church of Muskegon, 2052 Bourdon St, Muskegon. 269-929-6796.

saturday, June 6Awakened Potentials - 1-8pm. Creating your own authentic Soul Mandala to reveal your passion & life purpose. You will be guided through an inner journey, discover your natural gifts and talents, find oracles out in nature and connect with your inner wise woman. $50. Awakened Potentials, Enchanted Lake, 35 miles NE of Grand Rapids in Greenville. 616-754-9672.

36 May 2009

ongoingevents

provided. Evening Class once a week $48 or 2 times per week $72. To register contact Barb Badolati , 2nd floor of Frauenthal Center, 425 W Western Ave, Ste 308, Muskegon. 616-638-5625.

tuesdayPilates – Yoga Mix at Noon – 12-12:55pm. Infusion of pilates and yoga to invigorate you for the rest of the work day. $12. Cascade Yoga Studio, 5060 Cascade Road Suite G, Grand Rapids. 616-464-1610.

Beach Yoga – 6-7:15pm. June 1st-August 18th. All levels welcome. Bring a yoga mat & large blanket. Children 6-14 free with accompanying adult. $84 Summer or $10/class. Class held at Pere Marquette-lawn near Coast Guard Station. (At Muskegon Yoga Center during inclement weather) MuskegonYoga.com. Muskgeon. 616-850-8807.

Alive and Well Spring Yoga – 5:30-6:15pm. 4/7–5/12. Intermediate. A Vinyasa flow class including asana, pranayama, savasana and medi-tation. Class is customized according to student’s abilities. Evening Class once a week $48 or 2 times per week $72. To register contact Barb Badolati , 2nd floor of Frauenthal Center, 425 W Western Ave, Ste 308, Muskegon. 616-638-5625.

Inner Strength and Growth Group – 6:30-8pm. Led by Nancy Dock, LMSW, $20 per session. NLD Counseling Services, 2015 Kal-amazoo Ave SE, Grand Rapids. 616-916-0943.

Ama Deus Among Us - 7-8:30pm. An oppor-tunity 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.

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

sundayAwakening – 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 ex-pand their consciousness. Childcare available. 225 E. Exchange, Spring Lake. 616-842-1985.

Vinyasa Yoga – 5:30pm. Start your week off right with Vinyasa Yoga. $12. Cascade Yoga Studio, 5060 Cascade Road Suite G, Grand Rapids. 616-464-1610.

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

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

mondayPilates at Noon – 12-12:55pm. Start your week off right with a rigorous pilates class. $12. Cas-cade Yoga Studio, 5060 Cascade Road Suite G, Grand Rapids. 616-464-1610.

Kickboxing Class – 5:30-6:30pm. Your fitness regime isn’t complete until you try a kickboxing class with Ed Wrench. Class is open to all skill levels ages 14 and up. Don’t miss out on this opportunity. Members $8/ class, Non-members $10/class. Ramblewood Tennis & Health Club, 4250 Spartan Industrial Drive, Grandville. 616-538-4600.

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

Alive and Well Spring Yoga – 6-7:15pm. 4/6–5/11. Learn the foundation of yoga poses, breathing techniques and effective relaxation with a trained & certified yoga teacher. Modifications

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.

thursdayAbs and Arms – 9:30-10am. No chicken wings here. Get those arms and abs toned for summer. Join Heather for a 30 minute class. Members $5/ class, Non-members $8/class. Ramblewood Tennis & Health Club, 4250 Spartan Industrial Drive, Grandville. 616-538-4600.

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

Green Drinks GR Network – 5-7pm. 3rd Thursday. Join other environmental enthusi-asts for casual networking and drinks. Grand Rapids. Info/location contact WMEAC at 616-451-3051.

The Coptic Center Spiritual Message Circle – 6:30-9pm. Bask in the energies of The Coptic Center as advanced intuitive and curious beginners share divine messages for an evening of intuitive discovery. Love Offering. 0-381 Lake Michigan Dr NW, Grand Rapids. 616-531-1339.

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

Shambhala Meditation Group of Grand Rapids – 7:30-9pm. Group sitting and walk-ing meditation practice followed by book dis-cussion. All welcome. Instructions provided to beginners. No need to purchase the book or read ahead. Free. Sacred Space, 58 East Beltline, Grand Rapids. 616-452-2115.

Zumba Dance Class - 7:30-8:30pm. Zumba classes includes a wide variety of dance styles such as salsa. $10. Holistic Care Ap-proach, 3368 Beltline Ct, Grand Rapids. 616-361-9221.

saturdayZen Meditation Retreat – 8am-12pm. Great Wave Zen Sangha. Last Saturday of each month. Free. Visit greatwave.org or call 231-843-7116 or 231-845-5559. Ludington.

Tai Chi Classes – 10-11am. Tai Chi can help relieve chronic pain, improve balance and coordination and tone muscles. Good for any-one regardless of age or abilities. $50. Metro Health Southwest, 2215 44th St, Wyoming. 616-252-7341.


RENTAL OPPORTUNITIESRoom & Facility Rental. The Center of Unlimited Possibili-ties “CUP” is a Wellness and Eduational center that provides space to independent practitioners and facilitators. Room share opportunity: CUP has recently renovated and created a new spa suite that includes massage, reflexology, Infrared Sauna, and a shower. If you are interested in sharing a furnished treatment room and are skilled in massage, cranial sacral therapy, or other bodywork modalities, visit CUP’s website, YourNextStepUp.com. For room rates and availability or information regarding event space, contact Amy West at 616.842.0264 x3 or [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 coun-try kitchen with island and walk-in brick fireplace, wide pine plank floors, wood ceilings & beams. Living/family room has large stone fireplace $289,000. More land available. Call 616-443-8446.

Currently Publishing Natural Awakenings Magazines - For sale in Atlanta, GA; Mobile, AL. Morris County, NJ; Roanoke, VA and Sarasota, FL Call for details 239-530-1377

classifieds

time with momby steve Hanks

Award-winning artist Steve Hanks’ many images of women convey an introspective solitude that gently prompts us to explore our own emotions, memories and life path. “Women occupy a special niche in my sensitivity,” says Hanks. “They express more storytelling ability. There’s magic in them.” He often paints women near bodies of water, each of which has a different meaning for him. Ocean surf offers perspective and helps cut problems down to size. Lakeside portraits indicate a search for solace and a sense of security. A river has direction, it is heading somewhere. Hanks grew up around San Francisco and sold his first painting at his first one-man show in high school. He later studied commercial art and life drawing, earn-ing a Fine Arts degree from the California College of Arts and Crafts in Oakland, California, before moving to New Mexico in search of a home art gallery. Hanks has been recognized as one of the Arts for the Parks top 100 artists since 1989 and one of U.S. Art magazine’s top 10 American artists since 1993. He regu-larly wins national awards and is a member of the U.S. Art Hall of Fame. To view more of Steve Hanks portfolio, visit Green-wichWorkshop.com

coverartist

In all things of nature, there is

something of the marvelous.

- Aristotle

38 May 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. Sessions starting every 6 weeks, $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 13.

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.

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, back cover.

enerGY HealinGama deus®Beth Cosmos Grand Rapids: 616-648-3354 Ama-Deusenergy.com

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

healing. See ad page 8

HealtH education centertHe wellness forumSue Scharf, Director830 Forest Hill Ave., Grand Rapids616-942-7907WellnessForum.com

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

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 13.

cHiroPractic care

dYnamic familY cHiroPracticDr. Ronson Dykstra & Dr. Ronda VanderWall4072 Chicago Drive, Grandville616-531-6050

Family owned and operated in the heart of downtown Grandville, Dynamic Family Chiropractic focuses on lifestyle improvements through living a maximized life.

A safe and natural approach to health through the combination of exercise, nutrition, detoxification and chiropractic care.

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.


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 16.

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 20.

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 13.

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.

salon

aestHetica 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.

40 May 2009

natural awakenings magazine ~ may 2009

Documents

natural awakeningsmagazines

providers of natural

natural awakenings publisher

natural awakenings magazineas

gaskingardening w i

healthy living industry

flour green

healthier community