natural awakenings magazine ~ february 2010

1natural awakenings February 2010

HEALTHY LIVING HEALTHY PLANET

feel good

live simply

laugh more

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

FREE

WILD ATTRACTION

How to Create Extraordinary Relationships

SEVENLIFE TOOLSHow to stay lighthearted

in challenging times

LIGHTEN UP ANDLAUGH MORE

GOOD HUMOR

FOODSSmile-worthy, Tasty Treats

2 West Michigan Edition NaturalWestMichigan.com

Little Rock/Hot Springs, AR

Mobile/Baldwin, AL& Emerald Coast, FL

Denver, COBoulder, CO

Hartford County, CTPhoenix, AZ

Fairfield County, CT

Daytona/Volusia/Flagler, FLNew Haven/

Middlesex, CT

Melbourne/Vero Beach, FLJacksonville/

St. Augustine, FL Miami & Florida Keys

Ft. Lauderdale, FLNaples/

Ft. Myers, FL Orlando, FLNorth Central FL Palm Beach, FL

Tampa/St. Petersburg, FLTallahassee, FL

Florida’s Treasure Coast

Sarasota, FLPeace River, FL& Portland, OR

Atlanta, GA Louisville/Metro, KYLexington, KY New Orleans, LA

San Diego, CA

Ann Arbor, MIGrand Rapids, MI

Wayne County, MI

Asheville, NCRaleigh/Durham/

Chapel Hill, NCSouthern Coast, NC Monmouth &

Ocean, NJSomerset -

Middlesex, NJ

New York City, NY

Long Island, NY

Rockland/Orange, NY

Santa Fe/Albuquerque, NM

Oklahoma City, OKCincinnati, OH Tulsa, OKBucks County, PA

Lehigh Valley, PA

Charleston, SC Rhode Island

East TexasRichmond, VA

Southwestern VAMadison, WI

Tucson, AZ

Portland, OR

Upstate, SCColumbia, SC &Grand Strand, SC Austin, TX

Houston, TXSan Antonio, TX Puerto Rico

Toronto, Canada

Augusta, GA

Chattanooga, TN& Knoxville, TN

Nashville, TN

Westchester/Putnam, NY

Northeast, PA

Greater Oakland/Macomb, MI &

Greater Genesee, MI

Charlotte, NCMorris County, NJ

Central Missouri

Birmingham, AL& Huntsville, AL Ventura, CA

Lafayette, LA

Dallas, Texas

For more information call 239-530-1377 or visit us online at NaturalAwakeningsMag.com

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 in the franchise market of your choice. You’ll work for yourself but not by yourself. We offer a complete training and support system designed to help you successfully publish your own magazine.

Become a new Natural Awakenings franchise publisher in the market of your choice, or purchase one of the existing magazines currently for sale: Birmingham/Huntsville, AL; Denver, CO; Mobile, AL; and Morris County, NJ.

Our Family Tree Is Growing Strong

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contents

advertising & submissions

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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]. Dead-line for articles is the 5th of the month prior to publication. Sub-mit 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]

and much more online...more...healthbriefs, globalbriefs, news, articles, archives, calendar, classifieds, natural directory & more!

Little Rock/Hot Springs, AR

Mobile/Baldwin, AL& Emerald Coast, FL

Denver, COBoulder, CO

Hartford County, CTPhoenix, AZ

Fairfield County, CT

Daytona/Volusia/Flagler, FLNew Haven/

Middlesex, CT

Melbourne/Vero Beach, FLJacksonville/

St. Augustine, FL Miami & Florida Keys

Ft. Lauderdale, FLNaples/

Ft. Myers, FL Orlando, FLNorth Central FL Palm Beach, FL

Tampa/St. Petersburg, FLTallahassee, FL

Florida’s Treasure Coast

Sarasota, FLPeace River, FL& Portland, OR

Atlanta, GA Louisville/Metro, KYLexington, KY New Orleans, LA

San Diego, CA

Ann Arbor, MIGrand Rapids, MI

Wayne County, MI

Asheville, NCRaleigh/Durham/

Chapel Hill, NCSouthern Coast, NC Monmouth &

Ocean, NJSomerset -

Middlesex, NJ

New York City, NY

Long Island, NY

Rockland/Orange, NY

Santa Fe/Albuquerque, NM

Oklahoma City, OKCincinnati, OH Tulsa, OKBucks County, PA

Lehigh Valley, PA

Charleston, SC Rhode Island

East TexasRichmond, VA

Southwestern VAMadison, WI

Tucson, AZ

Portland, OR

Upstate, SCColumbia, SC &Grand Strand, SC Austin, TX

Houston, TXSan Antonio, TX Puerto Rico

Toronto, Canada

Augusta, GA

Chattanooga, TN& Knoxville, TN

Nashville, TN

Westchester/Putnam, NY

Northeast, PA

Greater Oakland/Macomb, MI &

Greater Genesee, MI

Charlotte, NCMorris County, NJ

Central Missouri

Birmingham, AL& Huntsville, AL Ventura, CA

Lafayette, LA

Dallas, Texas

For more information call 239-530-1377 or visit us online at NaturalAwakeningsMag.com

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 in the franchise market of your choice. You’ll work for yourself but not by yourself. We offer a complete training and support system designed to help you successfully publish your own magazine.

Become a new Natural Awakenings franchise publisher in the market of your choice, or purchase one of the existing magazines currently for sale: Birmingham/Huntsville, AL; Denver, CO; Mobile, AL; and Morris County, NJ.

Our Family Tree Is Growing Strong

50,000100,000

150,000

300,000

400,000

725,000

1,023,00

25,000

1994 1996 1998 2000 2002 2004 2006 2008

Phenomenal Circulation Growth Since 1994

Join Our Family of Publishers...

be your own boss and make a difference in your community

Memphis, TN

10

5 newsbriefs

8 globalbriefs

10 healthbriefs

12 inspiration

14 wisewords

20 healingways

25 healthykids

26 consciouseating

30 fitbody

30

26 12 SEVEN LIFE TOOLS HowtoStayLighthearted inChallengingTimes by Kari Joys

13 THE STRESS OF MESS by Kimberley Monaghan

18 WILD ATTRACTION AConversationwith PaulandPattyRichards by S. Alison Chabonais

20 LIGHTEN UP! HumorisFUNdamental toGoodHealth by Paul McGhee

22 LAUGH MORE WhyFeelingTickled isGoodForUs by Enda Junkins

25 KEEPING KIDS SINGING Comfort,Play,Teach by Jacqui DeBique

26 GOOD HUMOR FoodsThatMakeUsSmile by Judith Fertig

30 YOGA LAUGHTER EXERCISES CatalystforLaughingAlone by Dr. Madan Kataria

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.

22

25

20

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letterfrompublishers

Laughter—whatagreatthemeforthemonthof February or anytime.Life feels so much moreabundantwhen it isfilledwith loving laughter. It’struewhatLouisArmstrongsang, “When you’re smil-ing,thewholeworldsmileswithyou.”

Laughterisjustsome-thingthatweshouldalldomore of. What could bebetter than sharing heart-

feltgrinswithfamilyandfriendsandourself?Wedon’tneedtowaitforValentine’sDayoranotherspecialoccasiontorelisheveryopportunity. SometimesKylesmilesatmejusttoerasetheseriouslookfrommyface.It’snotthatI’munhappy,justgenerallyfocusedonthetaskathandandseriouslyinvolved.Asweworkedwiththisissue,Irealizedthatsmil-ingandlaughteraretwothingsIneedmoreofinmylife.I’llbetweallcould.Sharingourinnerhappinessisnotonlyfun,aswediscoverinhumorresearcherPaulMcGhee’sarticleonpage20,it’salsogoodforourhealth. IwasthinkingtheotherdayaboutthelasttimeIbellylaughedsohardithurt. Itwasafewweeksagoduringagirls’nightouttocelebratetheholidayseason.Afteranicedinnerout,weregroupedatafriend’shouseforarollickinggamenight.Weplayed,laughedandtalkedabouteverythingunderthesun.Itwasallverylivelyandcarefree.IwaslaughingsohardatonepointthatIthoughtIwasgoingtoloseit.Atthecloseofanightweneverwantedtoendweexuberantlyagreedtoget together foramerryrepriseatleastonceamonth.LettingthegoodtimesrollwithdearfriendswasthebeststressreliefandmedicineIhavehadforsometime. KyleandIwantedtosharethispictureofourfiercelylaughingdog,Thai,withyoubecauseitkeepsussmilingandchucklingeverydaywhenitpopsupasourcomputerwallpaper(page39).ItcomescourtesyofJen-niferRoede,thephotographerwhoshotourMarch2009coverart.Whenwefirstsawitintheproofs,wemusthavebeenhelplesslyrollingaroundonthefloorbentdoubleforaquarterofanhour.Italwaysstartsourdayoffright. Whatmakesyoulaugh?Maybeit’sapreciousorprecociouspicture,aquoteoralovedone’srumpledmorningface.Forthoseroughdayswhenyou’reonthehuntforagoodlaugh,youmightwanttolookuponeofthe“JustforGrins”YouTubevideosonpage21.Oneoranotherisvirtuallyguaranteedtoturnanydayonitsear. Toallthelaughterandlovethatlifeshouldbring,

AmyandKyle

Subscriptions are availableby sending $30 (12 issues)

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

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

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

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

PublishersKyle & Amy Hass

EditorsMaryAnn LawrenceS. Alison Chabonais

Linda Sechrist

MarketingStephanie Harding

[email protected]

Madeleine [email protected]

J.R. [email protected]

Design & ProductionInteractive Media Design

Scott Carvey

PrinterNewsweb

Natural Awakenings484 Sunmeadow Dr. SEGrand Rapids, MI 49508

Phone: 616-656-9232Publisher@NaturalWestMichigan.comwww.NaturalWestMichigan.com

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newsbriefs

616.328.5716 [email protected]

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New Home for Spiritual Center ExtendedGracehasmoveditsfacilitiesto233Washington,

Suite208,inGrandHaven.Pastor/experi-mentorBarbaraZielinskileadsmonthlygatheringsthesecondSundayofeachmonth.Thegatheringsbeginat1p.m.withapotlucklunchandmoveintoanon-traditionalcelebrationofGodbeyond,betweenandwithin.Theministryisopen,affirmingandin-clusiveofbelieversofallfaithsandbackgroundsincluding,accordingtoZielinski,“thosewhosufferfromaddictions,andallofthosewholiveonthemarginsorfindthemselveslivingasoutcastsinsociety.” ZielinskisaysweallsharewithotherstheworthwhichcomesfrombeinguniqueindividualscreatedandincarnatedbyGod.“Ihavealwayssoughtoutalternativemeansoffoster-inghealthandhealinginWestMichigan.TodaythatincludesleadingamonthlyworshipandofferingavarietyofmodalitiesforSpiritualhealingandintegrationofbody,mindandspirit.” InadditiontobeinganOrdainedMinister,Zielinskiisalsoa Reiki Master and a CertifiedAcupuncture DetoxificationSpecialist. She is available to facilitate IntegralWorkshops,offerIntegralLifeDesignandCoachingandleadPilgrimagestoChinathroughPilgrimSpiritTours. Energy and Spiritual Healing can be scheduled by calling 616-502-2078. Email [email protected]. See ad page 38.

Share a Breath,Share the MomentExplorethegoodness

of a shared yogapracticethismonthwiththeHotVinyasa/PartnerYogaWorkshop7to9p.m.February10atArmentaStudioinGrandRapids.Duringtheprogram,participantscangetclosewithapartnerandstrengthenconnectionswhilehavingfuntogether.Notjustyogaforcouples,participantscanpairwithafriendoranother“solo-yogi.”Costis$40percoupleandpre-registrationisrequired.RegistrationclosesFriday,February5. PartnerYogaisaformofHathayogainwhichpartnerssup-porteachotherinmodifiedasanasequences.ThisworkshopincludesYoga-ThaiMassagetechniquestoalsolearnhowtohealoneanother.Thisisauniqueopportunitytorelatedeeplytoanotherperson,whetherit’ssomeonewithwhomyoushareyourlife,oranewfriendyou’vejustmetinclass.Allthatisneededisawillingnesstoconnect.Workingwithapartnercanhelpparticipantsmovebeyondself-limitingideasofwhattheycanandcan’tdo,learnbalanceandstrengthenbonds. Armenta Studio is located at 955 Wealthy St SE, in Grand Rapids. Register at 616-235-9642 or [email protected]. See ad page 17.

Making SmartHeart Choices for a LifetimeFebruaryisHealthyHeartMonth.HollandHospitalwill

presentafree,interactive,community-wideevent9a.m.to12p.m.February6attheHaworthInnandConferenceCenter,225CollegeAve.,inHolland.Discoverhowtoday’schoicescanimprovehealth,preventheartdiseaseandpro-videbenefitsforlife.Thisbody-mind-spiritfairbringstogetherspeakers,cookingdemonstrations,healthself-assessments,TaiChidemonstration,prizedrawingsandvendorbooths,includingNature’sMarket. Event speakers include cardiologist Dr. David John-son fromWestMichiganHeart, inspirational scholar andsurvivor/thriverRayVanderLaan,andRegisteredDietitianHeatherBogetta fromTheCenter forGoodHealth.Don’tmissthischancetohavefunandlearnthesecretstolifelonghearthealth. Admission is free, but registration is requested. Call The Center for Good Health at 616-394-3344. See Natures Market ad page 12.

Matrix Energetics: The Essence of Energy MedicineTwoyearsago,naturopathicdoctorandchiropractorRich-

ardBartlettcreatedastirinthescientificcommunitywiththepublicationofMatrix Energetics,abookthatchallengesconventionalperceptionsof reality.According toBartlett,


MatrixEnergetics®isaconsciousnesstechnologybasedonthelawsofquantumphysicsandfocusedintent.“Thousandshaveusedthisconsciousnesstechnologytocreate‘healing’forthemselves,theirfamiliesandeventheenvironmentinwhichtheylive,”saysBartlett. The technologywasdevelopedaftermanyyearsof re-search,andBartlettsaysthatit,“producesphysicallyverifiableresultsthatoftendefyrationalexplanation.” Dr.NormanShealy,oneoftheworld’sleadingexpertsinpainmanagementandfounderof theShealy Institute,callsMatrixEnergetics,“theessenceofenergymedicine.” “ThebookMatrix Energetics demonstratedhoweasilywecanrewritetherulesofourreality,”saysBartlett,“whetheritconcernsourhealth,ourhappinessorevenourunderstandingofwhatisphysicallypossible.” Bartlett’supcomingbook,The Physics of Miracles: Tap-ping in to the Field of Consciousness Potential,isbasedonhisseminars.AccordingtoBartlett,ittakesreaders“furtherintoMatrixEnergeticswhilesharingnewconceptsonthecuttingedgeoftransformation.” Dr. Richard Bartlett teaches his groundbreaking techniques across the United States. For information, visit MatrixEnergetics.com. See ad, page 24.

Staying Consistent In the Face of ChangeHo w d o w e

r e m a i nconsistent whenpresentedwithnewstressors?A12-monththerapeuticdetoxprogramheldonthelastSaturdayofeachmonthatSatyaYogaCenterinSaugatuckhelpstoaddressthisproblem.Participantslearntoreviewandrearrangethoughtpatternsandreactionson a monthly basis through a process of group discussion(optional),aphysicaldetoxyogapracticeandprivatejournalwriting.Theprogramtakesacloselookatwhatstressorseachperson is dealing with and how to handle emotions goingforward. “Being consistent isn’t easy when dealing with loss,change,anger,depressionorstress,”saysSatyaownerMicheleAdrianse.“Thisprogramteachesyouhowtoreachintoyourboxof‘tools’andstepaside,breathe,groundyourself,and

facethechangeathandinamorehealthyway.”Toolsmayincludeyogapractice,breath,journal,lovedones,mantracards,etc. Old habits die hard, saysAdrianse, and DetoxYoga“forcesyoutotakeacoldhardlookatyourselfandrealizethatit’soktomakemistakes.” Satya Yoga Center is located at 3385 Blue Star Highway, in Saugatuck. [email protected]. See ad page 16.

School Offers Scholarships, Work Study

NaturopathicSchoolofAnnArbornowoffersmeritscholarshipsandworkstudyexchange

programs tostudentsbyapplication.Options in-cludeHerbalStudiesrelatedwork,andopportuni-

tieswithourlivelyFarmersMarket. Contact Naturopathic School of Ann Arbor, PO Box 3599, in Ann Arbor. 734-769-7794 NaturopathicSchoolofAnnArbor.com.

Lakeshore HolisticHealth NetworkAnewgroupinHollandaimstoconnectanduniteholistic

practitioners.Itsmissionistohelppromotebusinessgrowthofthesesmalllocalcompaniesaswellastoprovideeducationtothecommunityaboutcomplementaryhealthpractices.Prac-titionersmeetonceamonth.Locationsvary.February’smeetingwillbeheldatParkhurstChiropracticinHolland. “Theresponsehasbeenoverwhelming,”saysKarlyeMc-Neely,whoisanRNandcertifiedhypnobirthingeducator.“Wedidn’trealizehowmanybusinessesinthesurroundingareawantedanetworklikethis.Wearestilltakingapplications.” To apply, contact Karen Green, ‘Health by Nature’ at [email protected] or call 616-355-5333.

Health Care Facility Expands, Adds New ServicesHolisticCareApproachhasbeen

growing.Currentlyundercon-struction,thefacilitywilladd1200


squarefeet,creating6additionaltreatmentroomsforthemanynewservicesnowofferedundertheguidanceofMedicalDirec-torDr.LauraTinning,D.O.ThegoalistobefinishedinFebruary.SomeofthenewservicesincludenutritionalIVtherapy,K-1BodyVibration,BIAtesting,andNAETallergyeliminationtherapy.Anopenhouseisscheduledthisspring. Holistic Care Approach is located at 3368 Beltline Court, NE, in Grand Rapids. Contact Barbara Meconis, 616-361-9221. [email protected]. See ad page 28.

Women’s Dare toDiscover Retreat Imagineaweekendtoreflect,relax,exploreandDaretoDis-

coveralongtheawakeningshoresofLakeMichigan.BarbaraBadolati,ofAlive&WellandBeWellRetreats.comwillhostDaretoDiscover,aSpringretreatFridayandSaturday,March19-20atMaranathaRetreatCenter,4759LakeHarbor,inNortonShores. Enjoycreativeactivitiesthatwillignitenewpassionsandspatreatments topamperandrejuvenate.Spendtimeinpeacefulsurroundingsorpartakeinyogaclasses.Severalretreatpackagesareavailable–includinglodging,fourmealsandmaterialsfortheretreat.Theweekendissuretoprovidewomenthespace,support andopportunity to relax, refreshand reconnectwiththemselves,natureandoneanotherinanurturing,healthyandhappyenvironment. To register, 616-638-5625, [email protected]. Visit BeWellRetreats.com. See ad page 35.

Free Event Showcases Local, Natural, Sustainable SolutionsGenesisUMCwillhostthefourthannualHealthandWellness

Fairfrom10a.m.to3p.m.March6intheworshipcenter,1601GalbraithSE,inGrandRapids.Thisfreeeventwillfeaturelocalexpertsinnutrition,chiropracticcare,integratedsensory-motoreducationsystemforimprovedbrainfunction,children’shealth,spiritualdirection,wholisticskincare,communitysup-portedagricultureandorganicgardening,sustainablebuildingpractices,greencleaning,naturalhomeenvironmenttechnologyandpractices,naturalhealthoptions,wholisticanimalcare,bodywork, family/children/adult counseling, Brain Gym, organicfoodsandmore. “Wehavesomanyextraordinarynaturalproductsandholis-ticservicesavailablelocally,butitcanbedifficulttofindthem”saidDorothyWard.“Thisisourattempttobringthemtogetherforourcommunity.” Exhibitswill include food samplingbooths,activitiesforchildren,hands-ondemonstrationsand speakers.HotbeveragesfromtheGenesisEspressoBarandlunchcateredbyMarieCatrib’srestaurant,willbeavailableatanominalcost.Somecomplimentaryservicesareplanned,andselectserviceswillbeavailable forasmall fee, including ionicfootdetoxification. For directions and program information, visit GenesisUMC.org or call the church at 616-974-0400. Parking is free.

Kudos

CongratulationstoSueScharf,directorofTheWellnessForum.SuewasrecentlyawardedtheFoundersAward

ata recent internationalconference.Theawardwaspre-sentedtoScharfforhercontributiontothedevelopmentofthecompanyandthefulfillmentoftheirmissionstatement. The Wellness Forum is located at 830 Forest Hill Ave SE, in Grand Rapids. Contact Sue Scharf at 616-942-7907. [email protected]. See ad page 38.

Congratulations January EcoTrekker of theMonthKimFrisingerofGrandHaven.Frisingerhasbeenattending

EcoTrekFitnesssessionssinceApril2008andenjoyswork-ingoutsideinallfourseasonsinMichigan. Contact Cari Draft, EcoTrek Fitness [email protected]. EcoTrekFitness.com See ad page 12.

1st AnnualNatural Living DirectoryThisletterinvitesyoutobe

apartofNaturalAwak-enings 1stAnnual NaturalLiving Directory forWestMichigan, coming March2010. This special annual di-rectoryofNaturalAwaken-ingsmagazinewillserveasahandyreferenceguideforconsumers to keep at theirfingertipsallyearlongwhensearching for the productsand services they want tolive a healthier and moresustainablelifestyle. ThisAtoZdirectorywillfeatureaglossarytoeducateourhealthconsciousreadersabout the benefits of various natural health modalities,sustainable products and more. Consumers trust NaturalAwakeningsinformationanditsfeaturedadvertisersbecausewe offer refreshing and educational editorial on naturalhealthandgreenliving.NaturalAwakeningsalsoprovidestheresourcesthatsupportHealth,Fitness,SustainableLiving,PersonalGrowth,andCreativeExpression.ThisDirectoryisamustforbusinessesthatofferhealthyproductsandsustain-ableservices.Don’tmissoutonthisimportantissue! Natural Living Directory prices:$119.00percategorylistingincludes5headerlines,a35worddescriptionandaphotoorlogo.Asecondcategoryis50%offor$59.50andathirdcategoryisFREE. Early Registration Rates–$99forthefirstlisting.SpecialpricingendsFebruary5th,2010.

CallNaturalAwakeningsat616-656-9232fordetails,examplesandtoreserveyourspaceinourNaturalLivingDirectory.


Digital StorytellingEvery Community Has a Memory of ItselfAcommunityisacollectiveidentitywovenofathousandindividualstories,alivinghistoryofvaluetoitsinhabitants.TheCenterforDigitalStorytellinghelpslocalpeoplemeetlocalneedsandrespondtolocalissuesbyteachingindividualshowtodigitallycapturetheessenceoftheirownstoriesinwordsandimagesinaPowerPointpresentation,three-minutevideooranotherdigitalformat. “Likeitornot,screenlanguageiswhatisbeingspokentoday,”saysDanielWeinshenker,aregionaldirectorofthecenter,whoencour-agesusallto,“Tellthestorythatonlyyoucantell.”Healwaysaskshowaplace,timeorsituationchangedusasaperson.“Withoutchange,”heobserves,“youdon’thaveastory.” Todate,theapproachhashelpedgroupsin45states,fiveCana-dianprovincesand33countries.Ithas,amongothersignsofprogress,increaseddialogbetweenfosterchildrenandsocialworkers,sharedempoweringstoriesaboutcopingwithdisabilityanddifference,andbuilttheabilityforgrassrootsactiviststousetechnologyintheirwork.

Source: Tap into more results at StoryCenter.org

News and resources to inspire concerned citizens to work together in building a healthier, stronger society that works for all. february 2 is world wetlands day.

globalbriefs

Family SolidarityAmerica Sees Decline in Divorce Rate“Manycouplesmayberediscoveringthelong-standingso-ciologicaltruththatmarriageisoneofsociety’sbestsocialinsuranceplans,”saysW.BradfordWilcox,asociologyprofessoranddirec-toroftheNationalMarriageProjectattheUniversityofVir-ginia.AccordingtoU.S.CensusBureaudata,thenumberofdivorcesamongwomen,whichhadrisento17.5per1,000in2007,fell4percentin2008. Somecouplesmaybestayingtogetheronlytemporarily,duetotightenedresourcesandthesupportprovidedbyaspouseandextendedfamilymembers;butothersmaybeappreciat-inganewwhytheygotmarriedinthefirstplace.Therecessionremindsthemthatmarriagecanbemorethananemotionalrelationship,notesthereport.Itisalsoaneconomicpartnershipandsocialsafetynet.

Source: The Christian Science Monitor


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Thrill RideVirtual Theme Park Draws upon Schoolroom SkillsDisneyWorld’s“SumofallThrills”personalizestheEpcotexperiencebyallowingkidstodreamuptheirownthemeparkattraction.Thedo-it-your-self,interactiveapproachhandsusersatouch-screencomputertabletandgivesthemfreereigntosketchabobsledtrack,rollercoasterrideorairplanejourney,andthentakeavirtualspinontheircreation.It’sthelatestexampleofanext-generationtrendinamuse-mentpark,zooandmuseumattractionsgearedtoyoungstersadeptatvideogames.Ifakidtriestobuildsomethingphysicallyimpossible,they’reaskedtoretooltheirideas.“Ouraimistoshowkidshowmathandengineeringmakethethingstheycareaboutreallycome

tolifeandhappen,”explainsKristinHilf,aspokespersonforRaytheon,theride’scorporatesponsor.

Long WeekendsFour-Day Work Week Produces Multiple BonusesUtah’spublicsectorisleadingachangetoafour-dayworkweek,watchedcloselybyotherstatesinterestedinrealizingcomparablesavingsinenergycostsforemployersandgasolinecostsforcom-muters.Thefirstyear’s13percentsavingsingovernmentbuildingenergyuseandassociated12,000-metric-tonreductioningreenhouse-gasemissionswillhelpthestatereachitsgoalofa20percentdropinenergyusageby2015.Butthat’sonlyhalfthestory. ManagersreportrisesinproductivityamongUtah’s18,000stateworkersasaresultoftheirnewfour,10-hourdays,tothetuneof9percentlesstimeoff,accord-ingtoMikeHansen,strategicplanningmanagerintheGovernor’sOfficeofPlan-ning&Budget.Theextendeddaysgener-allymakeiteasierforcustomerstoaccessservicesintheevenings.AttheDepart-mentofMotorizedVehicles,lineshavedisappeared,althoughthey’vedeterminedthatit’sbestforthedepartmenttoalsokeepFridayhours. Approvalratingsforthefour-dayworkweekarehigh,at82percentamongstateemployeesand60percentamongthegeneralpublic.ElPaso,Texas,andMelbourneBeach,Florida,havealreadymadetheswitch,aswell.Permanentthree-dayweekendsmaynotbefarbehind.

Easy AccessGreen Info to GoAnyonetiredofwadingthroughwebsitesandblogstryingtolocatethatonebitofinforma-tionthatwillanswertheirquestionaboutwhichisthebetterwaytogogreenwillappreciateGreenYour.com.Categoriesincludehome,office,body,lifestyleandtransportation.Butthat’sonlythebeginning.Inquirerscansimplytypeinthequeryofthemomentandvoilá,upcomesbrief,well-organizedbulletedlistsofeasy-to-understandtipsandin-sightonthetopic.Plus,insomecases,bonuscommentsbyhelpfulbloggers.


healthbriefsFebruary is American Heart Month.

ChildrenPlaying Outside Laugh More Child of Our Time,atelevisedresearch

projectco-producedbytheBBCandThe OpenUniversityintheUK,ishalfwaythroughitsambitious20-yearmissionoftrackingthedevelopmentof25children

sincebirth.OneofExecutiveProducerTessaLivingstone’sstudieshasfoundthatthemorechildrenplayed,themoretheylaughed,especiallywhenoutside.Infact,childrenwhoplayedthemostlaughedupto20timesmorethanothers. Asachildpsychologist,Livingstonemaintainsthatitisimportanttogetthebalancerightbetweenunstructuredplayandthehighlevelofstructuredactivity,suchasmusic,dramaandlanguageclasses,whichtakeupsomuchofthemodernchild’stime.Childrenwhoareallowedtoplayandexploreoutsidearelikelytobemoreadventurous,self-motivatedandbetterabletounderstandriskwhentheygrowup,accordingtoLivingstone. Herresearchteamfoundtheamountoftimechildrenareallowedtoroamoutoftheirparents’sighthasdroppedby90percentoverthepast20years.“Thisisanextraordinarychangeanditsaysalotaboutourfearofmodernlife,pedophilia,etc.Childrenlearntwothingsfromthis:Strangersarefearsomeanddangerous,andit’sdangeroustogooutside,”sheexplains.Shealsonotesotherresearchindi-catingthatchildrenareprobablysaferfromstrangerdangerwhenplayingoutsidewithotherchildrenthanwhenplayingonlinealone.

A Crush on GarlicWhenitcomestoprotectinghearthealth,freshly

crushedgarlicworksbetterthangarlicsupplementsordriedgarlic.NewresearchpublishedbytheAmericanChemicalSocietyexplainsthattheheart-healthyeffectsofraw,crushedgarlicresultfromhydrogensulfide,achemicalthatformswhenfreshgarliciscutorsmashed;wheneaten,thehydrogensulfiderelaxesbloodvessels,allowingforbetterflowingofbloodtotheheart.

ChoColate Calms emotionsChocolate can indeed assuage emotional stress, accord-ing to a new clinical trial. Researchers reporting to the American Chemical Society found that “highly stressed” volunteers, eating about an ounce-and-a-half (about 40 grams) of dark chocolate a day for two weeks, experi-enced reduced levels of stress hormones. The chocolate even partially corrected other stress-related biochemi-cal imbalances by modifying metabolism.

A c u - De toxAcu-Detox is a safe and ef-

fective supplement to any existing type of addiction therapy or smoking cessation program, including 12 step programs, outpa-tient therapy, and inpatient care. Acu-Detox is a specific pro-tocol within auricular acupunc-ture that decreases cravings for tobacco, alcohol and other drugs, decreases withdrawal symptoms, decreases anxiety and improves sleep. It is especially helpful for people who are in early detox, who have difficulty managing cravings, anxiety and insomnia, who have co-occurring mood disorders and who have relapsed following a period of abstinence. At five designated points in each ear, NADA (Natural Acu-puncture Detoxification Associa-tion) trained clinicians apply fine gauge, sterilized, one-time use stainless steel needles, where they remain for 30-45 min-utes while you relax quietly in a comfortable chair. People in all types of treatment settings can utilize this treatment. Most see improvement in recovery with longer periods of abstinence and shorter relapses. Acu-detox utilizes principles of both Chinese medicine and Western chemical dependency therapies to bring significant benefits to those in the process of recovery from all forms of drug addiction, as well as ciga-rette smoking, alcoholism and a variety of mental disorders.

Barbara Zielinski, ADS, of-fers Acu-Detox out of her office at 233 Washington, Suite 208 in Grand Haven or she is available to provide this treatment for groups who are already meeting elsewhere. She can be reached at 616-502-2078 or [email protected]. You can also learn more about Acu-Detox at NADA’s web site www.acudetox.com


American Red CrossRedCross.org

AmericanRedCrossIntl.ServiceP.O.Box37243Washington,D.C.200131-800-HELP-NOWhttp://tr.im/arcdh(chooseHaitiRelief&Development)

Cellphone:Sendatextmessage“HAITI”to90999.Adonationof$10willautomaticallygototheRedCrosstohelpwithreliefefforts,chargedtothesender’smobilephonebill.

CARECare.org

P.O.Box1871Merrifield,VA221161-800-521-CARECare.org/donatehaiti

Concern Worldwide ConcernUSA.org

104East40thStreet,Suite903NewYork,NY100161-800-59-CONCERNhttp://ConcernUSA.org

Direct Relief InternationalDirectRelief.org

27SouthLaPateraLaneSantaBarbara,CA93117805-964-4767http://tr.im/dridonate

Humane Society InternationalHSI.org

2100LStreetNWWashington,D.C.20037202-452-1100

Mercy CorpsMercyCorps.org

DepartmentW,P.O.Box2669Portland,OR972081-888-842-0842https://donate.mercycorps.org/dona-tion.htm?DonorIntent=Haiti+Earthquake

Oxfam AmericaOxfamAmerica.org

226CausewayStreet,5thFloorBoston,MA021141-800-776-9326https://secure.oxfamamerica.org/site/Donation2?df_id=3560&3560.donation=form1

Partners in HealthP.O.Box845578Boston,MA02284-5578617-432-5256http://act.pih.org/earthquake

World VisionWorldVision.org

P.O.Box9716FederalWay,WA980631-888-56-CHILDhttp://tr.im/wvdon

ManyreputablecharitiesrespondedimmediatelytotheHaitiearthquake relief effort, and donations are still urgently

neededastheycontinuetheirwork.AccordingtotheCenterforInternationalDisasterInformation(CIDI),monetarycontributionstoestablishedreliefagenciesarealwaysthemostusefulresponseto disasters. Financial contributions allow professional relieforganizationstopurchaseexactlywhatismosturgentlyneededbydisastervictimsandpayforthetransportationnecessarytodistributethosesupplies. TherelieforganizationslistedhereareregisteredwiththeCIDIandhavereceivedhighmarksfromCharityNavigator(Chari-tyNavigator.org), an independent nonprofit that evaluates thefinancialhealthofmorethan5,400ofAmerica’slargestcharities. Natural Awakenings truststhatthepowerofourcollectiveintention,actionandprayerswillbringcomfortandhelp.


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inspiration

Intoday’stougheconomictimes,manypeoplearefacingverydifficultlifesituations.Mounting

uncertaintiesseemtopermeatetheatmosphereofthoughtbecausesomanyhavealreadylosttheirjobsandtheirhomes.It’snoteasytostaycool,calmandcollectedwhenyoudon’tknowwhattoexpecttomorrow. Youmayfeelthatstayinglightheartedisimpossibleintoday’sworld.Butinworkingasapsycho-therapistfor30years,Ihavefoundthat,againandagain,employingthesesevensimpletoolsenablesindividualstocomethroughthedarknesstoamorelightheartedwayofliving.

1 Cry the tears that need to be cried—tears clean the windows of your soul.Ifthere’snooneto

talkto,writeyourfeelingsinajournaluntilyourbodyrelaxesandyoufeelasenseofrelief.

2 See every challenge as an op-portunity to grow.Askfordivinehelptofacechallengesinthebest

waypossibleandtofindapositivesolu-tionthatfeelsgoodtoyou.

3Choose a new reality.Affirmtoyourself“I’mchoosinganewre-ality.”Thenchangeyournegative

thoughtsandbeliefsaboutyourchal-lengestopositivethoughtsandbeliefs.

4 Imagine in living colorwhat it would be like ifa total miracle happened in your life.Whatyou

wouldsee,hear,feel,smellandtasteif,bysomemiracle,yourlifetookadefiniteturnforthebetter?

Seven Life ToolsHow to Stay Lighthearted in Challenging Times

by Kari Joys

5 Brainstorm possible solutions until you find one that feels good to you.Takesomepositiveaction

todaytowardschangingyourlifeforthebetter.

6 Practice showing love to every person you come in contact with.Rememberthatwhenyougive

love,lovealsocomesbacktoyou.

7 Look at the funny side of life and find things to laugh about. Shareyoursenseofhumorwithevery-

onearoundyou,sothattheycanlaughandhavefun,too. Repeatthisprocesseverydayuntilthingsgetbetter.Onceyougetstarted,youmaywanttocontinuedoingitfortherestofyourlife.

Spokane psychotherapist Kari Joys is director of the Center for Creative Change and the author of Choos-ingLight-Heartedness. A lighthearted seminar leader, she is a member of the American Counseling Association and a certified Yuen Wellness practitioner. Learn more at Kari-Joys.com.

http://www.naturesmarketholland.com/

http://www.globalinfusion.net/page/page/5819162.htm


S

byKimberlyMonaghan

We’veallexperiencedthelastminuterushoftidyingupforanunexpectedguest,searchinghighandlowforlosthomework,

orwadingthroughamoundofboxedfilesforanerranttaxreceipt. Misplaceditems,scrambledschedules,disorderanddisarrayaresomeofthemostcommoncausesofstress.Ironicallyenough,unlikeheavyworkdemandsandsocialobligations,theaforemen-tionedstressorsarewithinourcontrol. “Wewasteandaverageofsixweeksayearlookingforstuffinouroffices,homesandvehicles,”saidMaryDykstra,certifiedprofes-sionalorganizerandownerofWithinReachOrganizingServices.“Disorganization,guiltandstressoftenshowuptogether.” There’saviciouscyclethatoccurswhenpeoplefeeldisorganized,onethatdelvesdeeperthansimplylosinganitemonoccasionorlearningtostepoveramisplacedtoy.Thephysicalspikeofincreasedstresscannotonlybedetrimentaltoourphysicalhealth,butalsonegativelyimpactourfinancialstatusandpsychologicaldispositions. “Ifyou’repayingbillslatebecauseyoucan’tfindthemtoprocessthemontime,youarepayinghugefeesininterest,penaltiesandrushcharges,”saidDykstra.“Ifyoudon’treturnthatitemyoudecidedyoudidn’twantontime,you’vewastedthemoneyandnowhavemoreclutter.”Dykstracitednumerousfinancialimpactsarisingfromadisorganizedlifeincludingmakingunnecessaryduplicatepurchases,addingspacetostoreaccumulatedclutterandincreasingjobstressthataccompaniesadeclineinperformanceassociatedwithpoortimemanagementandorganizationalskills. “Stressisatthecoreofmanyillnesses,yetmoststressisself-imposed,”saidJudyWarmington,ProfessionalOrganizerwhoownsWomanTimeManagementandisco-founderofTheOrganizingSpecialists.“Wewanttoeliminatethisselfimposedstresssowedon’tcrushundertheweightofthestressthatcomesourwayandwehavenocontrolover.” Tostartreducingthecontrollablestressinourlives,Warmingtonsuggestedde-clutteringthephysicalitemsandcontrollingtheim-pulsetoalwayssay“yes”tonewpurchasesandsocialengagements. “Whenyoubringsomethingnew into thehouse, takeout

somethingold,”shesaid.“Whenshopping,doalotofselftalkandaskyourself‘doIreallyneedit?’and‘wherewillIstoreit?’”Alsobyputtingitemsimmediatelyawayafterusewillhelpavoidstressgainedfromthevisualclutterandthenaggingchoreitcreateslateron.Sherecommendedmonitoringhowmanypossessionsarereallyusedonaregularbasisandiftheyareonlycollectingdustit’stimetopassalong. “Inyourclose,whenit’stimetochangeseasonsturnallthehangersofthenewseason’sclothesbackward,”shesaid.“Whenyouwearanitem,turnthehangertherightwayontherodandattheendoftheseasonifanyhangerisstillfacingbackwardtheitemwasn’tworn.”TheseSmall stepswillnotonlypositively impactthehealth,butprovidesagoldenopportunitytogivetothoselessfortunate,bydonatingunusedornolongerneededitemstooneofthemanylocalcharities. Whenitcomestode-cluttering,andde-stressingourmentalstate,peaceofmindcanbeachievedbyadoptinga“healthy”viewofwhatyoureallyneedandwhatyouareabletocommitto.“Createspecificgoalsforyourselfintermsofwhereyouaregoinginlife,”saidDykstra.“Thiswillhelpyouestablishgooddecisionmakingcriteriaforwhattokeeporletintoyourlife.” Andasforsocialobligations,beselective. “Saying ‘no’ isan important timemanagement technique,”advisedWarmington.“Youcan’t sayyes toeverythingandyouwillinevitablysay‘no’tosomethingperhapsmoreimportant.”Shecautionedagainstacceptingcommitmentsthatcomewithhiddenworkagendasorunspecifictimecommitmentsandalsotoavoidthosethatwillcomeattheexpenseofspendingvaluabledowntime,whetheraloneorwithfamily. “Thesedays,lifeisextremelystressfulformanyAmericans,”saidDykstra.“Alittleorganizationgoesalongwayincreatingasenseofpeace.Createasanctuaryfromallthecrazinessbymakingyourhomeandyourlife,aplaceofsanctitynotstress.”

Kimberly Monaghan is a freelance writer and certified yoga instructor, RYT in West Michigan.

MessThe ofStress


How do you engage average church-going Americans in big-picture issues like the environment, when they may be struggling to pay the bills?

Weshowpeoplewaystheycansavemoney.Wegaveout48,000freecom-pactfluorescentlightbulbstoourcon-gregation,andtheytookthemhomeandreducedtheirenergybillsimmediately. Thereisastart-upcosttosomeofthealternativeswepromote,butsome-timesyouhavetospendmoneytosavemoney.Forexample,wehelpcongre-gationsputinsolarpanels,whichhaveapaybackperiodofabouteightyears.Onceinstalled,thatcongregationwillstartgettingelectricityforfree,andtheyreceivecreditforanyexcesselectricitytheysellbacktothegrid.

You founded Interfaith Power and Light in 1997, when the idea of putting solar panels on churches was revolutionary. Now that “green” has gone main-stream, is it easier to get congregations on board?

Wenolongerhavetobeproactive.Peoplenowcometousinsuchswarms;webarelyhavesufficientstafftodealwiththerequests,eventhoughourna-tionalofficeemployseightpeople. Wehavesometremendoussuccessstories.Perhapsthemostdramaticwaswhena10-dayblackouthit.TheCatho-licpriestwhorunsourMichiganofficeandhasasolarpanelwiredtoawind

TheRev.CanonSallyBingham,apriestatSanFrancisco’sGraceCathedral,isfounderandpresi-

dentoftheRegenerationProject,anon-profitorganizationdedicatedtogreen-ingfaith-basedcommunities.ThroughtheirInterfaithPowerandLightcam-paign,Binghamandhereco-apostleshavehelpedsome10,000congrega-tionsin28statestoreducetheircarbonfootprint. Astay-at-homemomuntilsheen-rolledincollegeatage45,BinghamisarecipientofthePurposePrize,whichhonorsleadersover60whoaretakingonsociety’sbiggestchallenges.Sheistheleadauthorofthe2009book,Love God, Heal Earth: 21 Leading Religious Voices Speak Out on Our Sacred Duty to Protect the Environment.

What scriptures or spiritual teachings specifically impel you and others to act to save the environment?

ThefirstandgreatcommandmentistoloveGodandloveyourneighborasyourself.Yourneighborisn’tjustthepersonnextdoor;it’salsothegen-erationafterus. Thisisamandateforenvironmentalprotection. Godaskedustobefruitfulandmultiplyand“tendthegarden.”We’vecertainlymultiplied;nowweneedtofocusongardening.Godgaveusdominion—whichisdifferentfromdominationandexploitation;itmeanstakingcareoftheEarth.

A Conversation with Sally BinghamCommunity Minister,National Activist

by April Thompson

wisewords


NAME:

E-MAIL:

*SOME RESTRICTIONS APPLY. Expires February 28, 2010

turbinetosupplypowertohiscongrega-tionbecameabeaconoflightbyservinguphotfoodandwarm-watershowerstothecommunity. Our“CoolCongregation”programencouragesfamiliestocompetewitheachothertohavethemostenergy-efficienthome.Wehearstoriesofkidsridingtheirbikestochurchandeventakingcoldshowerstodecreasetheirenergyuse.Oncepeoplegetthemessageofconser-vation,theybecomeadmirablycreative.

How are you building an interfaith coalition that cuts across the political spectrum?

Thesedays,we’redoingalittlemoreadvocacyworkthanweusedto,gettingpeopletoasktheirlegislatorsforlawsthatwillcutU.S.greenhousegasemis-sions.DuringourlobbydayinWash-ingtoninMay,rabbis,BuddhistsandCatholicpriestswalktheWhiteHousehallstotalkabouttheseissues. Anunexpectedconsequenceofourworkisthatpeopleofdiversereligionshaveputtheir theologicaldifferencesasideforthiscommonpurpose.Wede-liverasimilarmessagetopoliticians:Ifyouareapersonoffaith,thenyouhavearesponsibilitytocareforcreation,nomatteryourpoliticalaffiliation.

How can we learn to see living an eco-friendly life as a spiritual practice?

Thefirststepistounderstandthepresentsituationofenvironmentaldegradation.Peoplegenerallywanttodotherightthing.Yearsago,Iunconsciouslybehavedinwaysthatharmedourenvironment,butnow,amongotherthings,Icompost,driveafuel-efficientcarandunplugap-plianceswhenthey’renotinuse. Thereisadisciplineinvolvedinfollowinganykindofspiritualpath.Buteventually,itbecomeswhoyouare;you’llfindthatyourheartgrowsbiggerintheprocess.

For more information, visit TheRegen-erationProject.org.

April Thompson is a Washington, D.C.-based writer, entrepreneur and consul-tant whose work has appeared in doz-ens of books and magazines. Connect at AprilWrites.com.


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Laughter Yoga Benefits Belly MusclesAnexperimenttoassesstheeffectoflaughterof

yogaonbackpainbysportssciencestudentUlrichRehmofMünsterUniversity,inGermany,turnedupanencouragingconclusion.Incon-ductingresearchforhisPh.D.thesis,hehookeduptwohealthyyoungmentoanelectromyo-graph(EMG),whichmeasuresstrength,enduranceandincreasesinmuscleactivity.Rehmmonitoredsomeoftheabdominalandbackmusclesthatareaddressedbyconventionalstrength-eningexercisesoreveninsportsphysiotherapy. First,hisfellowstudentsper-formedaseriesofconventionalphysiotherapyexercisesonamatfor30minutes.Next,theyperformedanother30minutesoflaughteryogaex-ercises.Theworkingconclusionwasthat,“Simulatedlaughterexercisesengageasmanyabdominalmusclesasconventionalphysiotherapyexercises,sometimesevenmore.”InitialfindingsarebackedbyoverseeingprofessorDr.HeikoWag-ner,whoteacheskinesiologyattheuniversity.

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rolesaretoteachusaboutfatalflawsandhelpusmakebetterchoices. Twothingsleadtoasuccessfulse-lectionprocess:timeandcommunity.Gettingtoknowapotentialpartnerovertime,inmanyenvironmentsandcircumstances,drawsyoucloseasyouseeintotheirworld,becomeapartoftheircommunityanderase‘knowledgegaps’abouttheirlifethatcanmakeyoufeelunsure.Lookforacompas-sionateviewofbothgenders,onenottangledinself.Howdotheytreatpeopleoverwhomtheyhavepower?Tuneouttheirwordsandwitnesstheiractions. Askthemostgloriouscoupleyouknowforhelpindiscerningthequali-tiesthatwouldmakeanidealmateforyou.Womenbestevaluatewomen.Agoodmanhastheeyestoseeanothergoodman.Intoday’shighlymobilecommunities,we’reoperatingblindwhenitcomestoanindividual’srootsandreputation.Askaround.

Healthyenergyhabits,appliedtogenderaware-

ness,resultinextraordinaryrelationships,sayPaulandPattyRichards,whose59“EnergeticFactsofLife”emanatefromtheirownex-perience.TheyteachtheseprinciplesthroughtheSentéCentertheyco-foundedintheUnitedStatesandNewZealand.Botharetrainedseerswhoformerlyenjoyeddynamiccareersinaerospaceengineeringandnursing.Theycallfortheintelligentharmoniz-ingofmasculineandfeminineenergiesinintimaterelationshipsaspivotaltohumanity’ssurvival. Thismonth,inhonorofValen-tineseverywhere,Natural Awakeningsexploressomeofthekeyprinciplesthislovinglyawarepairpractices,asarticulatedintheirnewbook,Wild Attraction.

How do we ensure that we are attracted to and attracting a safe, available partner?

Atheart,youmustfirsthaveacon-fidentlyopen,positiveexpectationthatqualifiedcandidatesexist.It’sacomplexprocessthesedaystofindahealthy,well-suitedindividual.Know-ingthishelpsyourelax,ratherthanworryaboutthenearmisses,whose

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How do welcoming eyes see others?

Welcomingeyeshavea‘bringiton’ex-pression,projectedintheupperhalfoftheface,fromthenosetothehairline.Theyexudeconfidenceintheirownpowertomoveforwardandtoconnectinmutualjoywithanother,withnoneedtoproveanything.ElijahWood’svisageinthefinalleavingMiddleEarthsceneofThe Lord of theRingsembod-ieswelcome.Babies’anddogs’facesevidencesuchloveinmotion. Incontrast,thesortingeyesweuseintheworkplace,constantlyeval-uatinggoodversusbad,areonguardagainsttheunknown,warilyseekingtosquelchunpredictability.Thesearenothelpfulinsettinguparelationshipofalifetime. Awelcoming,yes-basedlifeem-bracesnewpeopleandexperiences.Itlovesandacceptsthemysteryinusmorethanwhatisknownandenjoystheinevitablesurprise.

Why is it essential to constantly assure your mate that he or she is your first choice?

Feelingchosenchangesaperson’senergy.Somethingcompressedinsideletsgowhenyouregisterthatsomeonehasselectedyouasthecenteroftheiruniverse.Ifyouarefortunate,youfirstexperiencedthisfromaparent,asachild.Women,inparticular,wanttofeelcherishedandclaimed.Whenyoudeclareyourprimarychoice,allotherchoiceslineuparoundit.Gettingbe-hindyourchoiceistransformational;itfacilitatestheformationofastunningrelationship.Amate,lover,bestfriendandlifecompanionneedstohaveuncontestedaccessinaheart-spacenotfilledwithchildren,work,hobbiesorapet.

What can lovers do to consciously keep the fire alive and the embers glowing?

ThehallmarkofCaryGrant’sappealforwomenisthathewasconstantlypayingattentiontothem,notoutofneed,butinsophisticatedappreciationofthefeminine.Menbringtheenergyofattentionthatwomenthriveon.Even

simplerituals,likearrivingeachdaydeclaring,“IloveseeingyouwhenIgethome,”communicatesthatyouvalueherpresenceinyourlife.Askingwhatsheneedsandrespondingchival-rously,withanaturalspringinyourstep,acknowledgesthatyoufindherinterest-ing.Menarerelievedtounderstandthattheirserviceisneededandappreciatedandthriveonhearingwhata“Goodjob!”theyaredoing. Ratherthanask“Whatattractsme?”ask“Whatchangesme?”Avoid-ingchangeandcontinuingtodothings

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healingways

Weallhaveanaturalhealthandhealingsystemwithinourbodythatisourbiologicalinheritance,butwhichtoomanyofushaveforgottenhowto

use.Itisourinnatesenseofhumor. Strongscientificevidenceinmultiplefieldsofresearchnowsupportstheviewthathumorplaysasignificantroleinsustaininghealth.Humor’smanybenefitstoagreatextenthingeonitsabilitytogenerateinuspositiveemotions,evensubstitutingapositiveforanegativestateinthepresenceofstress.Ageneralagreementinthebroadfieldofpsychoneu-roimmunology(studyingtheinteractionbetweenpsychologi-calprocessesandthebody’snervousandimmunesystems)isthatemotion,anditsunderlyingphysicalchangesinthebody,isthekeytounderstandingthelinkbetweenmindandbodywhenitcomestohealth. Theearliestmodernresearchonhumorandhealth,fromthe1980sand90s,firstshowedthatagooddoseofhumorworkstostrengthentheimmunesystemandreducepain.Resultsof30to40studiesconsistentlydemonstratesuchbenefits. Acommonclaimforthereducedpainassociatedwithhumorandlaughterattri-butesittotheproductionofendorphins(oneofthebody’sbuilt-inpainreducers),yetonlyonestudyinthepast25yearssupportsthisnotion.Thenotedreductioninpainmayratherbeduetotheknownmusclerelaxationeffectthatresultsfromhumorandlaughter,ortohumor’spowertomentallydistractusfromthesourceofpain. Oneexcitingnewfindingishowhumorcontributestogoodcardiachealth.Morethanadecadeago,astudypublishedintheCanadian Journal of Cardiologyshowedthathumorisheart-healthy,evenifonehasalreadyexperiencedaheartattack.Inthestudy,patientswhohadsufferedheart

attackswererandomlyassignedtoeitherastandardcardiacrehabprogramortheprogramplustheviewingofacomedyvideo,threetimesaweekforayearattherehabsite.Duringtheyear,thecomedyvideogrouphadsufferedfeweraddi-tionalheartattacksandfewerepisodesofcardiacarrhythmia.Theyalsohadsignificantlylowerbloodpressurethanthecontrolgroup. Anotherrecentstudyinthepeerreviewjournal,Heart,mayprovideanexplanationforhumor’sreportedboosttocardiachealth.Here,researchersfoundthatwatchingacomedyvideosignificantlyincreasedthediameterofamajorarteryinthearm(vasodilation),whilewatchingastress-in-ducingfilmreducedthediameteroftheartery(vasoconstric-

tion).Thisconstrictiveeffectinresponsetostressiswellestablished,andisknowntoresultinincreasedbloodpressure.Thisrelaxationeffectatthearteriallevel,inresponsetohumor,isconsistentwiththemusclerelaxationeffectthatmountingevidencealsoassociateswithhu-mor.Musclerelaxationisthekeygoalofallstressmanagementtechniques,becauseitgenerallyleadstotheeasingofpsychologi-caltensions.Concurrently,severalstudies,publishedinsuchjournalsasThe Journal of RheumatologyandThe American Journal of the Medical Sciences,nowalsohavedocu-

mentedareducedlevelofstresshormonescirculatinginthebloodofstudyparticipantsinresponsetohumor. Thelatestresearchontherelationshipofhumortohealth,underwayinJapan,isnowextendinghumor’sben-efitstoreliefofspecificdiseases.Whilelesswell-establishedthanthefindingsrelativetopainandtheimmunesystem,severalhumor-relatedstudiespublishedinThe Journal of Rheumatology,Journal of Behavioral Medicine,Journal of Psychosomatic ResearchandThe Journal of the American

Lighten Up!Humor is FUNdamental to Good Health

by Paul McGhee

Yoursenseofhumorisoneofthemostpowerfultoolsyou

havetomakecertainthatyourdailymoodandemotionalstatesupportgoodhealth.


Medical Associationhavedemonstratedsignificantcontribu-tionstohealthorwell-beingincasesofdiabetes,certainskinsensitivities,arthritis,asthmaandevenchronicobstructivepulmonarydisease(oneEuropeanstudytodate). Manycancerpatientsclaimthattheirsenseofhumorhashelpedkeepthemalive,whileplentyofevidencepointstohumorasapowerfultoolinhelpingcancerpatientsandotherscopewithseriousillnessandotherhighlystressfullifecircumstances.InonelargeNorwegianstudyofindividualsdiagnosedwithcancer,thosewithastrongersenseofhumor

(asmeasuredbyastandardizedsense-of-humortest)alsohada70percenthighersurvivalratethanothersoverthefollow-ingsevenyears. Finally,it’sinterestingtonotethatinhealthyindividu-als,watchingaone-hourhumorousvideoalsoincreasesthenumberandactivityofthenaturalkillercellsthatseekoutanddestroytumorcellsandalsohelpfightoffthelatestcoldandfluvirusesandotherforeignorganisms. Whilehumorandlaughterarenotasubstituteforaphysi-cian’sorpractitioner’scare,findingsshowthattheydohelp.Adevelopedsenseofhumor,letloosetoplay,assuresthatourbodyandmind,supportedbypositiveemotions,areatworkonourbehalf,helpingtosustaingoodhealthandwellness.

Paul McGhee, Ph.D., president of The Laughter Remedy, in Wilmington, DE, is internationally known for his own humor research; for supporting references and detailed discussion of humor/health issues, seeHumor:TheLighterPathtoResil-ienceandHealth, released this month via AuthorHouse.com. Also visit LaughterRemedy.com.

Humorshiftsperspective,allowingustoseesituationsinamorerealistic,lessthreat-eninglight.Ahumorousperspectivecreatespsychologicaldistance,whichcanhelpus

avoidfeelingoverwhelmed.

Just for GrinsBabyBeyoncéatYouTube.com/watch?v=xSdZ6akE02I

DogLegStealingBoneatYouTube.com/watch?v=JSToLWAwebA

BestCatTricksatYouTube.com/watch?v=Wvo-g_JvURI&NR=1

JKWeddingDanceatYouTube.com/watch?v=4-94JhLEiN0&NR=1&feature=fvwp


Thehighthatwegainwhenwelaughuntilweholdoursides,rollaboutonthefloorandfeelthe

tearsstreamingdownourcheeksisad-dicting.So,whatprotectsusfromsuchloosey-goosey,nonsensicalfun?Onlyourownserious,controlledapproachtolife,fromsextothefamilyvacation. Humanbeingsarenotbornseri-ous.Webeginlifefullyequippedwithaninnateplayfulnessandtheabilitytolaughfreely.Sadly,mostofuscurbourplayfulnessandlaughterasasacrificetotheseriousbusinessofadulthood.Inordertokeeplaughing,weneedtobeinapartialstateofplayfulness,eitherconsciouslyorunconsciously.Laughtertherapyisonewaytohelpuseaseouradultseriousnessandretrievethatlost

sensationofplay. Laughterisnotonlyfun;itisalsogoodforus.Atlast,somethinggoodforusthatisalsoenjoyable.Thereisnoneedforyucky-tastingdietconcoc-tions,profusesweatinginconcentratedexerciseortoughchangesforthisparticularpursuitofhealth.Allthat’srequiredispure,unrestrained,old-fashionedlaughter. Laughterhealsthebodyandeases

painfulemotionslikeangerandfear(seethismonth’sHealingWaysde-partment).Ithelpsuscopewithdailysurvivalinapleasantandeffectiveway.Contrarytocommonperceptions,inmy20yearsasalaughtertherapistIhavefoundthatlaughterisbornoftension,stressandpain,somostpeopleneednotworryaboutbeingabletolaugh.Stresshasbeencalledthenumberonehealthproblemtoday;we’veallgotit. Laughtertherapyisaboutlearningtolaughfreelyagainatthemanythingswedealwiththataren’totherwisefun-ny.Childrenwillplaywithalmostany-thingexceptdirectpain.Adultswereintendedtodothesame.Whenwecanplaywithourpain,welaugh.Whenwelaugh,weshiftourperspectiveand

Be aware. When the corners of our mouth turn up

involuntarily and we must swallow unsolicited giggles,

we may be giving way to laughter addiction.

Laugh more WHY FEELING TICKLED IS GOOD FOR US

by Enda Junkins

LAUGH TO:Relieve stress

Resolve conflictEnhance communications

Enrich relationshipsHave fun

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problemsshrinktoamanageablesize.Wedon’tdiminishtheirimportance,butwefeellessoverwhelmed. Laughteriswarm,bondingandcontagious.Itconnectswiththoseweloveandwithourfellowhumanbeings.Weneedtofeelgood.Weneedtofeelconnected.Weneedtofeelsafe.Weneedtolaughmore. Anyonecanjointhelaughtermovement.Allittakesisawillingnesstorisksomelossofcontrol.Thetimidmaystartwithafewshygiggles.Thecourageousmayjumpinwithdeepbellylaughs.Asenseofhumorisnotrequired.There’smorethanenoughstresstogoaround,andabsurdityaboundsinourdailylives.Allwehavetodoisbelieve,letgoandclapour

Laughter is the human gift

for coping and for survival;

ringing, pealing, roaring,

bubbling laughter. Chuck-

ling. Giggling. Snickering.

Snorting. These are the

sounds of soul-saving laugh-

ter that springs from our

emotional core and helps

us feel better, see things

more clearly and creatively

weigh and use our options.

Laughter helps us roll with

the punches that inevitably

come our way. We unleash

the power of laughter every

time we laugh.

hands,andlaughterwillliveagain.Sowillwe.Whenwelaugh,wefeeldeeply,whichallowsustolivefully. Wecanencourageeverydaylaughterathomebybeingplayfulwithourfamilies.Wearaclownnosewhenputtingchildrentobed.Breakupchoresbyindulginginapillowfight.Easeconflictbysayingsome-thinglightandunexpected.Lethandpuppetshelpwithfamilycommunica-tionorsayitwithahumoroushat.Lifeathomedoesn’thavetobeserious;it’sfartooimportantforthat. Wecansliplaughterintotheworkplacewithafewlightheartedwinduptoys.Playwithfrustrationsbywritingthemonshoesolesandwalk-ingonthem.Wearatemporarytattoothatexpressesourmoodfortheday.Nooneneedseeit.Findwaystocel-ebratestress;wemightaswellenjoyit.Wecanpracticelaughing,sothatwecanlaughwhenweneeditmost. MotherNaturelaughs.Shecreatedpeopleplayfulandfunny.Shealsocreatedlaughter.Why,inpursuitofseriousthings,haveweshort-circuitedbothourplayandourlaughter?Inourfrenzytosucceedandtohaveitall,wehaveshortenedeverything.Wehavefastfood,fastbanking,fastfun,fastshopping,evenfastsex.Today,lifeisalongerprocessonashorterschedule,andforthat,weneedlotsoflaughter.Ournaturallaughterisneitherfast-pacednorhigh-tech.It’snotexpen-siveanditcan’tbebought.Otherscan’tdoitforus.Allofuscandoitourselves,however,becausewe’rebornwithit,andit’sourrighttoreapallitsbenefits.Ontheoffchancethatweoccasionallyfindourselvesheadedoffto“smelltheroses”fromadrive-inwindow,atleastwecanlaughatourownfolly.

Enda Junkins, known as “The Laugh-ing Psychotherapist,” is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. For information on her keynote talks, seminars and workshops, visit Laugh-terTherapy.com.

Tips for More Laughter in Life

1. Practicelaughingfiveminutesaday;fakeit‘tilyoumakeit.

2. Lookforhumoraroundyou—onsigns,inpeople’sbehavior,onTV,innewspapers,thingsotherssayandthecrazythingsthathappentoyou.Keepajournal.

3. Shareyourembarrassingmomentswithothers.

4. Learntoplaywiththingsthatareserious,likework,socialissuesandmoney.Youmightusewordplay,sillysongsordevelopacomicalviewoftheissuetohelpyoucope.

5. Laughwithotherswhentheylaugh.

6. Wearasmile;itputsyouclosertolaughing.

7. Seekoutentertainmentthatmakesyoulaugh.

8. Amuseyourselfwithyourownsenseofhumor.

9. Buyandlistendailytoatapeoflaughter,alaughboxoralaughingtoy.

10. Playaroundwithgamesandmindlesstoysthatmakeyoulaugh.

11. Wearhatsthatmakeyoulaugh.

12. Cultivateyourinnateplayfulness.

13. Becreativewithfun.

14. Doatleastonesilly,nonconformingthingeachday.

15. Giveyourselfpermissiontolaughatanythingyouneedto.

16. Makesureyouhavefun.

Source: Enda Junkins


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1. Smileateachotherwhenyoufirstwakeup. 2. Exaggerateyouraffectionforeachother.Make everythingbiggerthanitisandaddadashofsilli- ness.Forexample:Holler“Iloveyou;”speakof yourundyingloveintermstheuniverse;orromanti- callydescribeeachother’seyeswithover-the-top comparisons,suchasblueasthedeepbluesea, greenasarajah’semeralds. 3. Laughtogetheratthefunnythingsseenandexperi- encedonadailybasis. 4. Goonaspur-of-the-momentpicnic. 5. Dancetogetherinthelivingroom,intheparking lot,onthestreetorinthemall. 6. Readtoeachotherbeforeyougotosleepatnight. 7. CuddleuptogetheronthecouchwhenyouwatchTV. 8. Findsometimeduringthedaytoenjoyalong passionate,romantickiss. 9. Walktogetherholdinghands,andswingthosehands.10. Shareatleastonebitofhumoreachday.11. Telleachotherthegoodthingsaboutoneanother.12. Makeaspecialtimeeachdaytolaughandtalkfor justthetwoofyou.13. Practicehangingouttogetheroveracupofcoffee orglassofwine.14. Developlotsofdifferent,playfulwaystosay,“Ilove you.”Youmight,forinstance,usedifferentaccents orlanguages;makeabannerforthelivingroom; createacard;orwriteitonthemirrorinlipstick.15. Useyourimaginationtodevelopplayfulgreetings foreachother,likeadramatichug,enthusiasticjoy atseeingeachotherandoverdonemessagesabout missingeachother.

Source: Enda Junkins

“Social psychology research shows that children laugh, on average, 150 times a

day; adults, only six times a day. During an average day, a child will smile 400 times;

an adult no more than 15 times.”

~ Robert Holden, Ph.D., founder of The Happiness Project, in LivingWonderfully

Ways to Fun-up Relationships


Singingtochildrenhelpspromotetheirdevelopment,sogoahead

andgivea“moomoo”hereanda“moomoo”there;dothehokeypokeyandturnyourselfaround.Whenitcomestochildren’ssongs,itturnsoutthatthisreallyiswhatit’sallabout—simple,sillylyricsthatarefuntosingoverandoveragain,withlittlemoretothemthanthat. Parentsandkidslovesing-ingsongslikeOld MacDon-ald’s FarmandactingoutThe Hokey Pokeytogether.Mak-ingmusicandmovementaregularpartofourchildren’slivessup-portstheirgrowthinjoyfulwaysandbringsbeautyintotheirdays. AccordingtotheparentingandchilddevelopmentexpertsatInvestinKids,Canada(InvestInKids.ca),anationalcharityaimedathelpingparentsimprovetheirparentingskills,traditionalclassicssungroutinelywithourkidscanhavetremendousbenefits.InvestinKids’thorough,research-basedapproachtoparentingspecificallyaimstotransformeverydayparent-childroutinesandactivitieslikesingingfavoritesongsintoteachablemomentsthatactivelysupportachild’shealthysocial,emotionalandintellec-tualdevelopment.Itspositiveapproachto“openingaworldofpossibilities”iscalledComfort,Play&Teach.Here’show,illustratedviaOld MacDonald’s Farm:

ComfortIf you do this:Repeatthesongseveraltimes,each

timeencouragingthechildtosaythename

ofafarmanimalthatsheknowsandmakeeachanimal’sunique

sound(e.g.,baa,cluck,oink,quack,woof-woofor

gobble).

Your child will:Feelincreas-inglyconfidentasyoupayspecialattentiontoherwhensingingthisfamiliarsong.

Olderbabies,whoarenowusing10to20words,willproudlydemonstratewhattheyknowaboutanimalsandthesoundstheymake.

PlayIf you do this:Suggestdifferentfarmanimalsthatthechildmaybelessfamiliarwith.Ifhedoesn’tknowtheanimal’ssound,demonstratethesoundforhim,orhecaninventone.

Your child will:Buildhisimaginativeskillsashetriestomakethesenewsoundsandpretendstobevariousfarmanimals.Toddlersareespeciallyeagertotrynewthingsandlovetopretend.

TeachIf you do this:Useapicturebookaboutfarmanimalsorpuppetstomakean

activityvisualandtactile.Thissupportsachildwithlittlepriorexperiencewithfarmanimals.

Your child will:Expandhervocabu-laryandbuildunderstandingofhowfarmanimalsdifferfrompetsorjungleanimals.Onceapreschoolerisspeak-ingincompletesentences,sheislikelytoadorestoriesandwillsitforlongerperiodsasyoureadtoher. Songslikethisonealsocanbeusedtobuildsocialskills.Forinstance,agroupofyoungparticipantscantaketurnsinactivitiesanddiscussions.Astheybegintoexperimentwithsounds,words,wordpatterns,rhymesandrhythms,theyalsobuildspeaking,listeningandreadingskills.Comingtoidentifyfamiliarsoundsintheenviron-mentencouragesdevelopmentofthink-ingandproblem-solvingskills,aswell. So,beforeyoufadeout,havingdecidedthatsingingthechorusofafavoritetuneonceagainisonetimetoomany,remember,there’smoretotheexercisethanmeetstheE-I-E-I-O.

healthykids

KeeP Kids siNGiNGcomfort, PlAY, teAcH

by Jacqui DeBique

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on facebook and we’ll directly alert you of

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consciouseating

“Lifeisuncertain.Eatdessertfirst,”coun-

seledwriterErnestineUlmerinhernowfamousbon mot. Whatisitaboutdes-sertsthatcanbringasmiletoeventhegrumpiestadult?WoodyAllenhasevencom-paredcomedytodessert,commentingthatitis“abitlikemeringue.” Dessertsaremeanttobelighthearted.Theveryword,afterall,istheex-actreverseofstressed. Morethananyotherpartofthemeal,afavoritedessertinstantlytakesusbacktotreasuredmomentsinourchildhood—toamoreuncomplicatedtimeinourlives—ifonlymomentarily.“Oreocookiesmakemeveryhappy,”confessescolumnistCraigWilsonofUSA Today.“Icaneatasleeveofthemsoquicklyitevenembarrassesme.Addaglassofmilk,andI’mgiddy.” Dessertencouragesustoengageourplayfulside,espe-ciallytrueifweareindulginginafamiliarconfectionwith

anewtwist:acarrotcakecupcake;miniatureicecreamsodas;

aflightoftinysnowcones,eachdrizzled

withhomemadesyrup;orachocolatechipcookie

youbreakapartlikepeanutbrittle.(Seeaccompanyingrecipes.)Maybewhatbringsoutourinnersmileisthestoryassociatedwithatreat.Perhapsit’sabakedappleGrandmausedtomake

whenyouandyourcousinsvisitedherand

managedtogetintoallkindsofscrapes.Mostofusadmittohavingasweettooth;chocolateissuchauniversalcravingthatit’salaughablelegend. AsthelatehumoristErmaBombeckremindsus,“Seizethemoment.RememberallthosewomenontheTitanicwhowavedoffthedessertcart.”

Chocolate CrostiniSosimple,yetsogood.Thefinalsprinkleofsaltmakesallthedifference.

Makes16crostini.One10-inchbaguette6 to 8 ounces good-quality dark chocolate, in bar or block form, cut into 16 pieces Extra-virgin olive oil for brushing Coarse kosher or sea salt for sprinkling

1.Preheattheovento375°F.2.Sliceofftheendsofthebreadandthenslicethebreadon

thediagonal,½-inchthick,toget16slices.Arrangethebreadonabakingsheetandbrushwitholiveoil.Bakefor15minutesoruntilgolden.

3.Removethebakingsheetfromtheovenandcarefullyplaceapieceofchocolateoneachsliceofbread.Returntotheovenandwarmfortwominutesoruntilthechoco-latebeginstomelt.Sprinklewithatinybitofsaltanddevourwhilewarm.

Good HumorFoods That Make Us Smile

by Judith Fertig

“Researchtellsusthat14outofany

10individualslikechocolate.”

~ Sandra Boynton, author ofChocolate:TheConsumingPassion

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Cookie BrittleLikeachocolatechipcookie,butwithoutanyleavening,thisdough,mixedwithdesiredflavorings,justpressesintothepan.Afteritbakes,breakoffthepieces.Ashorterbakingtimeproducesachewiercookie;alongerbakingtimedeliversacrispercookie.

Makesabout3dozenpieces.1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted organic butter, softened1 cup natural or turbinado sugar1 tsp salt1½ tsp vanilla extract2 cups organic white whole wheat flour 1 cup flaked almonds, dried cherries, snipped dried apricots or desiccated coconut1 cup semisweet chocolate chips

1.Preheattheovento350°F.Combinebutter,sugar,saltandvanilla,beatuntilcreamy.Stirinflourgradually,beatinguntilblended.Foldinthealmondsandchoco-latechips,thenpressthedoughintoalargejellyrollpan.Bake20to25minutes.

2.Removethepanfromtheovenandletcool.Breakthebakedcookieapartlikepeanutbrittle.

3.Storeinanairtightcontainer.

Baked Lemon Spice PearsThehousewillfillwiththearomasofpear,vanillaandlemonwiththisdishintheoven.Servewithafavoritespicecookie.

Makes4servings.4 firm pears, peeled, cored and cut in half lengthwise¼ cup natural or turbinado sugar1 vanilla beanOne 2- to 3-inch curling strip of fresh lemon peel¼-inch-long cinnamon stick1 cup water

1.Preheattheovento325°F.Oiltheinsideofa9-inchsquarebakingpanandsetaside.

2.Placethepearscut-sidedowninthebakingdish.Sprinklewiththesugar.Placethevanillabean,lemonpeelandcinnamonstickaroundthepears.Pourthewateroverall.Coverthepantightlywithaluminumfoil.

3.Bakefor1½hours,oruntilthepearsaresoftandfragrant.Servegarnishedwiththecurlingstripoflemonpeelfromthebakingdish.

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fitbody

Thesloganofalllaughterclubsis,“Fakeit‘tilyoumakeit.”Thisisbasedonascientificfactthat

evenifyouarefakingit,thebodycannotdifferentiatebetweenrealandmake-believeemotions.Thisishowlaughterexercisesconvertartificiallaughterintoboutsofreallaughter.Ithingesoncomingtogenuinelylaughathearingtheabsurd,sillysoundsofyourownvoice. Thefunstartswithha-ha-ha,he-he-he,ho-ho-ho,asyouplaywithlaughterexer-cisestodiscoverwhatamusesyou.Initially,fakinglaughtermayseemawkward,butwithpractice,yourbodywillbecomeconditioned,andthemomentyoustartfaking,itwillquicklyturnintotherealthing. Laughteryogaemploysavoicereinforcementtechniquebasedonthenaturalsoundsoflaughter.Aschil-dren,weshoutandscreamtoexpressourselvesfully,butasadultswehavebeenconditionedtocontrolthepitchandtoneofourvoicetothepointwhereweareunabletoexpressourfeelingstothefullest.Thefreedomandexpressionofthevoiceaffectsthefreedomofemotionsinthemind,andviceversa. Everyonehasadistinctsigna-

tureoflaughterthatcontinuallychang-es,accordingtoourstateofourmindandpersonalitytype.Giventhenaturalfeedbackbetweenbodyandmind,byopeningupyourvoicetothesoundsof

Catalyst for Laughing Alone

Fake it ‘til you make it.

Yoga

ExercisesLAUGHTER

by Dr. Madan Kataria


laughter,youcanbringaboutachangeinyouroverallemotionalexpression. Ithelpstokeepthefollowingpointsinmindwhiledoinglaughteryogaexercises:• Thepurposeistoprolongtheexha-

lation,inordertoemptythelungscompletely.Thiswillhelpyoutoinhaledeeplyandgetmoreoxygenflowingintothebody.Whiledo-inglaughterexercises,trytokeeplaughinguntilyourunoutofbreath,removingresidualairfromthelungs.

• Keepyourchinup;itbecomesmucheasiertolaughifyouarelookingupwards.Italsomakestherespira-torytractstraightandfacilitatestheflowofair.

• Spreadingyourarmsoutandlookingupcreateshappybodylanguage.Becauseofthebody-mindlink,ahappyposturefacilitatesthereleaseofhappychemicalsinthebrain.

voice reinforcementVoicereinforcementtechniqueshelptobringlaughtermoreeasily.Startbytakingalongbreathandstartsayinghaaaa-haaaa-haaaa-haaaaa-haaaafivetoseventimes.Then,trytolaughandkeeplaughinguntilyoucom-pletelyrunoutofbreath.Anotherapproachisto usethevowelsoundAeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee,andprolongitwhileraisingyourarmsoveryourhead.Withyourchinup,laughha-ha-ha-ha.Repeatthetechnique,usingAaaaaaaaaandOooooooo.Doeachfivetosixtimesandtakeafewdeepbreathsin-between. Voicereinforcementtechniquesarebestperformedwhilestanding,butyoucanalsodothemwhilelyingdown.Somepeoplefindthatbringingtheirkneestowardstheirchesthelpstoexpeltheresidualairmoreeasily.

Breath Holding technique Thewaytoemploythebreath-holdingtechniqueistotakealongbreath,raiseyourarmsoveryourheadandholdyourbreath,whilestretchingthespinebackwards.Asyoutrytocon-tinuetoholdthebreathalittlelonger,youwillburstoutlaughing.Theposi-tionbuildsuppressureinsidethelungsandfacilitateslaughter;gradually,thebraindevelopsanewconnectionbe-

tweenbreathing,stretchingandholdingthebreathandlaughter,anditbecomesaconditionedreflex. Anothervariationistokeepyoureyesclosedandtakealongbreath.Holditaslongaspossible,avoidingtheurgetolaugh.Theanticipationoflaughteriswhatpromptsrealoutburstsoflaughing.Inthebeginning,doitdeliberatelyorpretendtolaugh;soon,youwillexperiencetherealfeelingsandlaughterwillbespontaneous.

one meter laughterStandorsittoperformonemeterlaughter.Ifstanding,placeyourfeetalittleapartandpositionbothyourhandstothefarleft.Then,slideonearmovertheotherandstretchittotheoppositeshoulder,asifmeasuringaone-meterpieceoffabric.Notethesethreestages:first,touchtheelbowwhilesliding;second,reachtheoppo-siteshoulder;finally,stretchoutbotharmstoeitherside,pushyourchinup,openyourmouthabitwiderandlaughheartily. Thistechnique,whichopensthediaphragm,allowslaughtertofloweasilystraightfromthebelly.Ithasacatharticeffectasyoureleasepent-upemotionsandexperienceasenseofjoyandfreedom.

Aloooha laughterDerivedfromthetraditionalHawaiiangreeting,Alooohalaughterstimulatesbrainandbodyasitfacilitatescircu-lationandbloodsupply.Itisideallyperformedinthemorninginbed,uponwaking. Situponyourkneesandplacesomecushionsinfrontofyou.Raiseyourarms,pushupyourchinandstartsayingaprolongedAlooooooinacrescendo.Enditbysayingaloudhaaaandlaughheartily.Benddownasyoudothistodigyourheadintothecush-ions;carryonanddon’tstopifyou’reenjoyingit. Asyoudigintothecushions,youcanalsocoveryourheadwithyourarmsasyoucontinuetolaugh.Thisencouragestheflowofairandcanfeelstimulating.Manypeopleevenmovetowardslonger,hystericallaughingtoexperienceatotalfeelingofreleaseandwell-being.

Holding Your Knees laughterThislastexercisehelpsfacilitatetheupwardmovementofthediaphragmbypressinginontheabdominalmuscles.It,too,helpsimprovecirculationandstimulatesbloodflowtothebrain.Itinvolvessimplestepsofpullinginthekneesandreleasingthemasyouexhaleandinhale.• Lieonyourback,holdyourknees

togetherwithbothyourhandsandslowlybringthemclosertoyourchest.

• Whiledoingthis,pushyourchinupwardsandkeepyourmouthalittleopenandexhale.Thisstraightenstherespiratorytractandallowsafreerflowofair.

• Now,releaseyourkneesandinhalewhiletakingindeepbreaths.

Asyoubringyourkneescloserandpushyourchinupwards,usethesoundreinforcementtechniquesoflaughter.Sayaprolongedhaaaaaaainacre-scendoandthenstartlaughing.Takeafewdeepbreathsin-betweenspellsoflaughter.Whilelaughing,youcanopenorcloseyoureyes,dependingonwhatmakesyoucomfortableandhelpskeepyoulaughing. Childlikegigglingisanothergreatwayofbreakingintotrulytickledlaughter.

Dr. Madan Kataria is the founder of Laughter Yoga Clubs; connect at Laugh-terYoga.org.

Need help get-ting started? Call the free Laugh Line at the top of the hour from 6 a.m. to noon,

as well as 3, 8 and 9 p.m. and 1 a.m. (EDT), 712-432-3900, pin 6071292# to connect with a certified laughter leader. For pre-recorded sessions, call 712-432-3903 with the same pin.Source: FollowTheLaughter.com


the ins and outsbyBessheenBaker,ND;DirectorofNaturopathicInstitute&HerbsEtc.

It’soneofthemostimportanttopicsthatpeoplejustdon’ttalkabout.So,let’sgothere!ThefirstlessonIlearnedin

naturalhealthisthatdeathbeginsinthecolon.Eightypercentofalldiseaseandsufferingcanbelinkedinsomewaytobowelhealth:allergies,acidreflux,femalecramps,moodshifts,headaches,prostateinflammation,jointproblems,de-pression,tumors,growths,andtheobviousdigestiverelatedconditions, plusnumerousotherhealthcomplaints fromchildhoodandthroughoutallphasesoflife. Weareso“uptight”aboutourbowelsthatwehidethefactthattheyhaveafunction.Foodin,wasteout;right?It’sonlynatural.Yet,wedoanumberofsillythingstohidetheentireexperience.

have you ever?Madeplentyofnoiseinapublicrestroomsothattherestoftheattendeeswouldn’thearyou:cough,rattlethepaperdispenser,flushonthego,anythingtohidepotentialnoises.Howabouttherunningwatertrick,becauseyourdateisinearshotofthebathroom.Vacationconstipation:can’tgoinanunfamiliarenvironment,soyouholditforaweek!Whatwouldhappenifwetalkedaboutitmore?Mightwefeellessuncomfortablewith thisdailynecessity?Oneof themostimportantmisunderstandingsisthinkingthatthebowelsare‘normal’whentheymoveonlyonceperdayorevenonceeveryotherday. Thissimplyisnotthecase.Theintestinaltractismeanttomovelikeaconveyerbelt:onemealin,onemealout,threemealsinperday,threebowelmovementsout!Ifyouconsumethreemealsperdayandyouhaveonebowelmove-mentperday,inthreedaysyouwillhavehadninemealsandthreebowelmovements.Wherearetheothersixmeals?Sure,

somemovementsmaycontainmorethanonemeal,yetatthisrate,youaresteadilyfallingbehind.NowondertheaverageAmericanhas5poundsofundigestedrotting,fermenting,andputrefyingwasteintheirbowel.Nowonderwestink.Doyoukeepmatches,candles,andfragrancespraysinyourbathroom?Whenyourbowelsareworkingright,thewholebodyfunctionsbetter,andthereisrarelyanystrongodor. Therearethreekeythingsthatkeepthecolonhealthy:1)Exercise,bothinternallyfromeatingfruitsandvegetablesandexternallyfromwalkingandotherformsofexercise.2)FriendlyBacteria,alsoknownasacidophilus,whichservestoprotectthecolonfrombadbacteria,parasites,andinfec-tions.Italsokeepsthemovementsoft.3)Waterisessentialtothecolonasitlubricatesthebowelandreducesbuildupofthewasteproducts.Considerdrinking1/2thenumberofyourweightinouncesperday.Forexample,ifyouweigh200pounds,youwoulddrink100ozofwaterperday.It’sbesttoaddsomefreshlemon,concentratedcherryjuice,orevengreenteatothewatersothatyourbodywillabsorbitbetter. Herbalcleansesareavailableinmanyforms;hereareafewofmyfavorites:

Generally Sluggish: one Cascara Sagrada cap and twoPsylliumHullscapswithatallglassofwatermorningandnightfor21days.Cascaraisthemover,andPsylliumisthescrubber.Adjustmoreorlessofeachasneeded.Drinkplentyofwater!

Just the Morning Cleanse:1TofliquidChlorophyll,1TofAloeVerajuice,2SlipperyElmcapsules,and1FoodEnzymecap,andalargeglassofwaterorapplejuice.Trythisoneeverymorningfor30days.

Soothe & Heal for Sore Irritable Bowels:1TofWholeLeafAloeVerajuice,2capsofSlipperyElm,and2capsulesofBarleyJuicepowder.Thiscanbetakenonetothreetimesperdayaccordingtoindividualneedsuntilthebowelsarenolongersore.

Spring Cleanse for Parasites:2capsofBlackWalnutand2capsofHerbalPumpkintakentwicedailyfor30days,andletyourfishingpartnerknowyou’vegotallthesuppliesneeded.Yes,thatwasgrossbutverytrue!Manypeopleseethewormsintheirstool.

Ifyouhavequestions,contactawelleducatedherbalistoryourlocalNaturalHealthEducator.

Bessheen Baker, ND, is the Co-Founder and Directorof Education at Naturopathic Institute ofTherapies &Education (NITE), located at 503 East Broadway, Mt.Pleasant, MI. 48858.Visit www.nite-mtp.com or call989-773-1714.See ad page 8.

What aboutear piercing for weight loss?

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Across the country people are “stapling” ears for weight loss. It appears to work, but there have been reports of ear infections that caused us concern when we researched this.So we made our own system safer.We do a full piercing in a precise revised location, & it appears to be working.The cost including the gold jewelry, spheres on a post like a barbell, is $80. People report losing ½ to 1½ pounds a week by simply having a full feeling earlier in the course of eating a meal. There aren’t any guarantees here but the program is getting results.

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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.

moNdAY, feBruArY 1Angelic Alchemical Healing with Peter & Anne Selby- Feb 1-8. Visiting from Oregon, Peter Selby & his wife Anne will be presenting their powerful work of clairvoyant angelic healing & analysis of the human energy field. Healing demonstrations, private sessions & weekend workshop available. Visit youangelyou.com. The Center of Unlimited Possibilities, 14998 Cleveland St, Ste G. Spring Lake. 616-842-0264.

tuesdAY, feBruArY 2MomsBloom Infant Massage Class- 9:00-10:00am. Infant massage plays a significant role in baby’s growth & development. Helps promote better sleeping, relieves discomfort from colic, teething & distress. Taught by a Certified Infant Massage Instruc-tor. $45 per family and includes oil & instructional manual. Metro Health Hospital (Michael Faas confer-ence room). Call to register 616-828-1021.Home Care & Trigger Point- 6:15-7:15pm. Bring a partner and learn in this hands on workshop how to decrease pain and stress in your life. Free. Call to register. Courtesy of Parkhurst Chiropractic, 364 Garden St, Holland. 616-392-9500.Kids Nutrition – 6:30pm. Dine and Learn about Kids Nutrition. Our children are overweight and over sick- it is time to change that statistic. Complimentary for first visit. Reservations please. The Wellness Forum 830 Forest Hill Ave, Grand Rapids. 616-942-7907

wedNesdAY, feBruArY 3Guided Meditation and Healing Circle - 7:00-8:00 pm. Escape from stress & discover an inner world of calm, peace & joy through guided meditation & energy healing from Healing in America-trained heal-ers. $5. Holistic Care Approach, 3368 E. Beltline Ct. NE, Grand Rapids. 269-929-6796

fridAY, feBruArY 5Partner Yoga- 6:30-8:30pm. Partner yoga is a unique practice that can strengthen relationships by fortifying trust, communication, and intimacy. Class is limited to 12 couples. $35 per couple ($40 at the door) Cascade Yoga Studio, 5060 Cascade Road Suite G, Grand Rapids. 616-464-1610.

sAturdAY, feBruArY 6Advanced Reiki Training Class- 9:00am-5:00pm. This class is the next step for those who have taken Reiki I/II to learn new techniques and tools to further your healing ability. $250. Jan Atwood, LLC, Reiki Master / Teacher, 801 Broadway Ave, NW, Suite 436, Grand Rapids. [email protected]. Health Fair- 9:00am-12:00pm. Discover how today’s choices can improve health, prevent heart disease and provide benefits of life. Speakers, cooking demonstra-tions, vendor booths, prize drawings and more. Free. Call The Center for Good Health at 616-394-3344 to register. Haworth Inn & Conference Center, 225 College Ave, Holland.Flexibility for Golfers (and anyone)-1:00-2:30pm. With golf season right around the corner, now is the time to get your body ready. Individual assessment and group instruction given with take-home stretch-ing exercises provided. $10. Register at thestudiowfc.com or call 531-2026. The Studio at WFC, 933 52nd Street, Kentwood.Bella Sage Impressions Hand-Crafted Jewelry Show- 3:00-5:00pm. Local artist shares her beautiful handmade jewelry just in time for Valentines Day.

Delicious refreshments provided. Satya Yoga Center, 3385 Blue Star Highway, Saugatuck. 269-857-7289

suNdAY, feBruArY 7Extended Grace Interfaith/Mystic Community Gathering- 1:00pm-Potluck, 1:30-Integral Wor-ship embracing the God beyond, between and within. Topic: Laughter. 233 Washington, Suite 208, Grand Haven. 616-502-2078.

moNdAY, feBruArY 8Crystal Bowl Meditation with Crystal Frazee- 6:00-7:00pm. Crystal Frazee uses crystal singing bowls to support and deepen the experience of meditation. $10 donation. [email protected]. The Center of Unlimited Possibilities, 14998 Cleveland St, Ste G. Spring Lake. 616-842-0264.

tuesdAY, feBruArY 9MomsBloom Infant Massage Class- 9:00-10:00am. Infant massage plays a significant role in baby’s growth & development. Helps promote better sleeping, relieves discomfort from colic, teething & distress. Taught by a Certified Infant Massage Instructor. $45 per family and includes oil & instruc-tional manual. Metro Health Hospital (Michael Faas conference room). Call to register 616-828-1021.Free Health Workshop- 6:15pm. Morea Chiro-practic is offering a free workshop on 5 things You Can do Right Now to be The Healthiest You’ve Ever Been. Learn nutrition, exercise, supplements, & more. Call to RSVP. Morea Chiropractic 388 N 3rd Ave Ste L, Fruitport. 231-865-7474 Cleansing & Weight Loss Workshop– 6:30pm. Take the time to cleanse. Feel better and lose un-wanted weight. A light dinner will be served. Call for register. Schafer Chiropractic and Healing Spa, 1801 Breton SE, Grand Rapids. 616-575-9105Conversation with God Study Group- 6:30pm. A discussion about the messages of CwG as writ-ten by Neale Donald Walsch. $10. Indigo’s And Mystic’s Book Exchange & More, 4485 Plainfield Ave, Grand Rapids. 616-447-8298. 5 Secrets to Maintaining a Healthy Lifestyle & Permanent Weight Loss- 6:30-7:30pm. Learn the 5 pillars to maintaining a healthy lifestyle & permanent weight loss to regain your energy & vitality. Free. Call to register. Courtesy of Parkhurst Chiropractic. Howard Miller Community Center, 14 S Church St, Zeeland. 616-392-9500.Lose Weight/Feel Great- 6:30pm. Do you need to lose a few extra pounds and increase your energy? Join us to learn how to cleanse your body of toxins, lose weight and start feeling great. There will be a light dinner provided. To find out more informa-tion, please call 616-575-9105. Great Lakes Family Chiropractic, 3138 Broadmoor Ave SE, Kentwood.GR Men’s Spiritual Roundtable- 6:30-8:30pm. And 2/23. On ongoing bi-monthly gathering held on the second & forth Tuesdays of the month. Do you have questions about your spiritual path, alternatives to the prevailing fundamental religious dogma? Facilitated by Ray Farrell. Free will offer-ing appreciated. Nature’s Spiritual Connection, 615 Lyon St, Grand Rapids. 616-929-4204.

wedNesdAY, feBruArY 10Individual Silent Retreat (self-directed) - 9:00am-5:00pm on 2/11. Meditatively walk 20 acres of meadows and woods, sit and write beside the Grand

River, draw, read, or simply catch up on much needed rest. Make time for yourself the second Wednesday & Thursday of each month. $25-$75. The Leaven Center, Lyons. 989-855-2606.Your Metabolism- 2:00-3:00pm.Vibrant health isn’t just good luck, it’s a goal that intelligent people can work toward. This class is an introduction to Weight Loss School, where you can rediscover good health with good old fashioned home cooking. Free intro-ductory class. Call to RSVP. Holistic Nutrition Center 90 West 8th Street, Holland. 616-355-5333.Learn- Diet failed – Again!- 6:30pm. Register for this 8 week course with Monica Smith, LLPC, RD where you will discover your eating triggers. Pre-registration course fee is $160. Indigo’s And Mystic’s Book Exchange & More, 4485 Plainfield Ave, Grand Rapids. 616-447-8298.Guided Meditation, Prayer and Healing Circle - 7:00-8:00 pm. Relax to guided meditation, and re-ceive energy healing from local healers while church chaplains pray over your prayer requests. Donation. Unity Church on the Lakeshore, 41 So. Washington, Douglas. 269-857-8226.Hot Vinyasa/Partner Yoga Workshop - 7:00-9:00 pm. Participants can get close with a partner & strengthen connections while having fun together. Not just for couples, participants can pair with a friend or another solo yogi. $40/couple. Registration is required. Armenta Studio, 955 Wealthy St SE, Grand Rapids. 616-235-9642.

tHursdAY, feBruArY 11Have Lunch on Us – 11:45am. Learn the 5 things you can do RIGHT NOW to be the healthiest you’ve ever been. Held at Jazzy Café. Call to reserve your spot today! Morea Chiropractic, 388 N 3rd Ave Ste L, Fruitport. 231-865-7474.Natural Solutions to Arthritis Pain- 6:00pm. This free workshop will provide information and natural solutions for Arthritis sufferers. Call to register. Sponsored by The Foundation for Wellness Profes-sionals, 4150 East Beltline Suite #4. Grand Rapids. 616-447-9888. Intuitive Message Circle- 6:30pm. Also on 2/25. Share messages from your heart with others. All levels respected, helpful hints given too. $5. Indigo’s And Mystic’s Book Exchange & More, 4485 Plain-field Ave, Grand Rapids. 616-447-8298.CranioSacral Study Group- 7:00-9:00pm. Prerequi-site: Upledger CSTI. Facilitated by Ellen Costantino.

calendarofevents


$5. Contact Jamilah. Holistic Care Approach 3368 Beltline Ct NE, Grand Rapids. 616-340-0543.

fridAY, feBruArY 12Ultimate Yoga Weekend with Doug Swenson- Feb 12-14th . 4 Sessions Friday thru Sunday, sign up for entire weekend or by the segment. Call 616-458-2541 or register online at sevayoga.net. Do not miss this opportunity to study with a true Yoga Master. Seva Yoga Studio, 2213 Wealthy SE Ste 220, East Grand Rapids.Sweetheart’s Night Out- 5:30-9:30pm. Bring your child for a fun and safe evening that includes Dinner, Crafts, and fun Gym Activities. Members $25, Nonmembers $30. Gymco, 2306 Camelot Ridge Court SE, Grand Rapids. 616-956-0586.Couples Yoga- 6:30-9:00pm. With Jane Donnelly, RYT. Celebrate your coupleship and reconnect with yoga and thai partner massage. $35/couple, includes light appetizers and refreshments. [email protected]. The Center of Unlimited Possibilities, 14998 Cleveland St, Ste G. Spring Lake. 616-842-0264.Partner Yoga 6:30-8:00pm. Give the gift of pres-ence. Doing yoga together can be a rich and beauti-ful experience, especially on Valentines Weekend. Champagne & chocolate after! Taught by Carol Hendershot & Susan Duesbery. $40/couple. Ex-pressions of Grace Yoga, 5270 Northland Dr. NE, Grand Rapids. 616-361-8580.The Sacred in Everyday Life: A Creative Writing Workshop for Women - 7:00pm-1:00pm on 2/14. Our lives carry within them glimmers of the divine, moments of sacredness. In this workshop, we’ll explore the holy moments in our lives through the process of writing. $190. The Leaven Center, Lyons. 989-855-2606.

sAturdAY, feBruArY 13Naturopathic School of Ann Arbor–Open House – 11:00am-1:00pm. Meet students/staff while program is in a live session. Call to RSVP. Na-turopathicSchoolofAnnArbor.net. 734-769-7794.Two Day Meditation Retreat with Sokuzan Bob Brown- 1:30-9:00pm on 2/13& 9:00am-2:00pm on 2/14. Sitting and walking meditation and Dharma talk both days, with Bob Brown, Priest in the Soto Zen Lineage. Free, donations appreciated. Call Steve at 616-915-2024 or [email protected]. Expressions of Grace Yoga, 5270 Northland Dr. NE, Grand Rapids. 616-361-8580.

suNdAY, feBruArY 14Shadow & Soma: Awakening/Body Awareness with Ken Porter- 9:45-10:45am. Integrating the Shadow is one of the essential tasks of personal and planetary healing. The Shadow wants to be known and will create huge conflict and pain in our lives until we take ownership of is. Open to the public. Fountain Street Church 24 Fountain Street NE, Grand Rapids. 616-459-8386.

moNdAY, feBruArY 15Meditation Monday- 6:30pm. All levels welcome. Connect with your inner self as well as others in a soothing space. $10. Indigo’s And Mystic’s Book Exchange & More, 4485 Plainfield Ave, Grand Rapids. 616-447-8298.

tuesdAY, feBruArY 16Why Grass-Fed, Pastured Meat is Really Better- Presentation by Nathan and Andrea Creswick. Visit creswickfarms.com. Contact Gil at Nourishing Ways of West Michigan. Grand Rapids. 616-309-9147.YIN Circles- 6:30pm. Also on 2/23. This group meets twice a month for 8 weeks. Reclaim your feminine power without negativity. $80. Visit iambe-more.com for $20 discount coupon. Call to register. Indigo’s And Mystic’s Book Exchange & More, 4485 Plainfield Ave, Grand Rapids. 616-447-8298.Stretching - 7:00-8:00pm. Learn how simple stretch-ing routines can relieve stress; improve heart health, balance, flexibility and strength. Call to register. Free seminar courtesy of Parkhurst Chiropractic. Ultimate Fitness, 91 Douglas Ave Ste 140, Holland. 616-392-9500.

wedNesdAY, feBruArY 17Spiritual Healing with Nancy O’Donohue- 6:30pm. Nancy will explain Spiritual Healing as taught by England’s National Federation of Spiritual Healers, the largest healing organization in Europe, now teaching in Michigan. Call to register. $10. Indigo’s And Mystic’s Book Exchange & More, 4485 Plain-field Ave, Grand Rapids. 616-447-8298.Introduction to Sahaj Marg Meditation by Rob-ert Sames- 7:00pm. The class is free and open to the public. Fountain Street Church, 24 Fountain Street NE, Grand Rapids. 616-459-8386.

tHursdAY, feBruArY 18Kids Day Away- 12:00-4:00pm. Fun filled afternoon including lunch, crafts and gym time.. Members $25, Nonmembers $30. Gymco, 2306 Camelot Ridge Court SE, Grand Rapids. 616-956-0586.Feng Shui and Green Design Basics- 6:00-7:30pm. Join us to learn Feng Shui and green tips to create balanced environments that promote healthy, harmo-nious living and working environments. Free. Eden Environments, 5747 28th St SE, Grand Rapids. 616-956-5000.Guided Meditation and Healing Circle - 7:00-8:00 pm. Escape from stress & discover an inner world of calm, peace & joy through guided meditation & energy healing from Healing in America-trained healers. $5. Center for Unlimited Possibilities, 14998 Cleveland St., Spring Lake. Space is limited; reservations a must. 269-929-6796

fridAY, feBruArY 19Community Reiki Share- 6:00-8:00pm. An ongoing

reiki share open to the public that gathers the third Friday of every month. Facilitated by Patti Weaver. Free will offering appreciated. Nature’s Spiritual Con-nection, 615 Lyon St, Grand Rapids. 616-929-4204.Fire of Transformation Practice- 6:30-8:30pm. This challenging practice is for experienced Anusara yoga students. Taught by Mimi Ray. $18. Expres-sions of Grace Yoga, 5270 Northland Dr. NE, Grand Rapids. 616-361-8580.Doing Our Own Work: A Seminar for Anti-racist White People (Pt. 1) - 7:00pm-1:00pm on 2/22. Do-ing Our Own Work is an intensive seminar for white people who seek to deepen their commitment to con-fronting and challenging racism and white privilege where they live, study, and work. (Pt. 2 in March.) $690. The Leaven Center, Lyons.989-855-2606.

sAturdAY, feBruArY 20Free Yoga and Pilates Mini-Sessions- 12:00-2:00pm. Always wanted to try yoga or Pilates but never dared? Join us for one or more of six - fifteen minute classes: Chair Yoga, Pilates or Yoga, all free. Visit thestudiowfc.com for details. The Studio at WFC, Yoga and Pilates. 933 52nd St. Kentwood. 616-531-3026.Awaken the Healer in You – 1:00-5:00pm. This introduction to energy healing as taught by Eng-land’s renowned National Federation of Spiritual Healers will teach you energy healing tools you will be able to use immediately to invoke remarkable changes in your life. Taught by licensed trainer Nancy O’Donohue. $40. Center for Unlimited Possibilities, 14998 Cleveland St., Spring Lake. 269-929-6796.Community Meditation Gathering- 6:00-8:00pm. An ongoing open meditation class held on the third Saturday of every month. Topic is Love. Facilitated by Danielle Alandt. Free will offering appreciated. Nature’s Spiritual Connection, 615 Lyon St, Grand Rapids. 616-929-4204.

suNdAY, feBruArY 21Shadow & Soma: Awakening/Body Awareness with Ken Porter- 9:45-10:45am. Integrating the Shadow is one of the essential tasks of personal and planetary healing. The Shadow wants to be known and will create huge conflict and pain in our lives until we take owner-ship of is. Open to the public. Fountain Street Church 24 Fountain Street NE, Grand Rapids. 616-459-8386.Eckhart Tolle Live Meditation Event- 3:30-5:00pm. Experience Eckhart Tolle’s teachings in this new format as we join him live via streaming internet from Vancouver, BC. $5 suggested donation. Call or email to RSVP. [email protected]. The Center of Unlimited Possibilities, 14998 Cleveland St, Ste G. Spring Lake. 616-842-0264.

moNdAY, feBruArY 22Reiki Share Group- 5:30-7:30pm. If you have been trained in Reiki, you are welcome to come & share


experiences, ask questions and both give and receive. Donations accepted. Jan Atwood, LLC, Reiki Mas-ter / Teacher, 801 Broadway Ave, NW, Suite 436, Grand Rapids. [email protected]. Healer’s Rejuvenation Circle- 6:30pm. Connect with other healers & find your balance again. $10. Indigo’s And Mystic’s Book Exchange & More, 4485 Plainfield Ave, Grand Rapids. 616-447-8298.

tuesdAY, feBruArY 23Spinal Decompression Open House - 6:00-7:00pm. Learn about Spinal Decompression and how this treat-ment can alleviate pain in your life. Call to register. Free seminar courtesy of Parkhurst Chiropractic, 364 Garden St, Holland. 888-567-3391.Detoxification Workshop- 6:00pm. This free workshop will provide information how to get rid of impurities absorbed in the body from food, drink, cosmetics, cleaners, toxic chemicals and environ-mental substances. Call to register. Sponsored by The Foundation for Wellness Professionals, 4150 East Beltline Suite #4. Grand Rapids. 616-447-9888 Understanding Fibromyalgia- 6:15pm. Do you experience aches and pains that do not seem to be getting better? You may be suffering from Fibromy-algia. To find out more & learn how you can begin feeling relief, join Dr. McKenzie. A light meal will be provided. Call to RSVP 616-575-9105. Great Lakes Family Chiropractic, 3138 Broadmoor Ave SE, Kentwood.Experience Zumba- 7:00pm. Zumba is the Latin inspired fitness phenomenon that is a total body workout that seems like a party! Come prepared to move. $5.00. The Wellness Forum 830 Forest Hill Ave, Grand Rapids. 616-942-7907How Healthy is your Brain? Are Toxins Interfer-ing?- 7:00-8:00pm. Prevention Plus Event with Ro-salyn Baker-Ingham. Free. Holistic Care Approach 3368 Beltline Ct NE, Grand Rapids. 616-361-9221.Spiritual Wellness– 7:00-8:30pm. Every 4th Tues-day. A new start to the year with Coptic Minster Denise Iwaniw’s latest year long workshop, “Spiritual Wellness”. Denise brings an evening of spiritual well being and food for the soul covering a various top-ics each month. $15. The Coptic Center 0-381 Lake Michigan Dr NW, Grand Rapids. 616-531-1339.

wedNesdAY, feBruArY 24Free Chiropractic Services with Donation– 8:00am-6:00pm. Dr. Andrew Schafer will be donat-ing Chiropractic services for one day in exchange for food donations to Kid’s Food Basket. Visit kids-foodbasket.org for food items “wish list”. Call for appointment. Schafer Chiropractic and Healing Spa, 1801 Breton SE, Grand Rapids. 616-575-9105.Your Metabolism- 2:00-3:00pm.Vibrant health isn’t just good luck, it’s a goal that intelligent people can work toward. This class is an introduction to Weight Loss School, where you can rediscover good health with good old fashioned home cooking. Free

Women’s Spring ReNewalRetreat for Womenwith Barb Badolati

To Contact616 638 5625 www.BeWellRetreats.com

Fri & Sat, March 19, 20 Maranatha ResortMuskegon Michigan

We all have a hand in creating the community where we want to live.

Please support the businesses that support us...and be sure to mention you

saw them in Natural Awakenings.

It is the support of our wonderful advertisers that makes it possible to

provide this resource to you each month.

introductory class. Call to RSVP. Holistic Nutrition Center 90 West 8th Street, Holland. 616-355-5333.

tHursdAY, feBruArY 25Anti-Inflammatory Eating with Heather E. Bo-getta, RD- 6:30-8:30pm. Could your current eating style be causing unhealthy inflammation in your body? Learn simple diet changes to assist the body in neutralizing oxidative stress & inflammation. $10. For more information or to register, contact Heather at [email protected]. The Center of Unlimited Possibilities, 14998 Cleveland St, Ste G. Spring Lake. 616-842-0264.

fridAY, feBruArY 26Passionate Intimacy, Making Love Work in the Bedroom, with Drs., Holstein and Taylor- Feb 26-28. Regular consultants to the Oprah Winfrey Show & Good Morning America, they will be teach-ing their signature workshop, Passionate Intimacy. For registration & more information visit intima-cygrowthassociates.com. The Center of Unlimited Possibilities, 14998 Cleveland St, Ste G. Spring Lake. 616-842-0264.Yoga Nidra- 6:30-8:30pm. Cultivate awareness and sensitivity through intention with the practice of Yoga Nidra (yogic sleep), an ancient practice that bypasses the conscious mind to access the subconscious for powerful transformation. Taught by Katherine Florentine. $20. Expressions of Grace Yoga, 5270 Northland Dr. NE, Grand Rapids. ExpressionsofGraceYoga.com or 616-361-8580.108 Hour Anusara Yogatm Immersion Pro-gram- Feb. 26-28 , Fri 5:30-8:30pm, Sat & Sun 9am-12pm & 1:30-4:30pm. Designed to provide a good foundation of practical understanding of Anusara Yogatm for all students & is a requirement for those students who wish to enter into Anusara Yogatm Teacher Training. $495/ both weekends. FromTheHeartYoga.com 616-336-9642.

sAturdAY, feBruArY 27The Spirit at Work Through Reiki: Deepening Your Reiki Practice – 9:00am-5:00pm. For Reiki Masters who wish to continue their training. $150. Jan Atwood, LLC, Reiki Master / Teacher, 801 Broadway Ave, NW, Suite 436, Grand Rapids. [email protected]. 10 Year Anniversary Celebration- 10:00am-2:00pm. Come celebrate with us and receive a free gift plus discounts on products and services. We hope to see you there. Cj’s Studio Salon 5286 Plainfield Ave. NE, Grand Rapids. 616-364-9191.Exploring Ayurveda: The Yoga of Eating with Laura Burkett- 1:00-3:00pm. Discuss a yogic way of eating. Find out how to teach your body that life is not a fat-storing, sugar-craving emer-gency Learn how to re-connect with the cycles of the day and the year. $25 pre-register /$30 at the door. Cascade Yoga Studio, 5060 Cascade Road

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SERVICES OFFEREDComplete tax services for individuals and small businesses. Accurate and afford-able. Willing to come to you. Call Steve at 616-891-9401.

classifieds

Suite G, Grand Rapids. 616-464-1610.Consistency in the Face of Change – 4:00-6:00pm. Monthly Therapeutic Detox Practice/Program. Teach-es us how to reach into our box of ‘tools’ (i.e., our yoga practice, breath, journal, loved ones & mantra cards), and step aside, breathe, ground ourselves, and then face the change at hand in a more healthy way. $15. Satya Yoga Center, 3385 Blue Star Highway, Saugatuck. 269-857-7289

suNdAY, feBruArY 28Intuitive Fair & Lecture Series- 11:00am-5:00pm. To schedule private appointments with Maria or Joe call (810)659-6886. Appointments $10 with all other intuitives on a first come first serve basis. Entry ad-mission of $10 covers all lectures throughout the day. Nature’s Spiritual Connections 615 Lyon St. Grand Rapids. 616-929-4204.


ongoingevents

monday50% Off BioMeridian Assessments- State-of-the-art profiling and tracking of all 58 me-ridians in the body with take-home color coded charts to assess health progress. Call for an appointment. Grand Rapids. 616-365-9176.Yoga-Beginning – 9:00am. This is where you start. Learn the basic poses, strengthen, breath awareness and relax. Focus on awareness and strengthening the core. Modifications made for those with limitations. For more information visit SmilingLotusYoga.com or call Smiling Lotus Yoga, 103 E. Ludington Ave, Luding-ton. 231-852-0849.Pilates – Yoga at Noon – 12:00-12:55pm. Pilates and yoga are systems of integrated exercise. Enjoy the benefits of these comple-mentary disciplines to feel strong, centered, energized, and focused. $12. Cascade Yoga Studio, 5060 Cascade Road Suite G, Grand Rapids. 616-464-1610.Sing Song YogaTM for Kids – 4:30-5:15pm. A brand new children’s yoga program which uses children’s songs to assist in learning the yoga poses. A song sung with a familiar tune is taught for each pose. The Yoga Studio, 955 Cherry SE, Grand Rapids. 616-776-0836.Laughter Yoga with Coptic Teacher Cheryl Oliver- 6:30pm. Learn to “laugh for no reason” and get a great work out too. Wear comfortable clothing & bring a mat or pillow for optional floor exercises. Love Offering. TheCopticCen-ter.org. 0-381 Lake Michigan Dr NW, Grand Rapids. 616-531-1339.Zumba Classes- 7:30pm. $10. Held at Holistic Care Approach 3368 Beltline Ct NE, Grand Rapids. 616-361-9221.Intermediate Hatha Yoga with Mitch Cole-man – 6:15-7:30pm. Drop-ins welcome. Visit WhiteRiverYoga.com for more information. Classes meet at White River Yoga Studio, 8724 Ferry St. Montague. 231-740-6662.

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.

sundayAwakening – 9:00-9:45am. Chanting, to meditation, and beyond. Free. Christ Commu-nity Church, 225 E. Exchange, Spring Lake. 616-842-1985. Christ Community Church – 10:00am. Gathering service with traditional and con-temporary music and progressive message encouraging all to expand their consciousness. Childcare available. 225 E. Exchange, Spring Lake. 616-842-1985. Unity Church of Peace Sunday Service– 10:00am. Presenting uplifting and vibrant spiritual messages in warm and accepting atmosphere. Your ministry grades 1-12 & nursery. [email protected]. Unity Church of Peace, 6025 Ada Dr, Ada. 616-682-7812.Kripalu Yoga with Ron Collins – 4:00pm. Ideal for students who are rehabbing from illness or with symptoms such as muscle/joint pain, stress & fatigue or for those who are just beginning an exercise program. Seva Yoga Studio, 2213 Wealthy SE Ste 220, East Grand Rapids. 616-458-2541.Mindfulness Meditation & Dharma Discus-sion- 4:30-5:00pm.Discussion. Based on the writings of a Buddhist teacher. Meditation-5:00-6:00pm. Two 20min periods of sitting & 10min of walking. Free-Donations accepted. The Yoga Studio, 955 Cherry SE, Grand Rapids. 616-776-0836.Vinyasa Yoga– 5:30-6:45pm. Vinyasa flow is a physically challenging practice & prior experience is required. Heat is 82-85deg. $12. Cascade Yoga Studio, 5060 Cascade Road Suite G, Grand Rapids. 616-464-1610.The Coptic Center Sunday Series – 6:00pm. An ongoing series of inspirational speakers, centering and the piano music of Karen Lauck as we explore Universal Truths. TheCoptic-Center.org. Love Offering. The Coptic Center, 0-381 Lake Michigan Dr NW, Grand Rapids. 616-531-1339.

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

wednesday50% Off BioMeridian Assessments- State-of-the-art profiling and tracking of all 58 me-ridians in the body with take-home color coded charts to assess health progress. Call for an appointment. Grand Rapids. 616-365-9176.Lighten Up & Shine- 1:00-3:00pm. Based on Brain GymR activities, easy integrative movements help synchronize the mind, body & spirit. Led by Rebecca Kirk. $14/person. The Yoga Studio, 955 Cherry SE, Grand Rapids. 616-776-0836.Back to Yoga Basics- 6:00pm. Great begin-ner’s class and introduction to the practice - learn the foundation of poses and healing practice of yoga. Satya Yoga Center, 3385 Blue Star Highway, Saugatuck. 269-857-7289Feldenkrais Awareness Through Move-ment Class- 6:00-7:00pm. Reconnect with your ability to move, regardless of age. New classes begin 1st week of January. Visit Body-WorkbyJudith.com. Ludington Area Center for the Arts, 107 S. Harrison Street, Ludington. 231-510-5800.General Anxiety Support Group – 7:00-8:30pm. General Anxiety Support Group is open to individuals who have any kind of anxiety problem as well as their friends & family members. Anxiety Resource Center, 312 Grandville Ave, Grand Rapids. 616-356-1614.Shambala Meditation Group– 7:30pm. Sit-ting and Walking meditation in the Tibetan Buddhist tradition. Free. Beginners welcome. Instruction provided. Sacred Space, 58 E.Beltline, Grand Rapids. 616-452-2115.


ACUPUNCTUREsAmir 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, nutritional supplements and hair mineral analysis.

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 15.

BOOKSTOREiNdiGo’s ANd mYstic’s BooKeXcHANGe & more4485 Plainfield Ave, NE, Grand Rapids616-447-8298www.Iambemore.com

Featuring used books and new books based on personal growth, spirituality, music, handcrafted book accessories and other gift items. There are also book groups, classes & seminars held monthly. See ad pages 27.

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.

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.

cleANiNG serviceNAturAl Home cleANiNG service, llcEffective, Environmentally Friendly Results Sherri Geysbeek616-887-1504

Residential and Commercial Green Cleaning. Bonded and Insured. Serving all of West Michigan. [email protected]

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

Certified therapist since 1991 offering colon therapy in a sterile and professional environment. Using a holistic approach colonics relieve constipation, diarrhea, gas, bloat, poor digestion, back pain, body odor and more. See ad page 26.

tHe BodY ceNter-HollANdMarcella Clark, CMMT, CCHTKristy Hardinge, CCHT, I-ACT member650 Riley Street , Ste AHolland, MI 49424616-834-2596

Gentle, effective and professional colon cleansing designed to drop toxin levels and improve nutrient absorption. Get relief from bloating and constipation, fatigue and arthritis pain. Warm, secure environment. www.TheBodyCenter.us. See ad page 21.

thursdayGreen Drinks GR Network – 5:00-7:00pm. 3rd Thursday. Join other environmental en-thusiasts for casual networking and drinks. For more Info visit GreenDrinksGR.org contact WMEAC at 616-451-3051. Grand Rapids.Advanced Hatha Yoga with Mitch Cole-man – 6:15-7:30pm. Drop-ins welcome. Visit WhiteRiverYoga.com for more information. Classes meet at White River Yoga Studio, 8724 Ferry St. Montague. 231-740-6662.

fridayCandlelight Yin Yoga- 6:00pm. Join us for a wonderfully restorative practice of Yin yoga held by candlelight (poses held for 1-4 minutes). Please wear comfortable, warm clothing. Satya Yoga Center, 3385 Blue Star Highway, Saugatuck. 269-857-7289Yoga-Intermediate – 9:00am. Learn the basics. Holding poses longer and moving deeper into your practice and awareness of the core. Gentle back bends, inversions and arm balancing introduced. For more infor-mation visit SmilingLotusYoga.com or call Smiling Lotus Yoga, 103 E. Ludington Ave, Ludington. 231-852-0849.Feldenkrais Awareness Through Move-ment Class- 9:30-10:30am. In ATM les-sons, students engage in precisely structured movement explorations that involve thinking, sensing, moving and imagining. $40/5 week series. New classes begin 1st week of January. Contact Body Work by Judith, 121 E Luding-ton Ave, Ludington. 231-510-5800.

saturdayCommunity Pilates Class- 10:45am-11:45am. 2/6-2/13-2/20. Pilates mat work class open to the community free of charge. Bring your own mat and call to reserve a spot. [email protected]. BodyMind Pilates Studio 6504 28th. St. SE, Ste. H. Grand Rapids. 616-516-6832Sweetwater Local Foods Market - Winter Hours: Saturdays from 9am-1pm. We will be open every other Saturday from January till May beginning 1/9/10. Indoors at Hackley Health at the Lakes, Harvey St. 1/2 Mile South of Lakes Mall. Exit US 31 at Pontaluna Rd. Muskegon. Gentle Hatha Yoga with Mitch Coleman – 9:00-10:15am. Drop-ins welcome. Visit WhiteRiverYoga.com for more information. Classes meet at White River Yoga Studio, 8724 Ferry St. Montague. 231-740-6662.Gentle Hatha Yoga with Mitch Coleman – 10:30-11:45am. Drop-ins welcome. Visit WhiteRiverYoga.com for more information. Classes meet at White River Yoga Studio, 8724 Ferry St. Montague. 231-740-6662.


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 - 616-846-3026Muskegon - 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. Open 7 days a week. See ad, page 15.

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 12.

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 34.

Holistic HeAltH ceNters

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 14.

coloN HYdrotHerAPYtriciA e. GosliNGHolistic Care Approach3368 Beltline Ct NE616-481-9074

Offering an advanced client-centered dimension of colonics: gentle, safe and effective. Eliminate toxins and enhance well-being. 16 years of experience. Also offering Quantum Biofeedback sessions.

couNseliNG

dAN elliNGer, mA, llPsupervised by Psy. D. Mark MahacekHealing Ground Wellness Center857 Summit, Muskegon, MI. 49441231-755-3832

Stress Management, Neuro Emotional Technique (N.E.T.) practitioner helping to identify & let go of ‘stuck’ emotional patterns. 30 years of counseling experience, a holistic health care approach & setting. Affordable & confidential.

Holistic couNseliNG servicesDeborah Jandle, L.M.S.W346 Wealthy St. SE, Grand Rapids616-862-3296www.DeborahJandle.com

Providing services that emphasize balance in mind, body and spirit in order to improve problems related to mental health, family issues or addictions. Insurance accepted, including Priority Health.

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.

PriscillA sANders The Body Center650 Riley Street, Ste AHolland, MI 49424616-836-1819www.LearnToStressLess.com

Licensed clinical master social worker specializing in stress management. Workshops are offered at “Learn To Stress Less”, on site at the Body Center Studio. Workshops focus on learning about and experiencing modalities that create relaxation and relieve stress. See ad page 21.

deNtistrY / HolisticdeNtAl 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. See ad page 40.

eNerGY HeAliNGAmA deus®Beth Cosmos Grand Rapids: 616-648-3354 www.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 19.

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

Ordained Minister, NADA Certified Acupuncture Detoxification Specialist and Reiki Master. Cultivating healing and balance through Auricular Acupuncture for Addictions, Reiki, Integral Workshops/Coaching, Spiritual Care/Counseling, Life Passage Rituals/Ceremonies.

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

Offering Be Young therapeutic essential oils, MASAJI whole food drink, Organic meal replacement shakes, Mineral make-up. Services: Ionic detoxing foot baths, Physical and Emotional balancing, biofeedback readings. See ad page 9.

HeAltH educAtioN ceNtertHe wellNess forumSue Scharf, Director830 Forest Hill Ave., Grand Rapids616-942-7907www.WellnessForum.com

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


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 14.

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

Your phobia gone in an hour or less or its FREE. Eliminate unwanted habits and compulsions. Resolve inner conflicts, change your limiting beliefs, and achieve your goals. Transform guilt, shame, and grief.

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, lectures and classes. See ad page 15.

mAssAGetHe BodY ceNter-HollANdThe Team650 Riley Street, Ste AHolland, MI 49424616-834-2596

Our Massage Team offers several techniques and modalities. From Ahh-Shiatsu, a firm Sports Massage, Lymphatic Drainage, Detox, Hot Stone, Rossiter-Joint

Mobility, Reiki Healing, to using Oils and Aromatherapy to nurture. See ad page 28.

midwiferYBirtH 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 BirtH PArtNers, llcSusan Wente, CNM, Dr. PH231-652-3247www.HomeBirthworks.comThis 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.comOffering 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.

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

A place of beauty on the banks of the Grand River where you can find rest and nourishment for your body and spirit. Offering workshops, retreats, and rental space year-round.

sKiN cAretrAcY’s fAces dAY sPA - Holistic sKiN cAre7610 Cottonwood Dr., Ste 107 Jenison, MI 49428616-667-9690 or 616-204-3402www.TracysFaces.com

Tracy’s Faces Day Spa offers a holistic relaxing experience with natural products for skin care & hair removal from head to toe. We offer Dermalogica & Elina Elite product lines. See ad page 28.

sustAiNABledesiGN ceNter

edeN eNviroNmeNtsDenise Hopkins, AIA, LEED AP5747 28th St. SE Grand Rapids 616-956-5000www.EdenEnvironments.com

Enrich your home and work environment with beautiful, healthy, sustainable design and products. Architecture,

interior and landscape design, flooring, paint, cabinets, counters, furniture, accessories. Styled by nature, designed to nurture.

natural awakenings magazine ~ february 2010

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