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January 2013
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Natural Awakenings Detroit is pleased to sponsor this community outreach event specifically targeted for those in healthy living and green businesses. It offers an opportunity for business people from this niche to gather, network and share ideas to help support one another and grow our local green economy. This is also a great chance to learn more specific ways to partner with Natural Awakenings magazine to help grow your business. Meetings will be held at: St. Paul of the Cross Passionist Retreat and Conference Center 23333 Schoolcraft Rd • Detroit (on the I-96 service drive near Telegraph)
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m t.co line! i o r n et le o gsD nin vailab e k a a lAw les tura e artic a N t or Visi ven m e r o f
contact us Wayne County, Michigan Edition Published by: Healthy Living Detroit, Inc. P.O. Box 381250 Clinton Twp, MI 48038 Phone: 313-221-9674 Fax: 586-933-2557 Publisher Mary Anne Demo publisher@NaturalAwakeningsDetroit.com Editorial & Layout Team Karen Sue Adams Kim Cerne Jessica Thieda National Franchise Sales John Voell II NaturalAwkeningsMag.com 239-530-1377
© 2013 by Natural Awakenings. All rights reserved. Although some parts of this publication may be reproduced and reprinted, we require that prior permission be obtained in writing. Natural Awakenings is a free publication distributed locally 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 to find a location near you or if you would like copies placed at your business.
letterfrompublisher Blessings to you for this new year. January can be a great time to reflect on the events of the past year and planning for what is yet to come. Getting those plans written down or recorded in some way is an important step that’s often overlooked, yet it can have a strong effect on the outcome. I heard a football announcer talking about Colin Kaepernick, Quarterback for the San Francisco 49ers, who had written down his goals when he was in the fourth grade. He was very specific about where he would go to college and that he would be a player in the NFL. He even named two teams and said he would play on one of them. The odds that that this would actually happen were slim, but it did happen. As remarkable as that is, when I heard this story I also wondered how many fourth-graders, or people of any age for that matter, would take the time to write these things down so specifically. Probably not many. But maybe our lives would improve if we did What do you want this new year to bring to you? Imagine what your year would look like if, at the end of it, everything you had hoped would happen turned out even better than you expected. Everything: your health, finances, career, relationships, dreams and goals. Take 10 minutes, or more, and daydream about your perfect life. You’ve reached all of your goals. You’re living a fulfilled and joyous life, whatever that looks like and however it makes you happy: financial independence, travel, philanthropy, entrepreneurship, owning a hobby farm, competing in a triathlon. If these things are really important to you, take the time to write them down. It might be good to group them into realistic time frames, and then make sure that they’re measurable. The next step is to brainstorm specific actions that can help move you in the direction of your goals. You might want to turn this into an annual ritual, in which you review your progress each year and then continue to create a personal future that you can get excited about. Natural Awakenings is here to help you on this journey. Each month’s issue is chock-full of interesting information that can introduce new ideas and refresh your memory about old ones. Coming up in April, we will celebrate our fourth anniversary of publishing Natural Awakenings in the Wayne County area, and I’m really excited about all the opportunities that this opens up in our local community. The ripple effects are truly amazing to contemplate. I’d love to hear from you. Please email me at Publisher@ NaturalAwakeningsDetroit.com and tell me how Natural Awakenings has affected your life, and also please share your thoughts and dreams for the future. One of the things that I enjoy most about my work is helping to facilitate connections, and I believe that together we can all work to heal ourselves and our community. To a year of new beginnings, continued joy and your health!
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.
SUBSCRIPTIONS Subscriptions are available by sending $28 (for 12 issues) to the above address.
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Natural Awakenings is printed on recycled newsprint with soybased ink.
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contents 12
6 newsbriefs 12 healthbriefs
14 globalbriefs 15 ecotip
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24 naturalpet
26 healingways
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.
16 HEALTHY LIFESTYLE TWEAKS
16
Surprisingly Simple Changes for Feeling Good by Kathleen Barnes
20 THE ROLE OF PH
30 consciouseating IN WELLNESS by Dr. Carol Ann Fischer, B.S., D.C., N.D. 32 fitbody 33 healthykids
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22 HONORING HEART
INTELLIGENCE IN THE NEW YEAR
36 calendar
by AndreaKandace Lindsey
42 resourceguide
45 classifieds
24 GIVING YOUR PETS
A NEW LEASE ON LIFE WITH STEM CELL THERAPY by Dr. Kristine Butto-Brownlee, DVM, CVA,
advertising & submissions HOW TO ADVERTISE To advertise with Natural Awakenings or request a media kit, please contact us at 313-221-9674 or email Publisher@NaturalAwakeningsDetroit.com Deadline for ads: the 15th of the month.
EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONS Email articles, news items and ideas to: Publisher@NaturalAwakeningsDetroit.com Deadline for editorial: the 10th of the month.
CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS Visit our website to enter calendar items. NaturalAwakeningsDetroit.com You will receive a confirmation email when your event has been approved and posted online, usually within 24 hours. Events submitted by the 15th and meet our criteria will be added to the print magazine as space permits.
REGIONAL MARKETS Advertise your products or services in multiple markets! Natural Awakenings Publishing Corp. is a growing franchised family of locally owned magazines serving communities since 1994. To place your ad in other markets, call 239-449-8309. For franchising opportunities, call 239-530-1377 or visit NaturalAwakeningsMag.com.
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26 BE SUPPLEMENT SAVVY How to Choose Wisely for Optimal Health by James Occhiogrosso
28 THE HEALTH BENEFITS OF TAI CHI
33
by Erin Reas
30 SUSTAINABLE
WEIGHT LOSS Five Secrets for Feeling Like Yourself Again by Judith Fertig
32 STAND UP AND MOVE! How to Sizzle, not Fizzle by Debra Melani
33 ADDRESSING AUTISM Families Have Reasons for Hope
30
by Brita Belli
34 ARE WE LOSING OUR RELIGION? by Roger Mohr
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January 2013
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newsbriefs “Design a Life That You Love!”
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he new year brings a rare and precious gift—a clean slate, a fresh new beginning! A Clean Canvas, A Clear Direction—Design a Life That You Love!, a workshop presented by Kathy Bindu Henning, founder of Present Moment Meditation, is an exciting opportunity to start the year anew, as perhaps never before. It’s a golden chance to stand powerfully in the present, in the midst of your life and all that it is today, and take a look. With a light-hearted approach, clean house! Break free from the cumulative effects that incompletion, lingering intentions and stressfilled routines can have on health, happiness and wellbeing. Let go of the ‘same old ways’ of thinking! Then, with a clean canvas, create a framework "Design a Life That You Love!" that guides, supports and empowers you in every area of life. Step forth with a fresh perspective and design a life that you love, a life that works for you! Fill your life with peace of mind and contentment. Regain your youthful spirit and vitality. Don’t let 2013 slip away—you deserve it! Bring a notebook and pen. Saturday, January 19, 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. $30. Livonia Senior Center, 15218 Farmington Rd. To register call: (734) 674-6965, email: presentmoment@myexcel.com, or visit: www.LivinginthePresentMoment. com
Courses Offered for Careers as Personal Fitness Trainers
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choolcraft College’s Continuing Education and Professional Development Department, in conjunction with World Instructor Training Schools, is offering training for those who wish to become personal fitness trainers. The program can be completed in as little as nine weeks. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, the employment of fitness workers is expecting a national growth rate of 26 percent by 2018. This is due to the increasing number of people who are spending time and money on fitness and more businesses that are recognizing the benefits of health and
A speaker and teacher, Kathy Bindu Henning has studied Meditation and the Art of Self-Discovery for over 35 years.
Christian Simplicity Program Offered for Lent
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t. Paul of the Cross Passionist Retreat and Conference Center will offer a sevenweek program on Christian simplicity. Sessions will be held from 5 to 8 p.m. on Sundays, February 10, 17 and 24, and March 3, 10, 17 and 24. The sessions are part of Lent 4.5: Christian Simplicity, a formation program that seeks to inspire and inform Christian communities on how to use the traditional Lenten disciplines of prayer, fasting and alms-giving to protect God’s creation, embrace Gospel justice and nurture spiritual fulfillment. It offers practical opportunities for people of faith to apply the values of Christian simplicity to their everyday lives. The program also will discuss how to set limits to daily consumption that reflect faith values by taking only what is needed—not wasting or taking in excess. Good stewardship of creation results in a life that is outwardly simple, inwardly rich and socially just. Participants may attend any or all of the sessions, and a soup and salad meal will be provided with each one. Cost $10 per session or $50 for entire series. Location: St. Paul of the Cross Passionist Retreat and Conference Center, 23333 Schoolcraft Rd. (I-96 service drive, just east of Telegraph Rd.), Detroit. For more information and to register, call Marcia Sansotta at 313-535-9563, email MSansotta@Passionist.org or visit Passionist.org/StPauls.
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fitness programs for their employees. Whether students desire a career change or wish to build their own personal knowledge, at the end of this training program they will understand and describe basic anatomy, kinesiology and exercise physiology. The class options allow students to keep earning while learning. Instructors also work hands-on with students throughout their training, sharing their knowledge and skills to give them “real-world” experience. For more information, call 734-4624448 or visit Schoolcraft.edu/Cepd/ FitnessTrainer.
newsbriefs
VeggiePatti Starts Healthy Lifestyle Consulting Business
Downriver Author Publishes Book on Natural Health
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egistered nurse Mindy Wallent, of Southgate , recently published a new book, “True Health Made Easy with Traditional Eating and Homeopathy.” The book covers in detail both the concepts of traditional eating and homeopathy. “Traditional eating is reminiscent of our ancestral dietary principles,” Wallent explains. This includes making bone stock; sprouting and soaking seeds, nuts, grains and legumes; lacto-fermenting fruits, vegetables and drinks; eating organic, free-range meats, dairy and eggs; and avoiding processed foods. Wallent also gives a thorough introduction to homeopathy, which takes into account the whole person when treatment is needed. Instead of treating each symptom as a separate problem, homeopathy takes all symptoms into account and offers one remedy to cover them all. Wallent provides a comprehensive introduction to these concepts and also has chapters dedicated to quick, family-friendly, whole-food recipes; resources for more selfdiscovery from books and the internet; a shopping guide that gives a list of the most commonly needed store items; and a store guide for Downriver patrons. True Health Made Easy with Traditional Eating and Homeopathy is available online at TrueHealthBook.net or locally at The Fighting Fit, 4210 13th St., Wyandotte; Nutrition Unlimited, 14185 Eureka Rd., Southgate; and O’Hara Automotive and Performance, 510 Goddard S., Wyandotte.For more information, visit TrueHealthWithMindy.com and Facebook.com/TrueHealthWithMindy.com .
Advanced Holistic Health Opens in Southgate
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dvanced Holistic Health (AHH), an alternative health service, recently opened in Southgate. AHH is owned and operated by Nicole Ledbetter and Ami Adamski. Ledbetter works with professional athletes and offers massage therapy; she also practices applied kinesiology at Better Health and Nutrition, in Allen Park, where she first began working in the field. Adamski, the practice’s business manager, offers private yoga instruction. AHH has a team of massage therapists who offer regular therapeutic massage, Swedish massage, deep-tissue massage, sports massage, pregnancy massage, reflexology and private yoga. The mission of AHH is to create wellness through awareness and bodywork. In addition to bodywork, AHH also offer nutritional counseling and other holistic therapies. AHH staff members work to provide their clients with the tools necessary to achieve optimal health.
eggiePatti has expanded her services to include healthy lifestyle consulting! “It was a natural progression for my business,” said Patti Radakovich. “I’ve combined my professional experience as a consultant with my personal experiences seeking optimal health and wellness.” Patti will offer everything from helping you find dietary choices that are right for you to completely overhauling your pantry. Services include dietary consulting, health practitioner referrals, chronic and invisible illnesses coping strategies, household chemical and product evaluations, and much more. “Everyone should have access to the knowledge and resources necessary to be able to create a healthy lifestyle,” said VeggiePatti. “Unfortunately, a lot of information is not readily available and sometimes it’s hard to separate the good information from the bad. I’m here to help navigate those waters and provide personalized education that works for each person. When it comes to health, there shouldn’t be a cookie cutter approach. While we all should follow some basic principles, everyone needs to be able to find the exact approach that will work for them.” Patti will also offer consulting services to restaurants and other establishments that wish to accommodate those with special diets, such as gluten-free or vegan, or just to provide healthier options. For more information, please visit VeggiePatti.com.
Location: 13330 Fort St., Southgate. For more information, call 734-309-6908, email Info@ahhl.co or visit AHHL.co. natural awakenings
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newsbriefs Student-Led Anti-Bullying Group Forms at Truman High School
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arry S. Truman High School, in Taylor, announces the Climate Team, a group of students working to implement anti-bullying measures in their school. The student members were selected by school staff and are under the direction of Ms. Kerrie Voorheis. Statistics show that 77 percent of high-school students say they have been or are currently being bullied at school, the group reports. Some cases are so severe that about 160,000 students stay home from school on any given day to avoid being bullied at school. The group members write “We all know the harmful effects that bullying can have, not only because we witness it almost every day at school, but also because we have been bullied ourselves.” The group meets once a month to discuss ways to implement anti-bullying at their school. Their latest project— “New Year, New Attitude!”—will be held January 14 through 18. The goal is for Truman students take part in a different activity each day during lunch that will demonstrate positive messages. The Joe Contreras, Rachel Trombetta, Farah Remeiti, Ellen goals of the days are each different but Bremer, Josh Benson, Sierra Hines, Tiffanie Zoyiopoulos, Selena Azzopardi, Kristen Bailey, Cortez Gardner, Josh all important. For example, one day that Ovares, Ike Ibrahim, Patrick Murray, Roco Polito, Osiris will teach about meeting new people and making new friends, another day will raise Smith, Autumn Wurts, Kayla Fisher, Megan Kaminski awareness about face-to-face bullying, another will raise awareness about cyberbullying and another will demonstrate the importance of respect. Such activities will continue throughout the school year to have the greatest effect on students. The group hopes that their efforts will inspire other schools to follow their example and create anti-bullying teams of their own. For more information, call Truman High School at 734-946-6551 or visit TaylorSchool. net/Truman or Tolerance.org.
Open House at Tecumseh Wellness Center in Honor of World Hypnotism Day
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he Tecumseh Wellness Center will hold a free open house in celebration of the ninth annual World Hypnotism Day. The event will run from 4 to 8 p.m. on January 4. The open house will include presentations about happiness, managing stress and how to make New Year resolutions a reality. Guests can also sign up for minisessions with hypnotists and chair massage. In addition, one guest will receive a complimentary self-hypnosis audio CD and another will receive a full hypnosis program, valued at $300. Many people have learned how to use the power of the mind to improve the quality of their lives. Hypnosis is growing in popularity as more people come to understand its benefits. It is a safe, natural and expedient process for positive change. More than 100 events around the world are planned in honor of World Hypnotism Day. Cost: Free. Location: Tecumseh Wellness Center, 101 W. Chicago Blvd., Tecumseh. For more information, visit TecumsehWellness.com.
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Celebrating Change in the New Year
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ev. Roger Mohr, a changemanagement consultant and minister at First Unitarian Universalist Church, in midtown Detroit, will offer a class entitled “Celebrating Change!” in honor of the new year. The class will be held from 7 to 9 p.m. on January 11. “The new year is a time when we plan to make positive changes in our lives,” says Mohr. “Sometimes it seems like change is almost impossible, no matter how hard we try. But in truth, change is the only constant. The question is not whether we change, but how we can be good at change.” Mohr’s class grew out of a change in his understanding of his clients’ needs, which are often requests for help in reacting to changes in people’s lives. “The idea is to offer classes that help people learn change-management skills before there is a crisis, as well as teaching them how to make forwardlooking, constructive changes in their lives.” For those who want a more pro-active approach to change in their lives, he adds, this class is a good place to start. Cost: $25. Location: Detroit Athletic Club, 241 Madison Ave, Detroit. Dress is business casual (blazers and slacks for men, no denim or T-shirts). Parking is available at the club for $8; street parking may be available. Registration is required. For more information or to register, call 313-262-6175, email Roger@RogerMohr.com or visit RogerMohr.com.
newsbriefs
Nutrition and Overall Wellness Join the Green Smoothie Craze & Improve with Dr. Denise Your Health Acton ave you heard about green smoothies but think they might be a passing fad?
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Have you had friends or family who have started drinking green smoothies but are afraid to try yourself? Now is your chance to learn about green smoothies and how they can improve your health and your life. VeggiePatti is offering another 6-week Green Smoothie Challenge so you can learn how you can have increased energy, improved digestion, a better mood, and overall improved health. In the 6-week challenge you will learn how to add a daily green smoothie to your routine, remove processed foods from your diet, add more nutrient-rich raw foods to your life, become more active, create healthy habits, and sustain your new healthier, lifestyle. The challenge runs from January 9 to February 13.
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enise Acton, N.D., has received advanced training in Nutritional Response Testing through Ulan Nutritional Systems, in Clearwater, Florida. She is one of just 400 wellness practitioners around the country who have received this advanced training. Acton says her mission is to help educate others on the importance of proper nutrition. She also is trained in how to zero in on a weakness of
Classes are held at Total Health Foods in Wyandotte on Wednesday nights from 6:30 to 8 pm. Cost of the 6-week course is $90. For more info, please visit VeggiePatti.com, email VeggiePatti@gmail.com or call 734-246-1208.
Pet Communication Offered as Alternative Veterinary Tool
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etra the Pet Communicator has been working with medically-challenged and terminally ill animals for many years. She has recently begun working with veterinarians to help them with some of their tougher cases, including behavioral and other issues. “I often get referrals for animals with separation anxiety, urination/marking issues, chronic pain, or general malaise. In behavioral cases, I am able to work with the animals to try to identify the root source of the problem. In other cases, I can often point veterinarians toward a particular treatment or area of concern,” said Petra. “Is it 100% effective? No, but neither is any other treatment or technique out there. What I do is unique and offers the pet owner a cheaper, less invasive option in order to help improve their pet’s quality of life.” “Being a pet communicator is not the same as being a pet psychic,” explains Petra. “I use shamanic techniques, an ancient spiritual practice, to communicate with animals and to help offer diagnosis and healing options.” Petra is also able to help owners determine when their animal is ready to let go and move on. For more information, please visit facebook.com/petra4pets or email petra4pets@ gmail.com.
the body’s organs, glands or systems and effectively bring about healing through a specially designed, clinical nutrition system. Acton’s programs are individualized for each client. “Today’s world is filled with health threats,” Acton says. “Increased exposure to toxins, poor-quality, nutrient-deficient foods, high stress and little exercise are all part of the modern lifestyle. The result is a rapidly growing number of health problems, including increasing frequency of diabetes, obesity, heart disease and cancers. Natural health and prevention are the solutions to ill health today.” An acupuncturist as well, Acton received her training at the Midwest College of Oriental Medicine. She sees patients at Broad Chiropractic Clinic, in Canton, and at her clinic in the Ann Arbor area. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 734-645-4434 or visit DrDsNaturesRemedies.com.
natural awakenings
January 2013
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newsbriefs Youth Exchange Students in Need of Host Families
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otary International is seeking those interested in being host families for Youth Exchange students. Hosting aYouth Exchange student from another country allows a host family to become familiar with another culture and provides the opportunity to share a young student’s hopes and ambitions. Youth Exchange students come from all over the world. They usually stay with three to four host families in the course of one year, and stay with each host family for approximately three to four months. Host families provide room and board. They also supervise the student, involve him or her in family activities and chores and enrich the exchange experience by including the student in family, community and cultural activities. Host families are not compensated financially. The program is run entirely by dedicated volunteers, which helps keep costs low. Youth Exchange is widely known to enrich the lives of the students and every member of the host families. For more information about local opportunities to host Youth Exchange students, call Noel Jackson at 734-673-7304 or visit Rotary.org.
Kicking the Sugar Habit with Renee Heigel
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etter Health is sponsoring Renee Heigel, a Wixom-based, board-certified holistic health practitioner with a focus on functional nutrition, who will offer a free presentation about overcoming sugar addictions. The event will be held four times: at 11 a.m. on January 19, in the new Southgate store; at 2 p.m. on January 19, in Better Health - Novi; at 11 a.m. on January 26, in Better Health - Grosse Pointe; and at 2 p.m. on January 26, in Better Health - Bloomfield Hills. “This is about your addiction to sugar,” Heigel says. “I know you’re concerned you can’t keep this up and you silently wonder if your health issues could be related to your sweet tooth and occasional soda. You wonder whether you can quit sugar and have long-term success. You don’t want to do something radical and you don’t want to live in deprivation either. You want to enjoy life, let go of cravings and finally welcome in healthier habits and understand your body. I can show you how with this 60-minute chat with Q&A at the end.” Food samples will be included. Founder of the popular programs Love Yourself Naked and Local Nourish Flourish, Heigel is a leading holistic health counselor, coach, speaker, local food advocate, mother and cook. Sponsored by Betther Health, locations and telephone numbers: 17825 Eureka Rd., Southgate, 734-3741973; 42875 Grand River Ave., Novi, 248-735-8100; 19850 Mack, Grosse Pointe, 313-885-5000; 2053 S. Telegraph Rd., Bloomfield Hills, 248-334-9500. For more information, visit ReneeHeigel.com.
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Emotional Body Tuning Phoenix Honka, a shaman practitioner based in Plymouth, is offering emotional body tuning to help people transform their lives. Her private sessions are offered by appointment only. “The subtle energetic shift of emotional body tuning allows you to get rid of old habits, past thoughts and limited conditioning,” says Honka, who is also a Reiki master and reconnective healer. “This statement may sound revolutionary if you were taught, like most of us, that it takes time to overcome conditioned thought. But what if you suspend disbelief and stepped into an instantaneous change of awakened mind?” Honka’s process of helping people achieve “zero point tranquility” is conducted in one-on-one sessions. “This simple yet astoundingly effective communication with self provides the balanced understanding that we need to change for good,” she says. “You can learn to emotionally ‘tune yourself up’ in all present moments of your ‘now’ existence.” For more information or to make an appointment, call 248-880-6320, email Honka.Phoenix@gmail.com or visit SabotageCorrection.com.
newsbriefs Free Showing of Film PlanEat in Dearborn Heights
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he Friends of the Dearborn Animal Shelter and the Caroline Kennedy Library are co-hosting a free showing of the film PlanEat, at the library, in Dearborn Heights. The film will be shown from 6:30 to 8 p.m. on January 22. Against a backdrop of colorful and delicious food grown by organic farmers and prepared in the kitchens of world-famous chefs, PlanEat brings together the ground-breaking and lifelong studies of three prominent scientists: Dr. T. Colin Campbell, author of The China Study; Dr. Caldwell Esselstyn, heartdisease specialist; and Professor Gidon Eshel, researcher on how food choices contribute to global warming, land use and oceanic dead zones. The film inspires viewers to make the right food choices, which can dramatically reduce the risk of heart disease and cancer, protect the environment and make the planet sustainable while celebrating the joys of food. Sir Paul McCartney wrote of the film, “Those of us here at Meat-Free Monday fully support the efforts made by the makers of PlanEat, which we hope will alert people to the dangers of some of our current practices.” The film’s tagline is: “Nothing changes the planet as much as the way we eat.” The Friends of the Dearborn Animal Shelter will provide vegan refreshments.
The tutor training workshops are offered at no cost; the usual fee of $75 is being paid by the grants. There are workshops throughout the year; the schedule is published in Natural Awakenings. Since organizing in 1984, ProLiteracy Detroit has trained more than 10,000 volunteer tutors and assisted more than 20,000 learners. Its mission statement reads: “Every resident of metro Detroit should have the opportunity to be an informed citizen, a supportive and involved parent, a viable employee and a lifelong learner.” Cost: Free. For more information, call 313-872-7720 or visit ProLiteracyDetroit.org or Pro-Literacy Detroit on Facebook.
Cost: Free. Location: Caroline Kennedy Library, 24590 George St., Dearborn Heights. For more information, call 313-791-3800 or visit dhcl.MichLibrary.org/.
Pro-Literacy Detroit Is Recruiting 500 Volunteer Tutors
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ro-Literacy Detroit, which provides free literacy tutorial services to residents of metro Detroit, has received grants from the Detroit Rotary Foundation, The General Motors Foundation and Fifth Third Bank to train 500 volunteer tutors and match them with 500 people, age 16 and older, who need to improve their reading skills. The organization is currently seeking volunteer tutors to meet this need. Volunteer tutors are required to attend a 16-hour basic literacy tutor training workshop and orientation. Upon completion of the workshop, each volunteer tutor receives a certificate and is matched with an adult learner. If the volunteer tutor leaves the local community, the certificate entitles him or her to tutor for any literacy organization in the United States. Each volunteer tutor is asked to meet with a learner for two hours, once a week, in a public place—such as a public library, community center or church — near their home, at a convenient time. Volunteers are asked to tutor for at least one year. Throughout the process, both the volunteer tutor and learner are supported by Pro-Literacy Detroit staff. natural awakenings
January 2013
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healthbriefs
Red Meat Raises a Red Flag
S
teak is still one of America’s favorite meals, but regular consumption of red meat products comes at a high cost for health. In a recent large study, Harvard School of Public Health (HSPH) researchers found red meat to be causally associated with mortality, including from cardiovascular disease and cancer. Senior author Frank Hu, professor of nutrition and epidemiology at HSPH, and his team observed 37,698 men from the HSPH Health Professionals FollowUp Study for up to 22 years and 83,644 women from the National Institutes of Health Nurses’ Health Study for up to 28 years, all of whom were free of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and cancer at the beginning of the study. The researchers assessed diets via questionnaires every four years and documented a combined 23,926 deaths in the two studies, of which 5,910 were from CVD and 9,464 from cancer. Their evaluation revealed that one daily serving of unprocessed red meat (about the size of a deck of cards) was associated with a 13 percent increased risk of earlier mortality, and one daily serving of processed red meat (one hot dog or two slices of bacon) with a 20 percent increased risk. Red meat and related products contain heme (meat-based) iron, saturated fat, sodium and nitrites, as well as carcinogens formed during cooking. The researchers recommend turning to healthier protein sources instead, like fish, poultry, nuts, legumes and whole grains.
Black Pepper Fights Fat
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simple, widely available spice and kitchen staple may help us trim our waistlines. New research published in the American Chemical Society’s Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry gives the nod to black pepper. The study provides evidence of a long-sought explanation for the beneficial, fat-fighting effects of the common seasoning. Piperine, the pungent-tasting substance that gives black pepper its characteristic taste, helps block the formation of new fat cells.
Wisdom from Water
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imply drinking a glass of water can prompt better choices at the dinner table, concludes new research by T. Bettina Cornwell, Ph.D., of the University of Oregon, and Anna R. McAlister, Ph.D., of Michigan State University. In separate studies, young adults and children were tested according to their food and beverage choices. When the participants were served a soda, they selected foods that tended to be more salty and calorie-dense. However, when the provided beverage was water, participants ate more raw vegetables.
A GMO-FREE GROCERY LIST
A
ccording to a recent article published in Green American magazine, 93 percent of Americans believe that genetically modified foods should be labeled. However, only USDA-certified organic products cannot intentionally contain genetically modified organisms (GMO), so identifying GMO foods and products in a typical U.S. grocery store is difficult. The following information can help. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) confirms that large percentages of the nation’s crops were genetically modified in 2011: 94 percent of conventional soy and soy products; 90 percent of cottonseed, a common ingredient in margarine, salad dressings and oils; and 88 percent of corn, contained in breakfast cereals, corn flour products such as chips and tortillas, high-fructose corn syrup, soups and condiments. More than 90 percent of the U.S. canola crop also is now genetically modified. The Independent, one of England’s leading newspapers, reported in 1999 that the artificial sweetener aspartame has been made with genetically modified bacteria since 1965. Aspartame, inconclusively linked with numerous health risks, is present in more than 6,000 products, including diet sodas. Two other ubiquitous artificial sweeteners, Nutrasweet and Equal, also contain aspartame. The USDA further lists 95 percent of the 2009 U.S. sugar beet crop, used to produce conventional sugar, as genetically modified. NonGMO alternative sweeteners include pure cane sugar and honey from organic farms. Source: GreenAmerica.org
12 Wayne County Edition
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Supplementation Cuts Colon Cancer Risk
A
diet enhanced with multivitamin and mineral supplements may dramatically lower the risk of developing precancerous colon cancer lesions, according to research published in the Canadian Journal of Physiology and Pharmacology. Nearly 150,000 men and women in the United States are diagnosed with this second-most common form of cancer each year. In the study, rats were fed a high-fat (20 percent) diet for 32 weeks. Those fed a high-fat, low-fiber diet and also exposed to a carcinogen, developed precancerous lesions of the colon. The animals that underwent a similar diet and treatment, but also received daily vitamin and mineral supplements, showed an 84 percent reduction in the formation of precancerous lesions and did not develop tumors.
GROW
Your Business
FRYING PAN FAUX PAS
F
ried foods may please the palate, but cooking them in the wrong medium, such as sunflower oil, can present a health risk. Researchers from the University of the Basque Country, in North Spain, have discovered that organic aldehyde compounds become toxic when heated. These chemicals, previously linked with some types of cancer and neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s, are generated by the degradation of fatty acids in sunflower and other oils high in polyunsaturated fats, and some remain in food after frying. Oils with higher concentrations of monounsaturated fats, such as olive, peanut or coconut, are less worrisome if frying is the only cooking option.
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globalbriefs News and resources to inspire concerned citizens to work together in building a healthier, stronger society that benefits all.
Cut Abuse
Government Steps In to Curb Greenwashing The U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has issued updated green marketing guidelines intended to stop advertisers from making deceptive or unqualified claims about products being environmentally beneficial or eco-friendly, called “greenwashing”. The FTC said that few products deliver the far-reaching environmental benefits that consumers associate with such claims, and they are nearly impossible to substantiate. The revision is the first since 1998, when phrases like “carbon footprint” and “renewable energy” were relatively new. Using input from consumers and industry groups, new sections address the use of carbon offsets, “green” certifications and seals, and renewable energy and renewable materials claims. Marketers are warned not to make broad, unqualified assertions that their products are environmentally benign or eco-friendly. Arthur Weissman, president and CEO of Green Seal Inc., a nonprofit environmental certification organization based in Washington, D.C., says, “We hope that there will be enforcement to help rid the marketplace of the many less-than-credible seals and greenwashing that exist.” The new guidelines are not rules or regulations, but general principles that describe the types of environmental claims the FTC may find deceptive. They do not address use of the terms “sustainable”, “natural” and “organic”. Source: The Christian Science Monitor
Shell Game
Turtles Facing Extinction Get Help The Turtle Survival Alliance Foundation (TSA) is opening a facility to house some of the world’s most endangered freshwater turtles and tortoises near Charleston, South Carolina. The 50-acre Turtle Survival Center will maintain living groups, or assurance colonies, of many species facing an uncertain future in the wild. The center will house 20 species of freshwater turtles and tortoises ranked “critically endangered” by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature. Nine are also on the Turtle Conservation Coalition list of the world’s most endangered tortoises and freshwater turtles. According to TSA President Rick Hudson, “No group of animals is under greater threat or faces a higher risk of extinction than freshwater turtles and tortoises.” The center will focus on species that have little chance of being recovered in nature because of habitat loss and intensive hunting pressures. Some species have undergone such dramatic declines that without intervention, their extinction is imminent. It’s hoped that offspring born at the center will eventually repopulate their ancestral habitats. Contribute to the TSA Turtle Survival Center capital campaign to help at TurtleSurvival.org.
14 Wayne County Edition
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Dirty Pool
Great Lakes Under Siege by Global Warming Don Scavia, director of the University of Michigan Graham Sustainability Institute, stated in a regional leaders’ conference that climate change is aggravating the effects of devastating algae blooms in the Great Lakes by increasing the intensity of spring rains that wash phosphorus into the water. Rampant algae levels degrade water quality because as algae decompose, oxygen levels can drop low enough to kill fish. After the United States and Canada signed the initial Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement in 1972, many local governments banned detergents containing phosphorus and the algae problem faded, but it has returned in the past decade. Analysts note that while the practice of planting crops without plowing the ground may help prevent erosion, it leaves high concentrations of fertilizer phosphorus in the upper layers of soil, where it easily runs off into waterways. A task force of academic and government experts has recommended more than 50 helpful practices, including providing funding and technical assistance for phosphorus reduction projects; authorizing state regulators to require pollution reduction measures in stressed watersheds; and working with farmers and equipment manufacturers to develop fertilizer application methods that avoid runoff. Source: EarthKnowledge.net
ecotip Easy Does It
Best Snow Removal Tips For homeowners in colder regions, winter calls for snow removal. Driveways and walks need to be cleaned off for function and safety with as much ease as possible. Here are some tips from OldHouseWeb.com that can help. Clear the snow early in the day and then let the sun’s radiant heat warm the surface to keep it safe and dry. Be kind to yourself—shovel before the snow reaches more than a few inches high. Removing relatively low layers several times is less taxing on the body than waiting and trying to deal later with a higher pile from a major storm. Make sure to bend at the knees and keep the back as vertically straight as possible when shoveling, to avoid back strain. If opting for a snow blower, an electric machine is cleaner, quieter and easier to maintain, especially if it has solar panels. For more power, consider a diesel-
powered unit that uses bio-diesel fuel. As a step up from old-fashioned fossil fuel machines, Honda makes a hybrid model with emissions 30 percent lower than Environmental Protection Agency Phase 2 standards. Putting down some sand or black wood ash on dry surfaces will effect more traction during snow removal, plus help melt and evaporate some snowflakes when they land. A green option is EcoTraction, made by Earth Innovations from hydrothermal volcanic materials that absorb water. Sand should be used sparingly because it can clog local storm drains and create excess silt in waterways. When considering ice-melting agents, be careful and wise. Many products claim to be green or ecofriendly, but contain harmful chlorides or acetates. Salt is bad for pets, grass, plants and vehicles, and will pollute local waterways. Products containing acetates are generally less corrosive than salts, but recent research has shown that potassium acetate, often used at airports, is toxic to marine life.
People Power
Modified Bicycles Recycle Electronic Waste Harvard graduate Rachel Field, 22, has invented the Bicyclean device, a contender for an international James Dyson Award recognizing the next generation of design engineers. The Bicyclean helps people in Third World countries separate valuable recyclable materials from the mountains of refrigerators, computers, cell phones and other electronic e-waste dumped in their “backyards” by richer nations. She aims to show that the needlessly harmful process can be made healthier, using simple bicycle technology that can be implemented virtually anywhere. Her solution is to stand up a bike in the normal position, but with the back wheel removed and replaced with an enclosed, pedal-powered, grinder-and-separation system. Pushing bits of circuit board down an attached chute onto a grinding mill of coarse cement ejects crushed e-waste fragments. Magnets collect the ferrous metals, and a battery-powered electromagnetic current pushes away non-ferrous metals. The device is more sustainable, plus it deposits and emits much less pollution into nearby waterways and air than other methods.
natural awakenings
January 2013
15
Healthy Lifestyle Tweaks Surprisingly Simple Changes for Feeling Good by Kathleen Barnes
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ll of us have heard the admonition: “Eat lots of veggies and exercise daily and you’ll live a long, healthy life.” There’s no question this advice is sound, but what about other helpfully healthy lifestyle adjustments we can make? Experts attest that doing easy things, such as going braless, walking barefoot or using a plug-in model instead of a cordless phone can all support wellness. Results range from stress relief to prevention of cancer, heart disease and other ailments often associated with aging. “Making some of the simplest changes can have far-reaching positive effects on your health,” contends Frank King, a doctor of chiropractic and naturopathic medicine, president of King Bio Natural Medicine, in Asheville, North Carolina, and author of The Healing Revolution. “When we consider the huge negative effects shadowing the field of prescription drugs, it is just good sense to try things foundational to our health that are
16 Wayne County Edition
natural, inexpensive, effective and free of problematic side effects.”
Muscle Testing
“The human body is an excellent lie detector. It is the world’s most sophisticated laboratory, with more wisdom than all medical professionals put together,” says King. His favorite technique is to tap into the body’s vast wisdom using applied kinesiology, or muscle testing. “The principal is simple. When you are telling a truth or when something is good for the body, whether you are conscious of it or not, your body loosens up. When you are telling a lie or the body is rejecting something, your body tightens.” Many holistic practitioners use applied kinesiology as a diagnostic tool. An easy way to use muscle testing at home is to bend forward, fingers stretching toward the toes. Set a baseline truth by saying out loud, “My name is _______,” and notice the length of the stretch. Then utter an untruth, like calling
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yourself by a different name. Most people will find their range of motion is noticeably limited in the event of an untruth or something else that is not helpful. A practical solution: Apply this technique in making any choice related to personal health.
Control Electronic Pollution Turn away from using cordless phones and turn off the Wi-Fi. Keep cell phones out of pockets and purses. Move the TV out of the bedroom. These devices emit enormous amounts of radiation, disturbing our sleep patterns, thickening our blood and causing inflammation and a number of associated diseases, according to Dr. Stephen Sinatra, an integrative cardiologist and co-author of The Great Cholesterol Myth. Recent findings of Sinatra’s research team at the University of California-Irvine, published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, confirm that physical contact with the Earth naturally thins blood. “Grounding appears to be one of the simplest and yet most profound interventions for helping reduce cardiovascular risk and cardiovascular events,” the researchers concluded. A recent study of animals by the Bioelectromagnetics Laboratory at Zhejiang University School of Medicine-Hangzhou, in China, shows that exposure to radio and electromagnetic frequencies (EMF) like those found in cell phones can alter some genes. An Indian study by the Bioelectromagnetic Laboratory at Jawaharlal Nehru University-New Delhi suggests that EMF exposure increases the production of free radicals in animal brains, which can lead to inflammation, cancer, heart disease and other serious diseases. Swiss research published in the journal Somnologie by University of Bern scientists shows a clear connection between radio frequencies (RF) and sleep disturbances. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) admits a possible link between extensive cell phone use and exposure to RF waves and brain cancer. Sinatra calls Wi-Fi signals “the new coronary risk factor” and warns, “Be aware that if you are on a computer at home on Wi-Fi, that is toxic to
your body.” A practical solution: Use an ethernet cable to connect computers rather than wireless; switch to an old-fashioned plug-in phone with a handset attached; and stay three feet away from cell phones—never wear them. Sinatra says his research shows that men that put a cell phone in a pocket experience a reduction in testosterone within four hours.
Change Footwear In addition to unplugging from potentially harmful devices, Sinatra recommends plugging into Earth’s healing energies. “Our ancestors walked barefoot and slept on the ground. They were connected to Earth’s electrical energies that kept them balanced and healthy,” explains the co-author of Earthing. New research from the University of California-Irvine published in the Journal of Environ-
ment and Public Health explains how modern lifestyles tend to separate us from the healing electrical energies of the Earth. Because we rarely walk barefoot or sleep on the ground and most people wear rubber-soled shoes that break the currents, few are benefitting from this wealth of easily accessed healing energies that benefit the heart, brain, muscles and nervous and immune systems. “Practically no one has the slightest notion of an electrical or energetic connection between his or her body and the Earth,” explains Sinatra. “The ground provides a subtle electric signal that governs the intricate mechanisms that help maintain health and make our bodies work, just like plugging a light into a power socket.” Taken together, the research points to many health benefits gained by staying connected with our home planet, which Sinatra reports in Earthing, including reduced
Ditch Antiperspirant Along with the Bra Most commercial antiperspirant deodorants contain aluminum compounds, which have estrogen-like properties. Because estrogen imbalances can promote the growth of breast cancer tissue, aluminum may have the same effect when absorbed through the skin. Source: National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health inflammation, relief from chronic pain muscle tension and headaches, lower blood pressure and tempered hormonal swings. As a practical solution, Sinatra prescribes taking a little “vitamin G” (for grounding) every day: Walk barefoot as much as possible. Sit or lie on the ground with as much skin as possible in contact with living things such as grass, trees, pine needles or earth.
natural awakenings
January 2013
17
Calendar A wonderful resource for filling your workshops, seminars and other events.
Simple Stress Relief Resets Brain Function Using the index fingers, find two small knobs, usually about an inch above the midpoint of the eyebrows, known as the neurovascular reflex points. Rest fingers very lightly on these points until a pulse is felt. It may take several minutes. Be patient. Mentally review a current stressor using all the senses; see, feel, smell, hear and taste it. Source: Dr. Frank King, president, King Bio Natural Medicine, Asheville, NC During the winter, touch grounded electrical outlets or metal plumbing pipes. Also, wear comfortable, leathersoled shoes without socks indoors and out, because leather is an excellent conductor of Earth’s energies.
Ditch the Bra “Breast cancer is caused by bras,” medical anthropologist Sydney Ross Singer states unequivocally. He is co-author of Dressed to Kill, with Soma Grismaijer, and director of the In-
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stitute for the Study of Culturogenic Disease, in Pahoa, Hawaii. “Bras are designed to change the shape of a woman’s breasts to a culturally approved image,” remarks Singer. “But bras also create a pressure band between the breast and the lymph nodes, causing inflammation and swelling, and causing lymph to back up, restricting the body’s natural detoxification system.” “Cancer-causing toxins are delivered to the breast tissue by the bloodstream and are kept there by the bra,” he explains, likening the toxins to bullets. “The bra holds them in place, pointed directly at the breasts.” Singer’s research, conducted in the early 1990s, showed that women that wore bras 24/7 had a breast cancer risk 125 times that of women that never wore bras. Yet Singer’s findings have been largely dismissed by the medical community, and bra manufacturers still offer few wire-free styles. A Harvard School of Public Health study, published in the European Journal of Cancer Care in 1991, also discovered that bra-free women had a lower rate of breast cancer. Because the results were not central to the focus of the university’s research at the time, there’s been no follow-up. A practical solution: Wear a bra as little as possible. If it is sometimes necessary, wear one without wires, and engage in regular breast massage. This can be enjoyable and is an ideal partner activity.
Hum Often Another Singer assertion is that simply humming “mmmmmmmmm” a couple of minutes a day can stimulate the thyroid and increase the production of thyroid hormones of those with an underactive thyroid. The butterfly-shaped gland wraps around the larynx, or voice box, which Singer contends is part of nature’s elegant design, meant to be stimulated by sound. The Cleveland Clinic reports that 10 percent of the U.S. population age 65 and over suffers from hypothyroidism, with
Supplement Cocktail Counters Radiation Coenzyme Q10 – 100-200 mg a day Melatonin – 1-5 mg a day Nattokinase enzyme – 50 mg a day Vitamin C – 100 mg a day
the rate in the general population between 1 and 2 percent. The condition is a special problem for women encountering perimenopause or menopause, when hormone levels can fluctuate wildly. “The medical community has considered the effect of the thyroid on the voice but not the vibratory effect of vocalization on thyroid function,” says Singer. “It stands to reason that humming, singing or quietly talking is preferred to the overstimulation of shouting or yelling.”
Adopt a Pet “Animals are among our best teachers,” says Dr. Carol Roberts, the author of Good Medicine: A Return to Common Sense, who teaches holistic care at the University of South Florida’s Morsani College of Medicine. “Animal companions give us so much more than they ask for and live in a state of unconditional, open-hearted love.” Roberts notes numerous studies that show the simple presence of a loving animal can lower our blood pressure and slow the heart rate. A CDC heart study, for example, showed subjects that had owned a cat at any time were 40 percent less likely to die of a heart attack. Japanese researchers from Azabu University, in Kanagawa-ken, found that dog owners experienced a spike in oxytocin—a neurotransmitter that helps us cope with stress—by simply meeting their pet’s gaze. While people widely recognize that walking the dog is great exercise, other loving interactions with our pets support happiness and health, as well.
Exercise Artistic Skills
Giving oneself artistic license is also healthy, advises Roberts. “Just bring a little beauty into your life, whether it’s choosing which clothing and accessories to wear, arranging a vase of table flowers or dancing to favorite music. Just do something creative every day.” Energy therapists maintain that exposure to creative activities improves circulation to the brain and
thyroid; on a psychological level, it also works to improve self-confidence and self-expression. A recent study at the University of Colorado published in the journal Palliative & Supportive Care confirmed that individual art therapy is useful in supporting cancer patients during chemotherapy. Fifty-one of the 54 participants said it helped them to relax, talk about their situation or explore and express emotions to their benefit. Roberts adds, “It’s even better if you join a group engaged in a creative activity. I think people in general do better when we come together to create something beautiful.” These experts’ prescriptions for such simple lifestyle changes have shown how commonsense adjustments in everyday living can have profound, health-altering results, with only good after effects. Kathleen Barnes is a natural health advocate, author and publisher. Among her many books is The Super Simple HCG Diet (Square One). Connect at KathleenBarnes.com.
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The Role of pH in Wellness by Dr. Carol Ann Fischer, B.S., D.C., N.D.
T
he acid-alkaline balance of a body refers to the chemistry of body fluids and tissues as measured by pH. Free radicals are converted into harmless water and oxygen when the body is alkaline, which maintains energy and vitality. The abbreviation pH stands for the potential of hydrogen, or the power of hydrogen. The more hydrogen ions there are in a solution, the more acidic the solution will be. The full pH scale ranges from 0 to 14; the middle pH, 7, is neutral. The pH below 7 is acidic; above it is alkaline. In The Textbook of Medical Physiology, Arthur Guyton, M.D., writes: “The cells of a healthy body are alkaline while the cells of a diseased body are below a pH of 7.0. The more acidic the cell, the sicker we become. If the body cannot alkalize the cells they will become acidic and thus, disease sets in. Most cells will die in the 3.5 pH range. Our bodies produce acid as a bi-product of normal metabolism. Since our bodies do not manufacture alkalinity, we must supply the alkalinity from an outside source to keep us from becoming acidic and dying.� The outside source for maintaining alkalinity is our diet. A blood pH of a healthy body is slightly alkaline, measuring 7.365. This pH is the optimal environment for healthy cellular function. At this pH the cells are in homeostasis where they are balanced. Cells receive nourishment and release waste with ease. Healthy cells thrive on an alkaline, oxygen-rich, plantbased diet, while unhealthy cells, viruses, bacteria, parasites and cancer hate oxygen. These cells prefer an acidic diet, high in animal products, processed and refined foods, GMO food and synthetic chemicals, along with an acid, low-oxygen environment. Otto Wharburg, a German medical doctor, started his research on acid-alkaline imbalance in the 1920s and won the Nobel Prize in 1931 for discovering that cancer grows in oxygen-deprived, acidic tissue. With a normal blood pH, red blood cells are spaced apart, allowing them to function optimally. Below a pH of 7.365, the red blood cells stick together, limiting their ability to carry oxygen. The less oxygen, the more acidic the pH of the body fluid becomes, resulting in the production of disease from free radicals. A free radical is an atom that has lost an electron. In an effort to get its electron back, the atom steals from other elements in the body. The element it steals from becomes seriously damaged and ultimately diseased. The body normally produces free radicals as by-products of normal metabolism. Lactic acid is produced in muscles by exercise, while hydrochloric acid is produced to digest food. Free radicals are also produced when cells in the body burn oxygen to produce energy. We cannot avoid free radicals. They are created internally by normal aerobic respiration and metabolism, and also by inflammation. Inflammation and free radicals are also produced by an acidic diet high in sugar, refined foods and drinks, GMO foods and animal protein, with minimal intake of fresh fruits and
20 Wayne County Edition
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vegetables and insufficient water. For example, coffee has a pH of 4, while pop has a pH of 2.5. Guyton states that it takes 20 eight-ounce glasses of water to neutralize one eight-ounce glass of pop. Free radicals are created when the body fluid becomes less alkaline and more acidic. Environmental toxins affect pH as well. There are chemicals in our homes, offices and schools, as well as in our food, water, soil and air. The Environmental Working Group also reports that toxins from environmental pollution have been detected in blood samples taken from newborn babies. Toxins, our hectic lifestyle, fast foods, cigarettes, pop and alcohol consumption, and high levels of emotional stress contribute to increased levels of free radicals. Oxidative stress occurs when the body produces free radicals in greater quantity than it can successfully remove them. This is the stress that ages the body, causes wrinkles and weakens the body, ultimately resulting in cancer and disease. There are simple ways to reduce free-radical production and oxidative stress. We can start by boosting the daily diet with more plant-based, green-food supplements that are alkaline, including barley grass, chlorella, spirulina and chlorophyll. We can also add alkaline-rich vegetables such as carrots, cauliflower, broccoli, spinach, parsley and kale, along with fruits such as blueberries, raspberries, strawberries, blackberries, plums, pears and apples. In addition, we can make green drinks by blending live greens and fresh fruits in a blender and adding some plant-based protein powder or soaked almonds. We can avoid processed and GMO foods. To reduce toxins in our daily life, we can limit the use of chemical-laden personal-care, laundry and cleaning products. The body takes alkaline minerals from healthy tissues, and even bone when needed, to neutralize the dietary acid to maintain a balanced pH, creating mineral deficiencies. Some typical signs of nutrient deficiency include memory loss, hyperactivity, restlessness, confusion, depression,
irritability, poor coordination, insomnia, fatigue and nervousness. Other symptoms of a mineral deficiency are a decrease in immune function, acid reflux and joint pain. Increasing the intake of alkaline minerals, such as calcium and magnesium, is beneficial. Magnesium aids the body in energy production, proper nerve and heart function, muscle relaxation and bone formation in combination with calcium. Calcium is most known for its facilitation of nutrients across cell membranes, stimulation of the immune system, its involvement in muscle contraction, heart function, enzyme and hormone production, nervecell communication, and bone building. Magnesium-rich foods include bran, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, cashews, pine nuts, cocoa powder and molasses. Add these to calcium rich foods, cheese and dairy products, green leafy vegetables, and herring. Consume foods rich in both minerals by eating sesame seeds, flax seeds, Brazil nuts and almonds. Many dried herbs contain both calcium and magnesium, as well as other nutrients. Avoid drinking distilled and reverse osmosis waters that rob the body of alkaline minerals. Healthy water should be filtered, but also contain alkaline minerals such as calcium and magnesium in their naturally occurring state. The body loses half its weight in ounces of water through perspiration and elimination daily. Instead of drinking several glasses of water a day, drink a minimum of several liters. The accumulated effects of stress, pollution and depleted nutrients results in the formation of an abundance of free radicals, increased oxidative stress and an alteration of pH, which affects health and wellness. The antidote is to improve dietary habits, increase nutritional intake of alkaline minerals, reduce toxic exposure and change the type and quantity of water consumed. Carol Ann Fischer, D.C., N.D., owns TLC Holistic Wellness, located at 31580 Schoolcraft Rd., Livonia. She is a chiropractor, wellness consultant and cellular hydration specialist. For more information, including a list of free public workshops on health topics, call 734-664-0339 or visit TLCHolisticWellness.com.
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22 Wayne County Edition
Energetics Ad.indd 1
T
he first days of the new year mark a time for big celebration. In certain majestic cultures, they celebrated the first 15 days of the start of the year. They eliminated stagnated chi, or heart intelligence, from the past, so they could welcome more wealth, prosperity and longevity. Our wise ancient ancestors understood that everything worked in perfect order. They learned that all planets revolve in space and harmony. They honored the laws of nature, seasons, cycles, interconnectedness and interdependency of all living beings. It has been said that when those ancestors found things to be beyond their mental comprehension, they followed and trusted their heart intelligence, or chi, within. How are we cultivating and trusting our heart’s intelligence within? In recent years we have been affected by the economy and overwhelmed by busyness. We have been exposed to electrical, chemical, biological, emotional, psychological and spiritual stress. Offending or ignoring our own chi, or intelligence, has become routine. When we engage in these patterns, the meridians and cells of our bodies becomes blocked. To move forward, we much change the daily routine and include inward, heart-centered reflection. This will lead each of us to a personal revolution. A good way to start is by releasing what we no longer need. We can celebrate our heart intelligence this year by eliminating stagnant energy. We can
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learn new ways to cleanse our minds, bodies, emotions and energy. If we are willing to dive deep into ourselves—through such means as cleansing, prayer, love, service, ritual, yoga, meditation and chanting—we will connect with our heart intelligence and the divine. To welcome the new year, here are some simple yet profound ways of honoring the body, heart, spirit and mind for the first 15 days:
Help Others Read to Succeed We are seeking volunteers to tutor reading students
• Clear any clutter in our lives, including clutter in our cars and especially our homes. Are there any physical objects that are no longer needed? We can give thanks for the item and share it with a loved one or local charity.
Pro-Literacy Detroit believes everyone should have the opportunity to be an informed citizen, a supportive and involved parent, a viable employee, and a lifelong learner.
— Attend one of our workshops —
• Spend time with nature. The weather is cold, so we must bundle up!
January 2013 • Basic Literacy Workshop Training Saturday, January 12, 2013 9:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Saturday, January 19, 2013 9:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
• Breathe deeply and listen to our heartbeat. • Discover silence, even if it’s just for a few moments.
February 2013 • Basic Literacy Workshop Training Saturday, February 9, 2013 9:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Saturday, February 16, 2013 9:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
• Build a sacred altar in the home. • Allow for more rest.
Workshop fees are paid by the Detroit Rotary Club
Workshops are held at the
• Hold and appreciate loved ones as if it were our last time together.
Pro-Literacy Detroit Administrative Office 7375 Woodward Avenue Suite 2800 • Detroit, MI 48202
• Eat live, succulent food.
313.872.7720 www.ProLiteracyDetroit.org
READ • EMPOWER • SUCCEED After engaging in this new approach to our lives, we can reevaluate our resolutions. What energies will we allow to revolve around us? When we respect and appreciate our energy, our heart intelligence will guide us to our own gifts, which continue to be given throughout the new year. I Wish All of You a Beautiful &Fresh Golden Year. Enter into the Golden Gates @ Kandascent Temple of Love AndreaKandace Lindsey is a wellness practitioner who specializes in energy medicine and ancient therapies for physical, spiritual, mental and emotional health. She practices at the Kandascent Temple of Love, in Detroit. For more information, call 313-2865426, email Kandascent@gmail.com or visit Kandascent Temple of Love on Facebook.
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GIVING YOUR PETS a New Lease on Life with Stem Cell Therapy
A
stem cell is a primitive cell in every body tissue that has the ability to become any type of tissue needed for repair. In the case of embryonic stem cells, they can actually make organisms. However, aside from the moral and ethical implications of using embryonic stem cells, they can also become tumors and have a high rate of rejection. Luckily, not all stem cells are created equal. In veterinary medicine, adult stem cells, also known as multipotent, mesenchymal, or pluripotent stem cells, are used to help grow new tissue for affected areas. Unlike embryonic stem cells, adult stem cells cannot create organisms, only tissues. They can become bone, cartilage, adipose (fat), muscle, tendon, and ligament tissues. They are found in most tissues and can be used to regenerate and repair
24 Wayne County Edition
damaged tissue throughout the entire body. There is no rejection because it’s the organism’s own tissue. There is even a possibility they can regrow damaged organs such as the liver or skin or can regrow nerves. And there is hope that they may correct genetic abnormalities. Just as not all stem cells are created equal, not all diseases are created equal. And not all diseases will respond well to stem cell therapy. Stem cell therapy works well for animals with osteoarthritis, hip dysplasia, some fractures, tendon and ligament injuries, autoimmune disorders, chronic hepatitis, and for pain relief in cancer patients. Of course, age, other health conditions, and cost are also deciding factors that may not make a patient the best candidate for stem cell treatment. The first step in determining if your animal is a good candidate for stem cell
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treatment is to find a veterinarian who is certified to perform the procedure. In addition to certification, you should determine how many procedures a vet has performed and ask if any previous patients would be willing to speak to you so you can get a first-hand account of their experiences with the process and the doctor. Once you have found a veterinarian you are comfortable with, you will need to bring in your animal for an evaluation, which may include X-rays, blood work, and an ultrasound. The vet will determine if your animal is a good candidate for treatment. You will want to discuss the treatment plan and realistic outcomes. For example, stem cell treatment will help heal an injury and reduce pain for a certain amount of time, but it will not cure the underlying condition such as hip dysplasia or osteoarthritis. If the vet promises you miraculous results such as a cure or lifetime guarantee, it would be best to look for another vet. You will also want to discuss costs with the vet. Stem cell therapy is not your run-of-the-mill procedure and it is certainly not cheap. For many people, it is beyond their means. However, companies like Care Credit do offer financing options which often make it more affordable for people. Once you and the vet have determined that stem cell therapy is a good option for your pet, you will need to schedule the surgery and procedure. Stem cells can be sent out to a lab or converted in-house, depending on the vet and the type of procedure performed. The first step in the procedure is to harvest the adipose tissue. Adipose stem cells are the most commonly used stem cells in veterinary medicine because they are found in fat deposits throughout the body and are easy and safe to harvest. They also contain the largest number of stem cells – 100-300% more stem cells than found in bone marrow.
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They are the fastest stem cells to adapt to the new environment and replicate in as little as three days. Fat is collected from the abdomen, inguinal area, or thoracic wall. The harvest tissue is then sent for processing where the tissue is cleaned, broken down, and stem cells are separated out. If the tissue is sent to a lab, they can bank a portion of the cells for future treatments. This banking of cells does require yearly charges, but saves the patient from having to undergo further harvest surgeries. The next step is the actual treatment. The stem cells are injected into the affected area, such as the joints, and the patient is also given an IV stem cell dose prior to coming out of anesthesia. The whole process can be completed in a just a few days. It is important to know what to expect after surgery. Most patients will develop a seroma, which is swelling caused by fluid in the affected areas. This swelling is normal and will go down in time. Patients will start to see improvement in mobility within 5-7 days from the IV dose. Continued improvement will be seen within 7-60 days after treatment. The long-term results from stem-cell treatment are still unknown at this time. Stem cell treatment for dogs has only been legal since 2007 and since 2003 for horses. Stem cell therapy has also been approved for cats.
A short case study of a stem cell patient demonstrates the effectiveness of this treatment. A 12-year old male dog had chronic osteoarthritis since 2000. He had been on long-term pain medication, joint supplements, and anti-inflammatories. In early 2008, his owner was considering euthanasia. In May 2008, she opted for stem cell treatment. By the next week, he was chasing the house cats! In December 2008, he started to develop degenerative neuropathy. He received an IV stem cell treatment in January 2009 and had immediate improvement. He lived for another three years after his first treatment and had a high quality of life until his passing. Stem cell therapy is a great option for giving your pets a new lease on life. If you feel your pet may be a good candidate, contact a veterinarian who performs stem cell therapy to start the evaluation process. Dr. Kristine Butto-Brownlee, DVM, CVA, is the owner of Cahill Veterinary Hospital in Flat Rock. She was one of the first veterinarians certified in Michigan to perform stem cell therapy and has been performing treatments since 2007. For more information, visit CahillVeterinaryHospital.com or call 734-782-3131.
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January 2013
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healingways
Be Supplement
SAVVY How to Choose Wisely for Optimal Health by James Occhiogrosso
gether. However, pharmaceutical drugs are typically synthetic, single-action chemicals that target one body system or organ, causing it to alter its function; they mask symptoms, but do not cure disease. On the other hand, the goal of vitamins, minerals and plant-derived supplements is to provide nutrients to help a troubled body system by supporting health and healing. Some confusion occurs because many pharmaceutical and supplement manufacturers take advantage of people’s desire for a one-bullet solution, which rarely exists in either source. Stephen Lawson, administrative officer of the Linus Pauling Institute, at Oregon State University, maintains that, “Lumping together items like vitamins, minerals and botanicals, each of which can have profoundly different physical profiles and effects on the body, is dangerous and misleading.”
Who Needs Supplements?
According to the U.S. Office of Dietary Supplements, nearly half of us regularly use some kind of dietary supplement, including vitamins, minerals and botanical herbs.
W
hile mainstream media have recently targeted supplements with alarming coverage about their value and safety, James J. Gormley, former editor of Better Nutrition and author of User’s Guide to Brain-Boosting Supplements, helps set the record straight. In an open letter on the Citizens for Health website, at Tinyurl.com/LetterRebuttal, he contends the worst part about misleading articles is that they can scare readers away from benefits that safe supplements might offer. He notes that although nothing in life is 100 percent risk-free, supple-
26 Wayne County Edition
ments are inherently benign, while pharmaceutical drugs frequently have unhealthy side effects. Controversy over supplements seems to arise primarily from misinformation. Following are some guidelines and resources to help ensure their wise use and maximum benefit.
Supplements Versus Pharmaceutical Drugs Natural health practitioners report that their clients tend to mentally group pharmaceuticals and supplements to-
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Everyone can benefit from taking the right supplements to address specific health needs. Numerous studies attest that many diseases, especially in older adults, are caused by a deficiency of certain vitamins or minerals. For example, pernicious anemia, common in adults over the age of 60, is due to a long-term deficiency of vitamin B12. The condition often proved fatal until researchers discovered that taking such supplements could effectively treat it. Another common nutritional deficiency disease among aging adults is osteoporosis, a loss of bone minerals that often leads to fractures. Its primary cause is chronic deficiencies in calcium and vitamin D levels. The latter is crucial for absorbing calcium—a primary mineral for building bone. According to the National Institutes of Health, older adults are likely to spend more time indoors, plus, even when they are exposed to the sun, their skin does not synthesize vitamin D as efficiently as when they were younger. Serious nutrient deficiencies rarely cause fatal outcomes, but deficiencies of certain vitamins and minerals can deter organs from optimal functioning. General medical tests do not always show minor shortfalls, and practice shows that supplementing with the ap-
Helpful Resources Alliance for Natural Health Tinyurl.com/HelpfulReading Dr. Andrew Weil DrWeil.com HerbReference.com Linus Pauling Institute Micronutrient Information Center lpi.OregonState.edu/infocenter
is safe and usually helpful. The recommendation is to take enough, but not too much, of a deficiency-specific supplement, along with nutritious foods, in order to achieve a normal balance. A 2009 report by the U.S. National Poison Data System indicated that the number of serious adverse events that year from the use of vitamins, minerals, amino acids or herbal supplements was extremely low, with no related U.S. deaths. Many natural healthcare experts, including naturopaths, nutritionists and dieticians, conclude that supplements
are useful and in some cases, necessary, especially when treating a significant nutrient or hormonal deficiency. It’s wise to consult a knowledgeable professional before buying the antioxidant du jour mentioned by a friend from the gym. James Occhiogrosso, a natural health practitioner and master herbalist, specializes in salivary hormone testing and natural hormone balancing for men and women. Find helpful articles at HealthNaturallyToday.com. Connect at 239-498-1547 or DrJim@ HealthNaturallyToday.com.
National Institutes of Health Tinyurl.com/NIH-Supplements NutrientReference.com SupplementReference.com
propriate vitamin or mineral can often both eliminate symptoms and resolve an underlying problem.
Choosing Helpful Supplements Determining which supplements can best meet individual needs requires sound information. First, determine if a perceived condition could be caused by a vitamin or mineral deficiency, and then identify the best dosage. It is also vital to know how a supplement might interact with any current medications. Most vitamin and mineral supplements are safe when used properly, but always consider asking an experienced professional for guidance; this is especially true for botanicals, because some manufacturers make unsupported claims based only on their own research. Generally, nonprofit organizations such as the Linus Pauling Institute (lpi.Oregon State.edu) that do not sell supplement products, present unbiased information.
Final Word Although conflicting information continues to circulate, abundant scientific evidence verifies that commonsense use of vitamin and mineral supplements
Sunday: February 10, 17, 24 March 3, 10, 17, 24 5:00pm—8:00pm Soup & Salad Meal $10 per session or $50 for entire series May the Passion of Jesus Christ be always in our Hearts.
Lent 4.5 — Christian Simplicity
Lent 4.5 is a seven-week faith formation program which inspires and informs Christian communities on how to use the traditional Lenten disciplines of prayer, fasting and almsgiving to protect God’s creation, embrace Gospel justice and nurture spiritual fulfillment. It offers practical opportunities for people of faith to apply the values of Christian Simplicity to their everyday lives.
Session Topics: v February 10 v February 17 v February 24 v March 3 v March 10 v March 17 v March 24
Christian Simplicity: Fasting from Over-Consumption and Living More Simply Food: Buying and Eating Our Food Responsibly Consumption: Reconsidering Our Relationship to Stuff Transportation: Exploring Alternative Ways of Getting Around, Reducing Carbon Emissions Energy: Using Clean Energy and Consuming Energy More Efficiently Water: Conserving and Protecting the Sacred Gift of Water Gratitude and Generosity: Discovering New Ways of Opening Our Hearts and Becoming Involved
St. Paul of the Cross Passionist Retreat & Conference Center 23333 Schoolcraft • Detroit, MI 48223-2405 • RSVP 313.286.2802 www.passionist.org/stpauls • msansotta@passionist.org
Nurture Yourself & Change For Good • Feel more confident & peaceful • Dissolve thoughts that go ‘round ‘n ‘round • Remove limitations & obstacles • Discover your emotional flower essence • Find out your nutritional needs • Love yourself awake
Emotional Body Tuning (EBT) Subtle, yet astounding. Simple and effective. Phoenix Honka: Shaman, Herbalist, Reiki Master 248-880-6320 • sabatogecorrection.com natural awakenings
January 2013
27
Coming in February
The Health Benefits of Tai Chi Bodywork is Going Mainstream Explore how hands-on therapies feel good and help us heal.
For more information about advertising and how you can participate, call
313-221-9674 28 Wayne County Edition
by Erin Reas
T
ai chi is a graceful, flowing exercise that consists of a series of standing postures connected through stepping movements. The number of postures varies from 108 in traditional long forms to 20 to 40 movements in shorter forms. Tai chi is sometimes called “meditation in motion” due to the feelings of relaxation and calm that people can experience while practicing it. Harvard Women’s Health Watch wrote: “It might as well be called medication in motion,” due to the numerous health benefits Tai chi can provide when done on a regular basis.
considered a category of qigong. Tai chi was used as a martial art for defense. The five main systems of Tai chi are Chen, Yang, Wu, Hao, and Sun. Each system is named after the family that created it. Chen style is the oldest and Sun is the newest, with a 100-year history.
HISTORY
Tai chi is gaining popularity because of its many health benefits. In fact, no other single exercise can do as much for physical and mental well-being. Some of the measurable health benefits of Tai chi include:
Tai Chi was developed in China more than 1,000 years ago. Since it is so old, its precise history is uncertain. There are many stories about how it originated. Tai chi evolved from the ancient selfhealing practices of qigong and is now
• • • • •
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HEALTH BENEFITS
Boosting the immune system Slowing the aging process Reducing anxiety and depression Lowering blood pressure and heart rate Increasing breath capacity
• Improving balance and coordination • Increasing joint mobility • Improving bone density How can one exercise do so many things? One of the reasons is Tai chi’s powerful ability to reduce stress by way of the body’s natural relaxation response. Stress causes or contributes to approximately 80 percent of disease in this country. This is because stress triggers the flight-or-flight response, which prepares the body to react to a threat by either running or fighting. It was necessary for primitive people to survive. The fight-or-flight response causes the body to release chemicals that increase heart rate, blood pressure and muscle tension. It is still useful today in dealing with emergency situations. However, chronic stress can cause negative long-term effects. In the 1960s, Dr. Herbert Benson at Harvard University discovered the relaxation response while researching high blood pressure. The relaxation response reverses the fight-or-flight response. The relaxation response causes heart rate, blood pressure and muscle tension to decrease. It can be triggered in several ways, including breathing techniques, meditation, exercise, repetitive prayer and imagery. All of these techniques have two things in common: the repetition of a word, sound, prayer, image or physical activity and clearing the mind of thoughts.
In addition to reducing stress, Tai chi helps the muscles, bones and joints. It also improves coordination and balance. Falls in older people can cause significant injuries and possible death. Complications from fall injuries are one of the top 10 causes of death in older Americans. In a study conducted by the Center for Disease Control and several major universities, the people who practiced balance training other than Tai chi fell and injured themselves twice as often as the Tai chi practitioners did. Tai chi is a low-impact, weightbearing exercise that increases bone density and strengthens the muscles of both the upper and lower body.. The emphasis on relaxing the upper body and taking deep breaths allows the muscles to release tension. This, in turn, relieves pressure on the vertebrae caused by muscle tension. Without the muscle tension, the spine and also other bones and joints can realign. All of the major joints are exercised in Tai chi, enabling better circulation of blood and fluids. The result is increased lubrication and healing. The rotational movements work out calcium deposits that can decrease mobility. A NIHsponsored review concluded that Tai chi can be safely recommended to people with osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and fibromyalgia. Anyone with arthritis or knee problems should be careful about what form they practice. The Chen style has a martial arts focus and includes jumps and kicks. For this reason, it’s
considered the least suitable for people with arthritis. The stances in the Sun style involve less knee bending and less chance for injury. “Tai Chi for Arthritis” is a modified version of Sun style Tai chi. The National Council on Aging chartered Roger Jahnke, OMD, director of the Institute of Integral Qigong and Tai Chi, to create Tai Chi Easy in 2004. Tai Chi Easy presents powerful healthenhancement practices from Chinese medicine for healthy aging in a simple and easy-to-learn way. It includes five movements from Yang-style Tai chi. The unique teaching method of Tai Chi Easy helps older adults gain the health benefits of Tai chi quickly. Tai chi classes are offered through many city recreation departments, adult education programs and YMCAs. If no classes are available in an area, there are also many instructional DVDs and books. With all of the documented health benefits, why not give Tai chi a try? No special equipment or clothing is needed. It can be done alone or with a group. Once learned, it can be practiced for a lifetime. Erin Reas is a certified health and wellness coach and instructor of Tai Chi Easy and qigong, based in Trenton. She is also the co-author of You Will Overcome and Speaking Your Truth: Courageous Stories from Inspiring Women. For more information, call 313-429-3214, email Erin@ErinReas.com, or visit Facebook. com/Ease.Chi.
Our son who had been diagnosed with PDD and then ASD. Becky turned all of our lives around. She gave us hope when everyone else was closing doors. He has experienced major breakthroughs. He is now in a second grade regular education setting with support and is having SUCCESS!! He can read and is social. He’s been discharged from speech services. We can’t begin to thank her enough for her encouragement and support, her care and compassion, and her unwavering belief in him.
~ Since 1998 ~
natural awakenings
January 2013
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consciouseating
SUSTAINABLE WEIGHT LOSS Five Secrets for Feeling Like Yourself Again by Judith Fertig
Health experts agree that many foods can play multiple roles in weight loss.
S
tarting in the 1970s, natural foods advocate and journalist Kathleen Barnes, of Brevard, North Carolina, avidly practiced vegetarianism, yet through the years she still gained weight. Searching for answers, she shared her findings in an array of books that include 8 Weeks to Vibrant Health: A Take Charge Plan for Women (co-authored with Dr. Hyla Cass) and Rx from the Garden: 101 Food Cures You Can Easily Grow. “When I at last learned which key foods to add to my diet, I lost 100 pounds— and kept them off,” says Barnes. Burn fat. Foods with thermogenic properties help heat up the body and may help burn fat. “You feel a flush when you eat or drink them,” Barnes notes. Chili peppers, curry powder, horseradish, mustard, garlic, onion, wasabi, ginger, black pepper and radishes are especially good choices in cold weather, when we want to feel warm anyway.
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The intense flavors delivered by such foods help us to practice the principle of portion control, Chester KuLea, a health and nutrition consultant in Vancouver, British Columbia, says, “Adding these foods to dishes generates a higher rate of caloric burn, and their powerful flavors prompt people to eat far less than they normally would. Plus, red, cayenne and jalapeño peppers, hot sauces and any other spicy foods are all very low in calories.” Enhance mood. We don’t want to feel hungry or deprived when trying to lose weight. The protein in turkey, chicken and cold-water fish like salmon and mackerel helps us feel more satisfied and on top of things. Barnes also suggests eating low-fat cottage cheese, avocado, wheat germ, whole-grain crackers and bananas to help increase serotonin levels and feelings of well-being. “When you crave something sweet or feel like you’re crashing mid-afternoon, that’s the time to eat a small amount of these foods to get you back on track,” she advises. Julia Ross, author of The Mood Cure and The Diet Cure, agrees. This Mill Valley, California, nutritional psychotherapist recommends complex carbohydrates such as whole grains to keep us on an even keel during weight loss. “This means pushing away the leftover cake and eating sensible carbs to stimulate serotonin,” she says. Promote digestion. The fiber in fresh fruits and vegetables and whole grains helps move things along in the digestive system, making our bodies work more efficiently. Barnes favors drinking peppermint and other herbal teas and incorporating sage, dill, oregano and other herbs in savory dishes to aid digestion. According to a recent University of Illinois study, soluble fiber found in oat bran, fruits, vegetables and nuts not only facilitates digestion, but also supports the immune system. Professor Gregory Freund, who teaches at the university’s medical school in Champaign, explains, “Soluble fiber changes the personality of immune cells—they go from being pro-inflammatory, angry cells to antiinflammatory, healing cells that help us recover faster from infection.” Feel full. Hunger pangs can derail
anyone’s best efforts to eat better. Barnes learned that liquids, including up to two quarts of water a day, help retain a satisfied feeling. In cooler months, she makes soups that incorporate leafy green vegetables, onion, garlic, chili peppers and herbs. An apple a day might keep the doctor away—and help in other ways, as well. “Apples have a high water content and are packed with fiber, two factors that leave you satiated,” says Keren Gilbert, a registered dietitian and founder of Decision Nutrition, in Great Neck, New York. “For a tasty proteinpacked snack, top apple slices with natural almond butter.” Accept treats. Leaving room for a treat, like a piece of fine chocolate, can leave us feeling satisfied rather than stuffed, says Katherine Harvey, a registered dietitian in Kansas City, Missouri. Indulging in a little sweet treat from time to time reinforces the perception that eating right can be simple and pleasurable, says Barnes. In cold months, she likes to bake apples sweetened with Stevia and cinnamon, or poach pears in fruit juice and spices. She might break open a pomegranate and slowly munch each ruby-colored seed, or stop at a coffee shop to sip a latte made with low-fat milk.
Barnes’ evolved natural foods strategy has helped her maintain a desirable weight for many years now. “Sustainable weight loss involves sustainable eating,” she says, “finding healthy foods that we can enjoy for the rest of our lives.” Award-winning cookbook author Judith Fertig blogs at AlfrescoFoodAndLifestyle.blogspot.com.
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fitbody
STAND UP A ND MOVE! How to Sizzle, not Fizzle by Debra Melani
A
s millions of Americans ponder quitting newly launched fitness resolutions after finding it tough to squeeze in toning workouts or sweat off a few extra pounds, researchers implore: Don’t give up. Just pump out 20 minutes a day of any kind of exercise—take a brisk walk, jog, lift weights—and stop sitting so much. Results can bring a healthier, more youthful feeling of well-being, akin to what explorer Juan Ponce de León sought in the Americas long ago. In a recently completed study published in the Archives of Internal Medicine, researchers followed up with more than 18,000 middle-aged men and women that had been tested an average of 26 years earlier for cardiorespiratory fitness via a treadmill test. They compared those results with the individuals’ current Medicare data at the Cooper Institute Clinic, in Dallas, Texas “We found those who were fitter had a much lower rate of heart failure, chronic kidney disease, Alzheimer’s, diabetes, certain kinds of colon cancer and coronary artery disease,” says coauthor Dr. Benjamin Willis. “Fit people that did become ill did so at a much later age than their non-fit counterparts.
32 Wayne County Edition
They were able to enjoy a healthier life longer.” Researchers found that for every higher MET fitness level (standard metabolic equivalent, a unit for measuring fitness related to the amount of oxygen used by the body during physical activity), the risk of chronic disease decreased by about 6 percent. “So those that can raise their fitness levels by three METs have an estimated 18 to 20 percent reduced risk of developing a chronic disease,” Willis explains. The take-away message is, “Just move,” says study co-author Dr. Laura DeFina. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends investing in a weekly total of 150 to 300 minutes of moderate exercise or 75 to 150 minutes of vigorous exercise, either of which can be broken down into two or three 10-minute increments a day, DeFina confirms. As simple as it sounds, few people are doing it, something New York Times fitness columnist Gretchen Reynolds underscores in her recent book, The First 20 Minutes: Surprising Science Reveals How We Can: Exercise Better, Train Smarter, Live Longer. “Most of us sit an average of eight hours a day,
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whether it’s at a desk or in front of a television,” Reynolds says. “The human body was not meant to be sedentary.” More than three-quarters of Americans are not meeting exercise recommendations, with one-quarter remaining completely sedentary, the CDC reports. Breaking this cycle does not need to be difficult, Reynolds notes. “You get the benefits from just moving. Start by standing up more and moving around in your office.” Reynolds, who hops on one foot while brushing her teeth and reads standing up using a music stand, says studies have shown that bad things happen to bodies that sit for long stints, even those that start each day with an hour of exercise, and good things happen to bodies that stand often, even if it’s just for two minutes every half-hour. “For instance, when you stand, the big muscles in your legs and back contract, releasing enzymes that stabilize blood sugar,” Reynolds says, echoing findings of a study of more than 120,000 men and women published in the American Journal of Epidemiology. The researchers found that the combination of both sitting more and being less physically active was associated with a significant increase in accelerated death rate, particularly in women, at 94 percent, as well as men, at 48 percent. As Reynolds’ book title suggests, the majority of health benefits are derived from the first 20 minutes of exercise and begin to flatten out after 30 minutes or so. Dr. Carl Lavie, medical director of cardiac rehabilitation and prevention at the Ochsner Medical Center, in New Orleans, points out that this timeframe supports general health. He and Reynolds agree that to reach specific goals, such as increased running speed or dramatic weight loss, moderate levels won’t do the trick, so do more, if possible. The most vital message, experts agree, is to do something every day, consistently. Willis observes that, “The effects can quickly reverse if you stop.” Freelance journalist Debra Melani writes about health care and fitness from Lyons, CO. Connect at Debra Melani.com or DMelani@msn.com.
healthykids
(ADHD). A 2011 study taking into account 35 years of research found that many ADHD children showed significant improvement after eliminating dyes from their diets; it also registered that greater than 70 percent were positively influenced by various dietary changes. The results were promising enough for researchers to conclude, “A trial elimination diet is appropriate for children that have not responded satisfactorily to conventional treatment.”
The Role of Vitamin D
Addressing Autism
Families Have Reasons for Hope by Brita Belli
P
arents of autistic children are encouraged when they witness improvements after eliminating gluten (wheat) and casein (dairy) from their kids’ diets. Now a parental study supports the correlation—for some kids on the autism spectrum, the gluten- and casein-free (GFCF) diet appears to be connected with remarkable changes. Laura Cousino Klein, associate professor of biobehavioral health and human development at the Penn State College of Medicine, helped lead research that surveyed 387 parents or caregivers with affected children. For those diagnosed with combinations of autism and gastrointestinal issues or food sensitivities, the GFCF diet brought marked improvements in their autism spectrum disorder (ASD) behaviors— reducing hyperactivity and tantrums; minimizing constipation and seizures; and improving social behaviors. Klein says scientists are still working to understand the interaction between the brain, gut and behaviors, but recent findings suggest that significant links exist. “One hypothesis is that by eliminating dietary triggers in the presence of food allergies or gastrointestinal distress, you’re reducing inflammation or irritability of the immune system, and that’s affecting the way the brain is functioning,” she says.
Dietary Turnaround One Racine, Wisconsin, mom, Cindy Schultz, a tireless advocate for her autistic son, says, “As an infant, he either had constipation or diarrhea. There was never a happy medium.” The GFCF diet has improved his health and his ability
to communicate. Shauna Layton, in Clinton, Indiana, says her son experienced similar bowel problems and she also saw a remarkable turnaround in his language abilities and social interactions as they adhered to a GFCF diet and eliminated sugar and yeast. Other parents from her online support group, Together in Autism, report similar success. “Some children have never talked, and now they are saying ‘Mom,’ ‘Dad,’ or ‘I love you,’ for the first time,” Layton says. A definitive gut-brain link with autism has yet to be identified. Some scientists suggest that kids with autism are more likely to have leaky gut syndrome (intestinal permeability), which allows peptides from gluten and casein to escape from the digestive tract, cross the intestinal membranes, enter the bloodstream and go to the brain, causing the neurobehavioral symptoms known as ASDs, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics. While the AAP knows of no scientific proof that a GFCF diet will bring benefits, they note that it’s possible, especially in people suffering from celiac disease. Parents have also observed that food dyes can exacerbate hyperactivity in children, a connection unconfirmed by the federal government. In 2011, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration Food Advisory Committee suggested further testing, while voting against additional food labeling requirements for potentially problematic dyes. Meanwhile, some parents affirm that eliminating such dyes has helped them better manage their children’s attention deficit hyperactivity disorder
A 2012 study in the Journal of Neuroinflammation found that autistic children had significantly lower levels of vitamin D than control subjects. Vitamin D, the study notes, regulates immune function and thus autoimmunity; when the immune system is disrupted and the body attacks itself, it may play a role in the development of autism. Dr. John Cannell, founder of the nonprofit Vitamin D Council, remarks that fear of sun overexposure has led to the deficiencies. “Vitamin D is not a vitamin,” Cannell clarifies. “It’s a steroid hormone system that begins in the skin. If children aren’t getting any photons of UVB light, they’re not making any vitamin D.” He notes that the rise in autism rates during the last 25 years tracks with increases in 50-plus SPF sunscreen use, more time spent indoors and a rise in breastfeeding. Because breast milk contains low amounts of vitamin D, since 2003 the AAP has emphasized the importance of parents giving vitamin D supplement drops to breastfed infants. The same vitamin D study showed that the severity of autism correlated strongly with deficiencies of this vitamin and that the higher the level, the less severe the symptoms. Cannell has witnessed this phenomenon via a clinic hosted by the Vitamin D Council, recommending increases in vitamin D levels for autistic children to “high normal levels” and reducing vitamin A, which blocks the action of vitamin D. “We have children on 5,000 to 10,000 units of vitamin D a day,” Cannell reports. “We see improvements in terms of sleep, meltdowns, eye contact, cognitive capacity, fine motor skills, language and reading—across the spectrum.” Brita Belli is the author of The Autism Puzzle: Connecting the Dots Between Environmental Toxins and Rising Autism Rates.
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Are We Losing Our Religion?
by Roger Mohr
I
t is widely reported that we are becoming a less religious people. The U.S. Census shows that those who claim no religious identity make up about 16 percent of the American population (and there is a similar percentage globally), and this number is growing rapidly, with another five percent refusing to answer the question at all. That is more than four times the number of all other adherents for all non-Christian faiths combined. A Gallup poll shows that at least a third of all Americans are non-religious in their actual behavior, neither participating in religious activities, such as church attendance, nor perceiving religion to be important in the way they live their lives. Americans are, apparently, growing less and less religious. But that is only partly true. Many people are indeed growing more religious, and clinging more tightly to traditional beliefs. But it is also true that there is a deeper faith at work: our faith in our own human answers and solutions. You see, every time we go to a doctor, start a car, access the internet, turn on a light or even just get a drink of water, we implicitly offer a prayer of thanksgiving to our own human capacity to discover the truth about the Cosmos, solve our problems and to improve our own lives. When
we talk about things such as personal growth, human rights, reason, evidence, compassion, civil liberties, progress and personal growth, we are making religious claims. We are claiming that we ourselves are the ones who are expected to choose our own path, our own truth, our own solutions, our own questions and our own beliefs. There was a time when those answers were just given to us by external authority, via religious belief. The big shift in our religious thinking is that more and more of us are recognizing that the faith that we really need is faith in ourselves. The belief that human beings are responsible for solving their own problems and for creating their own future is referred to as “Humanism.� It is a very old tradition, dating back to the ancient Greeks, and came back to prominence in our culture through the Renaissance and European Enlightenment. We are not really becoming less religious. We are simply acknowledging our true beliefs. Americans tend to place our faith primarily in our own human ability, and responsibility, to solve our own problems, discover our own truths and create our own lives. We are simply acknowledging that our primary hopes rest in human reason, compassion and creativity. That belief, however, is not at all in conflict with
For those who do
believe in God, or who even have a strong commitment to a
specific tradition, the
increasing openness in relationship to
religious belief means a new liberty.
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NaturalAwakeningsDetroit.com
conventional religious faith. For those who do believe in God, or who even have a strong commitment to a specific tradition, the increasing openness in relationship to religious belief means a new liberty. All belief systems can now have the opportunity to test their beliefs and values in the free market of public discourse and discernment. The decline of conventional religious belief is an opportunity to think more deeply about the meaning of our beliefs. Suddenly what we believe has a new interest and excitement as the opportunities and possibilities begin to open before us. We can create entirely new systems of meaning and value by conscious choice, rather than unconscious inheritance. For instance, consider the role of women in society. Traditional religion is very clear about women’s subordinate place, as women are told to submit to their husbands. In traditional religions, a woman’s role is to keep her husband’s home and produce her husband’s children. However, that arrangement is unacceptable to many women, as well as many men. Indeed, in many contemporary households, the woman is both the primary wage earner and de facto head of
8935 Telegraph Rd –– Taylor –– the family. Moreover, it is easy to imagine a world in which romantic relationships were guided by a more egalitarian and cooperative set of principles. The old values had God enthroned in heaven and the patriarch similarly in charge of the family. But somehow I suspect that many women might find that belief system less than satisfactory today. With the rise of a new religious freedom, rather than being defined by the customs and dictates of the past, our relationships can be guided by our true needs and ideals. What about our relationship with the Earth? In traditional religion, the planet is an object to be subordinated and exploited, given to humanity as a possession. Yet the signs that such a relationship is somewhat less than healthy and respectful are obvious. The Earth is far more complex and vulnerable than we had understood in our collective human childhood. It is not a fixed, inert object; rather, it is an evolving, dynamic system. It is not indifferent and aloof from our actions; rather, it responds to our actions, changing as we change, and adjusting to our presence and efforts. That is both a frightening reality an exciting opportunity. We live in relation to the earth. And very much like our relationship to our romantic partners, we have choices about how we understand and structure that relationship. How might we like to structure our relationship with the Earth? It is easy to multiply the ways in which a new attitude about beliefs and values might offer a new frontier of possibilities. As we all know, there is vast room for improvement in the way we live our lives and understand our relationships. But what is really exciting is the realization that each of us has both opportunity and responsibility for our choices about our beliefs and values. In moving beyond conventional religion, we are announcing our understanding of our new adulthood as a species. We are grown-ups, capable of forming mature relationships with the Cosmos, however we may choose to understand it. We can now choose the way we want to relate to the world, and negotiate those terms with those around us. What sort of world do we want to create together? Roger Mohr is a nationally recognized Humanist minister and change-management consultant. He is the minister at First Unitarian Universalist Church, in Detroit, near the Wayne State University campus. For more information, visit RogerMohr. com and 1stUU.org. natural awakenings
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calendarofevents All Calendar events must be received by the 15th of the month prior to publication, and adhere to our guidelines. Please visit HealthyLivingDetroit.com for guidelines and to submit entries.
January 1 Free Wellness Presentation - 7-8:30pm. Learn how to keep those cold and flu bugs at bay and how chronic dis-ease prevention can be as easy as simple life style and nutritional modifications. Bring a friend or family member and learn how to get healthy and stay healthy, light healthy refreshments served, seating limited, RSVP by 12/29, free. This may be just the thing you need to help you start making healthy changes that will last a lifetime! Dr. Doris, 310 Bert Lane, Inkster. 4YourGoodHealth.info, 734-895-1940.
January 2
savethedate Boys & Girls Gymnastics All Day Fun – 9am – 4pm. Sokol Gymnastics is hosting 3 days of a fun gymnastics camp Jan 2, 3 & 4th extended hours avail, ages 5 and up. Rates vary with times, $20 - $35 a day. New Sokol Detroit Gymnastics, 23600 W Warren Rd (just E of Telegraph), Dearborn Heights. SokolGymnastics.com 313585-8671 Post New Year Foot Detox - 9am-8pm. We are offering special post New Year foot detoxing days on Jan 2 & 3, call to make an appt with Alicia. Walk-ins also welcome. Only $25. Total Health Foods, 2938 Biddle Ave, Wyandotte. THFDownriver.com, 734-246-1208.
January 5 Choffy Tasting - 10am-12:30pm. Join us for a free Choffy tasting! Come check out brewed cacao! Mmm...chocolate! Free. Total Health Foods, 2938 Biddle Ave, Wyandotte. THFDownriver.com, 734-246-1208. Weight loss and Detox Class – 11am-12pm. Come and get started on the ‘New You’, Dr Sisk & Cardiac Nurse Ruth Coaches presenting – plus do a buddy plan and get 10% discount on any products purchased. $10, space is limited, must pre-register. The Health Spa of Plymouth, 1075 Ann Arbor Rd, Plymouth. HealthSpaOfPlymouth.com 734-454-5600. Connecting with Nature - 2-4:30pm. Intro to an ancient and playful approach to mentoring deep connection with nature as shared in Coyote’s Guide to Connecting with Nature. Rowena Conahan and Chuck Barbieri of Ann Arbor Nature School will share stories about this form of mentoring, and lead games to awaken sensory awareness and intuitive connection with the
36 Wayne County Edition
natural world. Participants will have a chance to make a nature craft and deepen their awareness of our local ecology. Donations welcome. Coyote’s Guide will be available for purchase, and a book study group will be forming. Crazy Wisdom Book Store and Tea Room, 114 S Main St, Ann Arbor. Nature-Class.Homestead.com, 734-531-8330.
January 6 Healthy Eating for 2013 - 12-1pm. It’s the new year and you want to become the new YOU, right? Come learn all about juicing, smoothies, healthy alternatives etc. to have all the tools for a great new you. RSVP at 734-525-9588 free. Dr. William Civello, 34441 8 Mile Rd., Ste 116, Livonia. DrCivello.com. Auditions for Little Mermaid – 3-6pm. Register in advance to audition for Disney’s Little Mermaid. This wonderful favorite should bring a smile to audiences - take a chance & find your voice – audition, make friends, do something new! Ages 5-18 (age 18 is a Disney Rule) age is as of show date. Show dates are March 15, 16, 17, 22, 23. No exp necessary. Downriver Youth Performing Arts Center, Trenton Village Theater, 2447 West Jefferson, Trenton. Debra Jackson, dypac@dypac.com 734-671-2202
January 7 Auditions for Little Mermaid – 6-9pm. Register in advance to audition for Disney’s Little Mermaid. This wonderful favorite should bring a smile to audiences - take a chance & find your voice – audition, make friends, do something new! Ages 5-18 (age 18 is a Disney Rule) age is as of show date. Show dates are March 15, 16, 17, 22, 23. No exp necessary. Downriver Youth Performing Arts Center, Trenton Village Theater, 2447 West Jefferson, Trenton. Debra Jackson, dypac@dypac.com 734-671-2202
In the sky, there is no distinction of east and west; people create distinctions out of their own minds and then believe them to be true. ~Buddha Weightloss Workshop - 7-8:15pm. Join Dr. Mark Campbell and learn about why some people just can’t seem to lose weight, and get help to shed those extra pounds! free. Canton Center Chiropractic Clinic, 6231 N Canton Ctr Rd Ste 109, Canton. CantonCenterChiropractic.com, 734-455-6767.
January 8 Youngevity meeting - 6-8pm. Come learn about Youngevity & see what the hype is all about! Free. Total Health Foods, 2938 Biddle Ave, Wyandotte. THFDownriver.com, 734-246-1208.
NaturalAwakeningsDetroit.com
Pressure Point Therapy - 7-8pm. Certified Wellness Doctor, Dr William H Karl, DC, guides you thorough step-by-step instruction of pressure point therapy with a partner and/ or for yourself. Free, please register 734-4258220. Karl Wellness Center & Chiropractic Clinic, 30935 Ann Arbor Trail, Westland. Karl WellnessCenter.com. Essential Stretches – 8-9pm. Dr. Karl teaches unique stretching techniques which are essential to any fitness program to help you avoid injury and increase flexibility- no matter what your age or fitness level. Free. Call to register 734425-8220, Karl Wellness Center & Chiropractic Clinic, 30935 Ann Arbor Trail, Westland. KarlWellnessCenter.com.
January 9
savethedate Green Smoothie Basics - Green Smoothie Challenge Wk 1 - 6:308pm. Are you looking to take the next steps toward a healthier, happier you? Join VeggiePatti for the 6 Wk Green Smoothie Challenge. In wk 1, learn about the benefits of greens and the power of green smoothies to help boost your overall health and improve your mood, plus supplements, herbs, and foods that you can add to your smoothies that may help with different ailments. Live demonstration and taste smoothie samples. Challenge runs for 6 wks from Wed, Jan 9 to Wed, Feb 13. The class will meet each Wed for support and new material, minimum number of participants are required to run the program. RSVP required by Wed, Jan 9. Cost for the entire program is $90 for six wks. Drop-in classes will be available, space provided, at $20 per class. VeggiePatti.com Disclaimer: The material presented in these classes is not intended as medical advice. $90 for 6 weeks/$20 drop-in. Total Health Foods, 2938 Biddle Ave, Wyandotte. VeggiePatti.com, 734-246-1208.
Pet Food Bank – 3-5:30pm. 2nd Wed of every month. Bring proof of your animals which you are seeking assistance for, see website for requirements. Please do not bring your animals to this visit. Trenton/Woodhaven Animal Shelter, 21860 Van Horn Rd, Woodhaven. BasilsBuddies.org, 734-926-1098.
January 10 Dine & Dish with VeggiePatti - 7:00pm. On the fence about becoming a vegetarian? Have questions about the vegan lifestyle? Having problems figuring out what to eat on a gluten-free diet? Then come Dine & Dish with VeggiePatti, who will be available for free Q & A sessions once a month at Total Health Foods’ Juice Bar. Grab a smoothie, juice, or raw food snack and get your questions answered, she’s happy to answer questions on vegetarianism, veganism, raw foods, whole foods, gluten-free diets, and eating with food sensitivities. Disclaimer: The info presented isn’t intended as medical advice. Free. Total Health Foods, 2938 Biddle Ave, Wyandotte. VeggiePatti.com, 734-246-1208. Wrap Night - 7-9pm. Join us for our wrap night party - get wrapped - lose inches! Check out this healthy detox method for only $25 Total Health Foods, 2938 Biddle Ave, Wyandotte. THFDownriver.com, 734-246-1208. Holistic Networking Group – 6-8pm. Bring your business cards and plan to network, plus be prepared to share the title and author of a book that might be of interest to the group. $10 dinner included, RSVP 586-943-5785. St. Paul of the Cross Retreat & Conference Center, 23333 Schoolcraft (I-96 @ Telegraph), Detroit.
January 12 Choffy Tasting - 10am-12:30pm. Join us for a free Choffy tasting, check out brewed cacao - Mmm...chocolate! Free. Total Health Foods, 2938 Biddle Ave, Wyandotte. THFDownriver. com, 734-246-1208. Wellness Extravaganza - 12-3pm. Join us for an afternoon of demonstrations and information featuring chiropractic, nutrition, massage, reiki, reflexology and so much more, free sessions, raffles, and refreshments will be offered. Iridology and Aura photo appointments by Dr Jack Lewis, also be available for a fee. Call to register 734-455-6767. Canton Center Chiropractic Clinic, 6231 N Canton Ctr Rd Ste 109, Canton. CantonCenterChiropractic.com.
Shamanic Memory Workshop – 4-6pm. This is a ‘Stone People Gazing’ Workshop. The Stone People are known to be the keepers of the wisdom by all of our ancestors in many cultures worldwide. They hold the stories. Learn the ways of looking deeply into the surface and contours of a Stone Person (of your choosing) to gain insight and wisdom about yourself, others and the earth. It’s definitely a journey into the interconnectedness of humans with Nature. Once you see and sense this ceremonial way of being with Nature you can reach a deeper understanding of what it means to be All One. Taught by Phoenix Honka. $20, space is limited to 8 people, must call to register 248-880-6320. Mercy Center, 28650 W 11 Mile Rd, Farmington Hills.
January 14 Stress & Food Cravings - 6-7:30pm. Come join Lucinda as she discusses how to control stress and food cravings. Free. Total Health Foods, 2938 Biddle Ave, Wyandotte. THFDownriver. com,734-246-1208. All About Purification and Detox - 7:158:30pm. Join Dr. Potter for an informative presentation about the “How’s” and “Whys” of Purification and Detoxification. Find out which program is the best for you. Call to register 734-455-6767. free. Canton Center Chiropractic Clinic, 6231 N Canton Ctr Rd. Ste 109, Canton. CantonCenterChiropractic.com.
January 15 Senior Stretching/Chair Exercise class -12noon-1pm. Enhance your movement and fitness. $5 each or $10 for 3 classes. Please RSVP/Bring a Friend. Health Spa of Plymouth, 1075 Ann Arbor Road, Plymouth, 734-454-5600. VegMichigan Presents Veg 101 - 7-8:30pm. Learn the nutritional aspects of a plant based diet and taste samples of the prepared food. Presenters will discuss how easy it can be to transform a standard meal into a delicious plant-based (no meat or dairy) option $5 Registration required, 734-997-7500. Whole Foods Market, 990 W Eisenhower Parkway, Ann Arbor.
January 16 Neck & Shoulder Strengthening and Biomechanics - 6-7pm. De-stress your body and gain postural awareness. Please RSVP/Bring a Friend. Health Spa of Plymouth, 1075 Ann Arbor Rd, Plymouth, HealthSpaOfPlymouth. com, 734-454-5600. Bye, Bye American Pie: Say Goodbye to Processed Foods - Green Smoothie Challenge Wk 2 - 6:30-8pm. Learn how to wean yourself off of processed foods and replace them with healthy alternatives, + additional supplements, herbs, and foods that you can add to help curb those cravings. RSVP required, $20 drop in fee. Disclaimer: The material presented in these classes is not intended as medical advice. Total Health Foods, 2938 Biddle Ave, Wyandotte. VeggiePatti.com, 734-246-1208. New Year, A New You – 7-9pm. Learn how the body and metabolism work, why most diets do not work, the true value of being healthy and fit, along with how food and water play a role in health. You must eat to turn your body into a fat burning machine. Learn what foods help and which will hurt you. Take a natural approach to a healthier, new you. Limited to 10 guests, call 734756-6904 to register. Presented by Dr. Carol Ann Fischer, BS, DC, ND. TLC Holistic Wellness, 31580 Schoolcraft Rd, Livonia.
January 18 Third Fridays in Wyandotte - Apple Pie Contest - 5pm. Wyandotte Business Assoc will have it’s Apple Pie Contest, many shops and restaurants in the downtown district stay open later than usual, offer freebies, specials and discounts plus musical entertainment, free trolley, horse & carriage rides throughout the downtown district. Wyandotte.net Free. Total Health Foods, 2938 Biddle Ave, Wyandotte. THFDownriver. com,734-246-1208.
January 19 Weight Loss and Detox class – 11am-12noon. Come and get started on the “New You.” Dr. Sisk and cardiac nurse, Ruth, presenting. $10/ Do a Buddy Plan and get 10% discount on any products purchased. Please RSVP/Bring a Friend. Health Spa of Plymouth, 1075 Ann Arbor Rd, Plymouth, 734-454-5600.
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natural awakenings
January 2013
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January 22
January 25
Lose the weight and keep it off - 1-2pm. Are you serious about getting control of that appetite & weight? Learn about a PROVEN system which loses only fat & maintains the muscles. Commit to just 12 wks. Broad Family Chiropractic, 43423 Joy Road & Morton Taylor, Canton. BroadFamilyChiro.com, 734 354-9900.
Senior Stretching/Chair Exercise class- 8:309:30am. Enhance your movement and fitness. $5 each or $10 for 3 classes. Please RSVP/Bring a Friend. Health Spa of Plymouth, 1075 Ann Arbor Road, Plymouth, HealthSpaOfPlymouth. com, 734-454-5600.
Thermography Class and Scans - 2-6pm. Join us for a free informational class on thermography. Scans will be available following the class. Call to make an appt or schedule one after.2-2:30 pm - Free Lecture, appts afterwards. Total Health Foods, 2938 Biddle Ave, Wyandotte. THFDownriver.com, 734-246-1208. Special Movie Presentation: ‘PlanEat’ - 6:308:30pm. The film inspires viewers to make the right food choices that can dramatically reduce the risk of heart disease and cancer, protect the environment, and make the planet sustainable while celebrating the joys of food. Co-hosted by the Friends of the Dearborn Animal Shelter, who will be providing some Vegan treats. Free. Caroline Kennedy Library, 24590 George St, Dearborn Hghts. DHCL.michlibrary.org, 313791-3800. Balance Your Hormones Naturally – 7-9pm. Learn from a women who has been there --Dr. Carol Ann Fischer, BS, DC, ND presents a holistic approach to balancing your hormones naturally. Over 80 million women in the US currently suffer with PMS and symptoms of menopause, and many are confused about what health options are available & right for them. This Health Forum is for both Men and Women! Limited to 10 guests, call 734-756-6904. Civic Center Library, 32777 Five Mile Road, Livonia.
January 23 Let Me Hear You Rawr! Adding More Raw Foods to Your Diet - Green Smoothie Challenge Wk 3 - 6:30pm-8pm. Learn how to add more raw foods to your diet. You will get to taste samples and learn how to make some amazing raw desserts. Disclaimer: The material presented in these classes is not intended as medical advice. $20 drop-in. Total Health Foods, 2938 Biddle Ave, Wyandotte. VeggiePatti.com, 734-246-1208. Lose the weight & keep it off - 7-8pm. Are you serious about getting control of that appetite & weight? Learn about a PROVEN system which loses only fat & maintains the muscles. Commit to just 12 wks. Broad Family Chiropractic, 43423 Joy Road & Morton Taylor, Canton. BroadFamilyChiro.com, 734 354-9900.
January 24 Wrap Night - 7-9pm. Join us for our wrap night party, get wrapped, lose inches and check out this healthy detox method for only $25. Total Health Foods, 2938 Biddle Ave, Wyandotte. THFDownriver.com, 734-246-1208.
38 Wayne County Edition
January 26 Pet Adoptions - 3-5pm. Basil’s Buddies has many available cats waiting for their fur-ever homes! . PetSmart Woodhaven, 23470 Allen Rd, Woodhaven. BasilsBuddies.org, 734-926-1098. Shamanic Memory Workshop – 4-6pm. This is a ‘Stone People Gazing’ Workshop. The Stone People are known to be the keepers of the wisdom by all of our ancestors in many cultures worldwide. They hold the stories. Learn the ways of looking deeply into the surface and contours of a Stone Person (of your choosing) to gain insight and wisdom about yourself, others and the earth. It’s definitely a journey into the interconnectedness of humans with Nature. Once you see and sense this ceremonial way of being with Nature you can reach a deeper understanding of what it means to be All One. Taught by Phoenix Honka. $20, space is limited to 8 people, must call to register 248-880-6320. Mercy Center, 28650 W 11 Mile Rd, Farmington Hills.
January 29 Senior Stretching/Chair Exercise class -12noon-1pm. Enhance your movement and fitness. $5 or $10 for 3 classes. Please RSVP/ Bring a Friend. Health Spa of Plymouth, 1075 Ann Arbor Rd, Plymouth. HealthSpaOfPlymouth. com, 734-454-5600. Feeling Good in the New Year with Essential Oils - 7-8:15pm. Join Cynthia Haas, Aroma Therapist, for a discussion about feeling good in the New Year with the use of “Therapeutic Grade Essential Oils”. Transformation plan for a healthier lifestyle. Register at 734-4556767, free. Canton Center Chiropractic Clinic, 6231 N Canton Ctr Rd Ste 109, Canton. CantonCenterChiropractic.com.
January 30 Core Strengthening: Functional Movement of Back and Abdominal Muscles – 6-7pm. Improve your overall daily activities and enhance your workout level. $10 each or 2 classes for $15 Please RSVP/Bring a Friend. Health Spa of Plymouth, 1075 Ann Arbor Rd, Plymouth. HealthSpaOfPlymouth.com, 734-454-5600. Rethinking the Salad & Revving It Up - Green Smoothie Challenge Wk 4 - 6:30-8pm. Learn to make delicious, nutritious, and non-traditional salads, plus discuss the importance of movement and adding activity to your routine to help get your body moving. Disclaimer: The material presented in these classes is not intended as medical advice. $20 drop-in. Total Health Foods, 2938 Biddle Ave, Wyandotte. VeggiePatti.com, 734-246-1208.
NaturalAwakeningsDetroit.com
savethedate The Blessings & Challenges of Women in Mid-Life - 8:30am4:30pm. As a woman, you care for individuals in all phases of life. Mid-Life can be one of the most exciting and yet most challenging times for any woman. Come and explore the impact of life transitions on women in middle adulthood. Discover holistic approaches to support and educate women, so you can meet the challenges and discover your gifts in the process. Seminar includes Continental Breakfast & Lunch. $50 St. Paul of the Cross Retreat & Conference Center, 23333 Schoolcraft (I-96 @ Telegraph), Detroit. Passionist. org/stpauls, 313-286-2802.
February 2 P.A.W.S. of Michigan’s ‘Love Me Because’ Pet Adoption Event - 12-5pm. Love Me Because… “I am older, I am overweight, no one taught me better I have medical issues I have attitude I am special I need you”-specifically for animals that are harder to adopt because of their unique traits or behaviors. PawsOfMichigan.com. Free. Hood’s Doit Best, 1844 Ford Ave, Wyandotte. Facebook. com/LoveMeBecausePetAdoptionEvent
February 6 Creating Healthy Habits - Green Smoothie Challenge Wk 5 - 6:30-8pm. Learn easy ways to create healthy habits and remove the clutter from your life, plus we will talk about a plan to restock your cupboards to support healthier habits and discuss obstacle avoidance so you don’t fall back into your old lifestyle. Disclaimer: The material presented in these classes is not intended as medical advice. $20 drop-in. Total Health Foods, 2938 Biddle Ave, Wyandotte. VeggiePatti.com, 734-246-1208.
February 9 Health Expo - 10:30am- 5:00pm. LifeCare takes a whole person approach, expo includes speakers and an opportunity to learn how to take care of you body, soul and mind. LifeCare, 33445 Warren Rd, Westland. LifeCareChristianCenter. org, 734-629-3551. Pet Adoptions - 3-5pm. Basil’s Buddies has many available cats waiting for their fur-ever homes! . PetSmart, 23470 Allen Rd, Woodhaven. BasilsBuddies.org, 734-926-1098.
ongoingcalendar All Calendar events must be received by the 15th of the month prior to publication, and adhere to our guidelines. Visit NaturalAwakeningsDetroit.com for calendar guidelines and to submit ongoing events.
$2 Shot Day - 11am-7pm/ What’s better than a wheat grass shot? A $2 wheat grass shot! Every Sunday in January, Total Health Foods Juice Bar will be offering $2 shots! $2. Total Health Foods, 2938 Biddle Ave, Wyandotte. THFDownriver. com, 734-246-1208.
Foot Detox Tuesdays - 9am-8pm. Call to make an appt with Alicia. Walk-ins also welcome. $25. Total Health Foods, 2938 Biddle Ave, Wyandotte. THFDownriver.com, 734-246-1208. Gentle Flow Yoga – 11:30am-12:30pm. Serene, restorative practice. All levels. Yoga Shelter, 17000 Kercheval Ave, 2nd floor, Grosse Pte. YogaShelter.com, 313-884-YOGA.
Yoga Class - 11:30am-12:30pm. Guided poses to warm the body. Gentle postures with optimal alignment. All levels, including beginner exploration. Donation based/not Free. BE NICE Yoga Studio, 4100 Woodward Ave, Detroit. BeNiceYoga.com, 313-544-9787.
SWCRC Connections Weekly Networking Group – 12pm. (2nd & 4th Mondays) Free to chamber members, one business per industry. Non-members can visit 2 mtgs free. Famous Dave’s, 23800 Eureka Rd, Taylor. Suzan 734287-3699.
Yin (restorative) Yoga – 7-8pm. $14 walk in. Livonia Yoga Ctr, 19219 Merriman Rd, Livonia. LivoniaYogaCenter.com, 248-4499642.
Lunch Yoga – 12-1pm. Donation. Yoga 4 Peace, 13550 Dix-Toledo Rd, Southgate. info@ y4peace.org 734-282-9642.
Hoop Dance/Hoop Fit Sessions - 8:159:15pm. Hoop Dance Levels 1-4. Build a strong core, increase upper body strength and relax the mind and soul. $10. World of Pole Fitness & Dance, 32669 Warren, Ste 6, Garden City. WorldOfPole.com, 734-306-0909.
Basic Hatha Yoga - 8-9am. All levels $10. W Dearborn. EmbracingTheLotus.com. Lisa Phelps. kiyoda1@me.com, 313-410-3147.
Kids Yoga – 4:45-5:30pm. Students ages 5 to 12 will gain focus, confidence, and body awareness while having fun with new friends, $8 per child. Taylor Yoga, 8935 Telegraph Rd, Taylor. TaylorYoga.com, 313-292-9642. Yoga – 6-7pm. De-stress, relax, rejuvenate! $10. The Sanctuary, Chiropractic & Wellness Spa, 35275 Plymouth Rd, Livonia. Katie 248880-3755. Healthy Backs Yoga – 6:30-7:30pm. Call for details. Embracing the Lotus Yoga Sanctuary, Dearborn.OneSpaceConnected.com/ EmbracingtheLotus.htm,kiyoda1@me.com 313-410-3147.
Nia Technique – 7-8pm. All ages & fitness levels. $7. Canton Ctr Chiropractic Clinic, 6231 N Canton Ctr Rd, Ste 109, Canton. 734-4556767.
SWCRC Connections Weekly Networking Group – 8am. Free to chamber members, one business per industry. Non-members can visit two meetings free. WCCC-Downriver Campus, 21000 Northline Rd – Conference Room 11, Taylor. Rick Williams, 734-626-7778. Gentle Yoga – 9-10:15am. Suitable for all levels. $14. TaylorYoga, 8935 Telegraph Rd, Taylor. TaylorYoga.com, 313-292-9642. Foot Detox Tuesdays - 9am-8pm. Call to make an appt with Alicia. Walk-ins also welcome. $25. Total Health Foods, 2938 Biddle Ave, Wyandotte. THFDownriver.com, 734-246-1208. Awaken Internal Organs – 11:30am-12:30pm. Learn ancient & new ways to acknowledge & awaken your internal organs. Andrea will explore with you ways of breaking through blockages within the body by using tools such as meditation, breathwork and sound healing. Feel grounded and more alive. $10/ class. Kandascent Temple of Love, 8325 E Jefferson – Indian Village, Detroit. 313-2865426 Yoga - 10:15-11:15am. Come enjoy yoga in a nurturing environment! $10 walk-in rate. St. John Neumann, 44800 Warren Rd, Canton. StJohnNeumann.us, 734-455-5910. Classic Nia – 5:30-6:30pm. All levels. $13. Body and Mind Fitness, 239 E Nine Mile Rd, 1 blk E of Woodward, Ferndale. NiaBethSchedule.BlogSpot.com
ORGANIC HAIR CARE massage therapy featuring Modern Organic Products
Youngblood brand mineral cosmetics Now Offering Migun Far Infrared Thermal Massage ~Very affordable rates~
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Between Outer Dr. & Van Born
313.561.6455
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In Home Meals, Cooking Lessons and Catering. Yoga Classes for Individuals, Couples and Groups. Yoga and Dinner Packages Available.
Muse Wellness • 419-350-6301 Findyourmuse@yahoo.com
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ongoingcalendar All Calendar events must be received by the 15th of the month prior to publication, and adhere to our guidelines. Visit NaturalAwakeningsDetroit.com for calendar guidelines and to submit ongoing events. Beginners Pilates – 6pm. Guardian Martial Arts & Fitness, 30942 Ford Rd, Garden City. GuardianMartialArts.com, 734-266-0565. Qi Gong and Yoga for Real Bodies and Yoga Nidra – 6-7:15pm. Qi Gong is ancient Chinese exercise. No exp needed, provides stress relief and focus. Donation. Yoga 4 Peace, 13550 DixToledo Rd, Southgate. Y4Peace.org, 734-2829642. Core Yoga + Meditation - 7:30- 8:30pm. Come and experience Core Yoga + Meditation in a nurturing environment! $10 walk-in rate. Canfield Community Center, 1801 N Beech Daly Rd, Dearborn Hghts. 313-791-3600.
SWCRC Connections Weekly Networking Group – 8am. Free to chamber members, one business per industry. Non-members can visit two meetings free. WCCC-Downriver Campus, 21000 Northline Rd – Conference Room 8, Taylor.
Awaken Internal Organs – 11:30am-12:30pm. Learn ancient & new ways to acknowledge & awaken your internal organs. Andrea will explore with you ways of breaking through blockages within the body by using tools such as meditation, breathwork and sound healing. Feel grounded and more alive. $10/class. Kandascent Temple of Love, 8325 E Jefferson – Indian Village, Detroit. 313-286-5426 Empathic Mystic Movement – 6-7:30pm. Makeeba will help you learn to allow yourself to fully engage body, mind, soul, and spirit while combining music, movement, colors, and meditation. Begin to create our best lives. $10 Kandascent Temple of Love, 8325 E Jefferson Ave - Indian Village, Detroit. 313-286-5426
Qigong – 5:30pm. Harmonize your body and relieve stress w/this ancient Chinese practice of meditation through movement w/instructor Terrell Thomas. Open to all fitness levels, first class is free. New Center Yoga, 6080 Woodward Ave, Detroit. NewCenterYoga.com, 248-7036971 or 313-815-0007. Tai Chi – 6-7pm. $5. Canton Ctr Chiropractic Clinic, 6231 N Canton Ctr Rd, Ste 109, Canton. 734-455-6767. Budokon Flow – 6:15-7:15pm. Experience movements that fuse the yogic, martial & living arts. 1st wk free. Practice Yoga, 20792 Mack Ave, Grosse Pte Wds. Practice-Yoga.net, 313881-2874.
Canton Communicators Club – 6:30pm. Learn to become a better communicator and improve public speaking abilities! Canton Coney Island, 8533 Lilly Rd, Canton. Canton.FreeToastHost. com, 734-994-0569.
Community Yoga at Living Waters Yoga 7-8pm. All-levels class. Dedicated Christian Yoga Studio. Free/Donation. Living Waters Yoga, 63 Kercheval, Ste 20, Grosse Pointe Farms. LivingWatersYoga.com, 313-884-4465.
Community Share Dinner & Activities – 6:30-8pm. Join us for a delicious catered meal, followed by contemporary worship, Bible study, classes, music, cards, and crafts. Please sign up for dinner each week. Suggested cost is $6 per adult, $4 for 4-14, 3 and under free. This catered, full meal is “pay-what-you-can”. Allen Park Presbyterian Church, 7101 Park Ave, Allen Park. AllenParkChurch.org, 313-383-0100.
Cardio Kickboxing – 7:45-8:45pm. Ages 13 and up. $5. Michigan Karate Academy, 23753 Van Born Rd, Taylor. 313-292-9214. Prenatal Yoga – 7:45-8:45pm. $14. Northville Yoga Center, 200 S Main St Unit B, Northville. NorthvilleYogaCenter.com, 248-449-9642.
savethedate SWCRC Connections Weekly Networking Group – 8am. Free to chamber members, one business per industry. Non-members can visit two mtgs free. Best Western/Greenfield Inn “The Pink Palace” Packard Room, 3000 Enterprise Dr, Allen Park. Mark Slagle, 734671-5888. Chakra Yoga at Taylor Yoga – 11am-12pm. One-hr vinyasa yoga class led by certified yoga instructor Courtney Conover. Experience a practice that’s designed to help balance chakras, includes both standing and seated yoga postures. All levels are welcome. $14. Taylor Yoga, 8935 Telegraph Rd, Taylor. TaylorYoga.com
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NaturalAwakeningsDetroit.com
Adult Fit-To-Tumble Exercise Class – 8:30-9:30pm. Increase upper body strength and flexibility th rou gh bas ic gymnas tic skills, practicing balance and coordination drills in a fun atmosphere for adults. $10 per class – drop in fee. Register with Lynn at 313-268-7232 or lynn8191@gmail.com Sokol Detroit Gymnastics, 23600 W Warren Ave, Dearborn Heights.
Vinyasa Yoga - 9-10:15am. Flowing sequence, suitable for all levels. $14. Taylor Yoga, 8935 Telegraph Rd, Taylor. TaylorYoga.com, 313292-9642. Zommer Yoga - 10:30-11:30am. Chair Yoga. Safe, low-impact workout with cross training benefits. Enhance flexibility, mobility, bone density, and strength. Good for active seniors. $10. Mind Body Balance, 105 E Front St, Ste 304, Monroe. MindBodyBalance.com, 734457-9003. Slow Flow Yoga - 11:30am-12:15pm. Beginning students and moderate pace. Introduction to vinyasa. Gentle flow working toward an advanced beginner class. All levels. $10. Mind Body Balance, 105 E Front St, Ste 304, Monroe. MindBodyBalance.com, 734-457-9003. Yin Yoga - 11:45am-12:30pm. Suitable for almost all levels of students, the yin practice is a unique quality of challenge and surrender that works to stretch not only the muscles, but the connective tissues as well. $15. BE NICE Yoga Studio, 4100 Woodward Ave, Detroit. BeNiceYoga.com, 313-544-9787.
Beginner/Adv Beginner Yoga - 5:30-6:30pm. Combine beginner and advance beginner poses in a hatha vinysasa style. $10. Mind Body Balance, 105 E Front St, Ste 304, Monroe. MindBodyBalance.com, 734-457-9003. Kid’s Yoga - 4:30-5:30pm. Ages 7-12 years old. Learn basic postures, activities, and games. $10. Mind Body Balance, 105 E Front St, Ste 304, Monroe. MindBodyBalance.com, 734-4579003. Open Gymnastics Fridays – 7-9pm. Sokol Detroit Gymnastics offers Open Gym at their newly revamped facility, drop in fee is $10. Sokol Detroit Gymnastics, 23600 W Warren Ave, Dearborn Heights. SokolDetroitGymnastics.com 313-268-7232.
Detroit Eastern Market – 5am-5pm. Open yearround. Now that most of the local farmers markets have closed for the season, it’s great time to check out Eastern Market. EBT accepted. 2934 Russell St, bet Mack & Gratiot, Detroit. DetroitEasternMarket.com
Qi Gong – 8am. Harmonize your body and relieve stress w/this ancient Chinese practice of meditation through movement w/instructor Terrell Thomas. Open to all fitness levels, first class is free. New Center Yoga, 6080 Woodward Ave, Detroit. NewCenterYoga.com, 248-7036971 or 313-815-0007. RAMA-CHI, Self Help LYMPHATIC MASSAGE - 10-11am. Gain insight to the ancient knowledge and experience health improvement and spiritual development. An easy to learn set of exercises designed to relax, strengthen and balance the body and open the mind to Spirit. Learn to master the principals of meditation and harmonious body movement. $10. Dr. William Brown, ND, PhD, LMT. 31224 Mulfordton St, #120, Farmington Hills. TheFoundationForHolisticHealthTherapy.com, 248-416-3313.
Be sure to re-submit Ongoing Calendar items each month via our website at NaturalAwakeningsDetroit.com to help us keep this listing current and accurate. Our distribution sites get one free calendar listing each month, or you can purchase additional listings at $25 for up to 35 words, or 3 for $60. Call 313-221-9674 for more information.
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communityresourceguide Want to reach readers who are health and wellness focused? Learn how to list your services in the Community Resource Guide. Call us at 313-221-9674
ACUPUNCTURE
HEALTH COUNSELING
DETROIT COMMUNITY ACUPUNCTURE
4100 Woodward Ave., Detroit 313-831-3222 www.detroitcommunityacupuncture.com
In pain? Stressed out? Try acupuncture! We offer comfortable, individualized treatments in a cozy community setting. $15 - $35 sliding scale. Check our website for current specials, “What to Expect” for new patients, and more!
We can’t help everyone, but everyone can help someone. ~ Ronald Reagan
NATURAL CONCEPTS HEALTH COUNSELING Theresa Edmunds, CHC 734-307-3226 theresaedmunds@hotmail.com www.theresaedmunds.com Have a child with ADHD or Spectrum disorders? Diagnosed with an autoimmune disease or glutenintolerance? Suffering from digestive issues? Theresa Edmunds is a Certified Health Counselor who helps her clients feel better and create lasting health. Call and schedule your free initial consultation today.
HEALTH FOOD STORES
Happiness is the
feeling you’re feeling when you want to keep feeling it. ~ author unknown
EDUCATION
34164 Plymouth Rd., Livonia, MI 48150 734-427-3144 Zerbos.com Wall to Wall supplements Organic products & produce Frozen & Refrigerated foods Groceries, Teas, Bulk Foods Natural Chemical Free Pet Products Mineral Based Cosmetics Chemical Free Personal Care products Raw Living & Sprouted Food Section Fitness Section and more.
NATURAL LOCAL FOOD EXPRESS 1192 Ann Arbor Rd, Plymouth, MI 48170 248-231-6533 734-927-6951
NATUROPATHIC SCHOOL of the HEALING ARTS. NATUROPATH DIPLOMA (ND) , AND INTEGRATED THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE DIPLOMA Commutable scheduling in Ann Arbor, serving the Great Lakes region. 734-769-7794 NaturopathicSchoolofAnnArbor.net See schedules, fees, FAQ, Clinic Hours State Licensed school. Supervised student clinic offering on-site clinical internships. On-site Herbal Pharmacy and Dispensary. Naturopathy diploma (ND), Massage Therapy/Natural Medicine Diploma, Medicinal Herbal Studies, Iridology, Homeopathy, Bodywork Therapies, Energy Medicine, Homeopathy, Healing Diets
42 Wayne County Edition
ZERBO’S
NaturalAwakeningsDetroit.com
www.NaturalLocalFD.com Our company’s mission is to provide our customers with products raised or produced using sustainable farming practices. Our beef and bison cuts are heart-healthy meats, high in Omega-3 and CLA (Conjugated Linoleic Acid – a cancer-fighting substance) grass- fed and free range. Chickens are vegetarianfed, and all animals are free of antibiotics and hormones. Cheese is from animals that are grass-fed in an open pasture. Best selection of grass fed meats in Michigan including beef, buffalo (bison) and lamb. Free range and air-chilled chicken. Local chemical free pork and turkey. The very best free range eggs, soy free with no GMO’S. Duck eggs. A wide selection of gluten free and organic groceries. Many fine Michigan made artisan products including raw milk cheese. Open 7 days. Store Hrs: Mon - Thur 9am8pm, Fri - Sat 9am-7 pm, Sun 10am-6pm Free local home deliver ($50 min)
communityresourceguide
REIKI, SHAMANIC SERVICES, AND PET COMMUNICATION
Want to reach readers who are health and wellness focused? Learn how to list your services in the Community Resource Guide. Call us at 313-221-9674
HOLISTIC HEALTH NATURES REMEDIES DR DENISE ACTON, N.D. 734-645-4434 www.DrDSNaturesRemedies.com
Certified naturopathic doctor offers acupuncture treatments, nutritional counseling, massage raindrop therapy, and biomeridian testing for a variety of issues. Advanced training in nutrition response testing for food sensitivities, chemicals, heavy metals, or virus, bacteria, fungus or parasites. She works out of several clinics in Canton or Livonia. Call to schedule an appt today to get your health back on track.
DR WILLIAM N. BROWN, PH.D, L.M.T., C.HT. THE FOUNDATION FOR HOLISTIC HEALTH THERAPY 31224 Mulfordton #120, Farmington Hills, MI 48334 248-416-3313 DrBrown@TheTouchthatHeals.com TheTouchThatHeals.com
Dr Brown is a nationally certified Holistic Health practitioner and teacher for over 25 yrs, he has helped clients and students throughout the USA and internationally. He teaches Ram Chi/Healing Energy and Lymphatic Massage, plus offers these specialty services: Nutritional Consultation, Lymphatic Massage, Thought Field Therapy, Neurological Integration and Clinical Hypnotherapy.
NATURAL PET
www.facebook.com/petra4pets petra4pets@gmail.com
NEW LIVING ELLEN LIVINGSTON, MA, RYT www.NewLivingNow.org www.LivingYogaNow.com 734.645.3217 Powerfully effective LIFE COACHING brings your HEALTH and your VISIONS into alignment. To create the life of your dreams, you need to feel your best. I can show you how to achieve optimum health and well-being by living and eating the way nature intended for us, and as your disease symptoms fall away and your natural energy returns you will be ready to identify and change self-limiting beliefs and let your light shine fully. Call to schedule your free 30-minute introductory consultation.
MASSAGE THERAPY LINDA’S PEACEFUL AND THERAPEUTICMASSAGE (734) 765-1341 linda4massage@gmail.com CUSTOMIZED THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE for you. Designed to relieve muscle tension and the stresses of the day. Complimentary, Essential Oils offered for additional benefits. Ask me about AFFORDABLE PRICES, GIFT CERTIFICATES and SPA PARTY ideas. Serving Southeastern MI at: Shaft Chiropractic Wellness on Mondays, Tuesdays & Thursdays. Avail weekends; call or email to schedule an appointment. ABMP (Associated Bodywork & Massage Professionals).
URBAN OASIS MASSAGE
I am a shaman and Reiki practitioner. I specialize in Reiki and shamanic services for pets that are often used as a complement to other forms of healing. Pet communication can be used to help resolve issues, during end of life decisions, or just for fun. Both in-person and distance services are available. In-person Reiki treatments are performed at Cahill Veterinary Hospital in Flat Rock.
SPIRITUALITY ONE SPACE LESLIE BLACKBURN Dearborn, MI 313.269.6719 OneSpaceConnected.com MysterySchooloftheTempleArts.com
Illuminating the Path of Self-Realization through A r t , Yo g a , S a c r e d G e o m e t r y, S a c r e d Sexuality & more! Individual and couple coaching is available in addition to group classes, workshops and retreats. Browse the website for original artwork and music. Prints, music downloads and commission pieces are also available.
THERMOGRAPHY ADVANCED THERMOGRAPHY AND WELLNESS
Sherry Lane, CMT 2930 Biddle Ave, Wyandotte MI 48192 734-331-0696 UrbanOasisMassage.abmp.com Certified myomassologist and Reiki practitioner. Sherry will work with you to customize a combination of therapeutic and relaxation techniques to achieve balance of mind and body. Integrative massage sessions can incorporate Swedish, myofascial release, lymphatic, and hot stone work. Chair massage is also available for those who need a break in their busy workday. Offering massage, Reiki and doTERRA Certified Pure Therapeutic Grade Essential Oils Gift certificates available, see website for full service menu.
Offices in Troy, Canton, Royal Oak, Ann Arbor, Grosse Pointe, Commerce www.healthybreastscan.com info@healthybreastscan.com Adarsa Antares M.S. Ed. C.T.T. 734-972-8775
Thermography and Healthy Cooking Coach Detect the very first signs of changes in your breast, years before a tumor has developed. No radiation/ compression, 97% sensitivity rate. Images read by specially trained M.D.’s Make changes in your diet to create breast health. Combat estrogen dominance, pre-diabetes, wheat/gluten/ dairy sensitivity
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communityresourceguide Want to reach readers who are health and wellness focused? Learn how to list your services in the Community Resource Guide. Call us at 313-221-9674
WELLNESS CENTERS DR CAROL ANN FISCHER, D.C. N.D. TLC HOLISTIC WELLNESS
GROW Your Business Secure this special ad placement!
Contact us for more information. Editorial + Ad + Event = Results! Call Mary Anne
313-221-9674
31580 Schoolcraft Rd Livonia, MI 48150 734-664-0339 You deserve the best TLC TLCHolisticWellness.com
Dr. Carol Ann Fischer, D.C., N.D. owns TLC Holistic Wellness in Livonia. She is a practicing chiropractor, naturopath and wellness consultant, who for 25 years has provided holistic and nutritional recommendations using whole food supplements. Visit www.TLCHolisticWellness. com for more health information, and free public workshop dates, or call (734) 664-0339.
DR. WILLIAM H. KARL, D.C., CERTIFIED WELLNESS DOCTOR Karl WELLNESS CENTER & CHIROPRACTIC CLINIC 30935 Ann Arbor Trail Westland, MI 48185 734.425.8220 KarlWellnessCenter.com
Certified Wellness Doctor with over 30 years experience, Dr. William H. Karl, D.C., is dedicated to helping his patients obtain optimal healthutilizing whole food supplements, herbs, homeopathic remedies, nutritional consultation, allergy elimination/reprogramming techniques, detoxification programs, advanced chiropractic care, cold laser, and Neurological Relief Techniques for Fibromyalgia and pain management.
KANDASCENT TEMPLE OF LOVE 8325 E Jefferson Ave Indian Village Detroit 313-286-5426
We specialize in Energy Medicine and uniquely blend ancient & innovative therapies, that promote physical wellness, spiritual, mental & emotional health. The very foundation of our treatments & classes will have you feeling energized, purposeful and fully alive. Call or visit us on Facebook @ Kandascent Temple of Love. Experience personal transformations tailored to your personal goals.
44 Wayne County Edition
NaturalAwakeningsDetroit.com
DR SHARON A. OLIVER, M.D. INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE INSTITUTE 18714 Woodward Ave, Detroit, MI 48203 313-368-2284 313-368-4598 fax DrOliverMD.Tripod.com
Dr. Oliver is a medical doctor Board Certified by the American Holistic Medical Association. She has over 15 years experience helping people achieve their optimal health with the use of foods, herbs and natural remedies. If needed Dr. Oliver has the knowledge and ability to help you effectively use conventional treatments, including chelation therapy, intravenous Vitamin C, and nutritional I.V.s. Come experience truly wholistic care!
YOGA YOGA 4 PEACE 13550 Dix-Toledo Rd., Southgate Mi 48195 www.y4peace.org Yoga 4 Peace is a non-profit yoga studio that offers classes on a donation basis. We have a wide variety of classes for every level. We offer Classes, Workshops, Retreats and Teacher Training.
classifieds To place a listing: 3 lines minimum (or 35 words): 1 month $25; or 3 months for $60 prepaid. Extra words: $1 each: Send check w/listing by 15th of the month to Healthy Living Detroit, Inc. - Classifieds, Box 341081, Detroit, MI 48234-1081 or email to Publisher@NaturalAwakeningsDetroit.com.
HEALTH STUDIES VOLUNTEERS NEEDED TO DRINK MEDICAL GRADE WATER. Requirements: age 25-75, desire to eliminate unwanted muscle, joint, digestive or body pain, where traditional meds have not gotten desired results. Must attend one 2.5 hour class, return 6 more times for water, and only drink water provided. Improved health is only compensation. Call (248) 382-8668.
SERVICES BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES CENTURY 21 CASTELLI 734-525-7900Great opportunity for well established swim & fitness center for dogs. Amenities inc: heated pool, agility area w/ equipment, & grooming area w/ tub and dryer. Owner is willing to train & assist. $1000 per mo includes water. Turnkey business. $39,900
GIVE YOURSELF THE GIFT OF LITERACY - the passport to greater opportunities. If you are 16 years and older and need a reading tutor, contact Pro-Literacy at 313-872-7720 or visit ProLiteracyDetroit.org
Write it on your heart that every day is the best day in the year. ~ Ralph Waldo Emerson
You wouldn’t have won if we’d beaten you. Yogi Berra
VOLUNTEERING ARE YOU A MARKETING PROFESSIONAL WHO WOULD LIKE TO GIVE BACK? Put your skills to good use at St Paul of the Cross Retreat & Conference Center. A little bit of your time and effort could really help get the word out about this wonderful community resource. Please contact marcia Sansotta at 313-286-2802 or msansotta@Passionist.org SHORT ON CASH? DONATE YOUR TIME OR YOUR BLOOD!The Red Cross has many volunteer opportunities in the Southeastern Michigan Blood Services Region: Register blood donors at a blood drive, Serve refreshments to blood donors, Assist with office and clerical work at a donor center, Prepare the packs for the blood donors, Pick-up and deliver blood products, And much more! Please contact the Volunteer Office at (313) 494-2862 or email Heather.Johnson@ redcross.org
Diabetes
Arthritis
Canton Center Chiropractic Clinic
Obesity
His information has helped millions
6231 N. Canton Center Rd. • Ste 109 • Canton
Dr. Joel Wallach Creator of DEAD DOCTORS DON”T LIE
(734) 455-6767
www.cantoncenterchiropractic.com
Books, CDs & Nutritional Products Available locally at wholesale www.MYoungevity.com
888-277-2751
Dr. Robert E. Potter, JR., D.C., CTN & Associates Chiropractic & Nutrition
natural awakenings
January 2013
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January 2013
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48 Wayne County Edition
NaturalAwakeningsDetroit.com
START OF ADDITONAL CONTENT FOR E-VERSION
natural awakenings
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49
healthbriefs
ecotip
Keep Tabs on Radiation Exposure
Repair and Reuse
T
he cumulative exposure to ionizing radiation used in medical diagnostic tests from dental and chest X-rays, mammograms, heart health exams and other procedures adds up, often reaching or surpassing the recommended lifetime limit of 100 milliSieverts (mSv) set by the American College of Radiology, according to a recent Harvard Medical School advisory. Among the tests that emit ionizing radiation are computerized tomography (CT scans), cardiac catheterizations, coronary CT angiograms, cardiac calcium scoring and some types of stress tests. Heart tests that pose no radiation risk include electrocardiography (ECG), echocardiography, ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Dr. Warren Manning, chief of noninvasive cardiac imaging and testing at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, in Boston, and a Harvard Medical School professor, advises, “One or two CT scans over a lifetime is appropriate. But if you have a condition that requires repeated monitoring, a test that does not expose you to ionizing radiation may be preferred.” Many radiologists take precautions to minimize clients’ radiation exposure, such as performing cardiac CT scans with one-sixth the conventional radiation dose.
Functional Training Protects Against Falls
S
eniors that integrate strength and balance training into everyday activities experience nearly one-third fewer falls, according to a new study published online by BMJ (formerly British Medical Journal). A team of researchers at the University of Sydney, Australia, designed and tested the Lifestyle Integrated Functional Exercise program to reduce the risk of falls in people over 70. For example, a prescribed activity for improving balance was to stand on one leg while working, and for strength training, squatting to close a drawer. The study found that the average rate of falls per year for those in the program was 1.66, compared with 2.28 in a control group.
50 Wayne County Edition
NaturalAwakeningsDetroit.com
Mending a Throwaway Culture Countries can learn much from each other, and people that know how to fix things now have another model for benefiting their community by reducing the burden on landfills. Conceived three years ago in Amsterdam as a way to help reduce waste, the Repair Café concept—in which citizens gather one or more days a month to socialize while mending clothes and broken household items like coffeemakers and vacuum cleaners—currently operates in more than 30 locations throughout The Netherlands. The effort in sustainability has been bolstered by a government grant, support from foundations and small donations that pay for staffing, marketing and even a Repair Café bus. “In Europe, we throw out so many things,” says Martine Postma, a former journalist who initiated the idea after attending an exhibit on the benefits of repairing and recycling. “It’s a shame, because the things we throw away are usually not that broken.” “I think it’s a great idea,” says Han van Kasteren, a professor at the Eindhoven University of Technology, who works on waste issues. “The social effect alone is important. When you get people together to do something for the environment, you raise consciousness, and repairing [something] gives a good feeling.” The forum harbors two other positive aspects: It’s a way for handy retirees and others to ply and mentor skills that may have been dormant and also saves families the cost of buying a new product, a common occurrence as repair shops vanish along with handymen that make house calls. The Repair Café Foundation provides lists of tools, tips for raising money, marketing materials and helpful insights for interested groups. To date, Postma has received inquiries from Australia, Belgium, France, Germany, Poland, South Africa and Ukraine.
globalbriefs
Nurture Your Business
Zapped Tap
UV Light Cleans The Big Apple’s Water Supply New York City has opened the world’s largest water disinfection plant, using ultraviolet (UV) light as a sanitizing agent to eliminate cryptosporidium, giardia and other pathogenic microorganisms that can cause nausea, cramps, diarrhea and more serious ailments. Fifty-six massive UV units will neutralize waterborne pathogens in all drinking water derived from the city’s major sources. The Catskill and the Delaware water supply systems, completed in 1927 and 1967, respectively, provide about 90 percent of the city’s water. The facility will process up to 9 billion liters daily, adding a second layer of sanitation to the city’s traditional chlorine treatment. While cryptosporidium is highly resistant to chlorine, UV has proved effective at controlling the parasite. Adenovirus is resistant to UV disinfection, but can be killed using chlorine. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency requires that if unfiltered surface water treatment systems don’t filter drinking water, another barrier for microorganisms besides chlorine treatment needs to be installed. The alternative to UV would have been to build a much more expensive filtration facility that passes drinking water through a series of porous materials such as layers of sand, gravel and charcoal to remove chemicals, hazardous materials and toxins. Source: Scientific American
People Power
Modified Bicycles Recycle Electronic Waste Harvard graduate Rachel Field, 22, has invented the Bicyclean device, a contender for an international James Dyson Award recognizing the next generation of design engineers. The Bicyclean helps people in Third World countries separate valuable recyclable materials from the mountains of refrigerators, computers, cell phones and other electronic e-waste dumped in their “backyards” by richer nations. She aims to show that the needlessly harmful process can be made healthier, using simple bicycle technology that can be implemented virtually anywhere. Her solution is to stand up a bike in the normal position, but with the back wheel removed and replaced with an enclosed, pedal-powered, grinder-and-separation system. Pushing bits of circuit board down an attached chute onto a grinding mill of coarse cement ejects crushed e-waste fragments. Magnets collect the ferrous metals, and a battery-powered electromagnetic current pushes away non-ferrous metals. The device is more sustainable, plus it deposits and emits much less pollution into nearby waterways and air than other methods.
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natural awakenings
January 2013
51
wisewords
GMO Truths and Consequences Health and Safety are Question Marks by Melinda Hemmelgarn
T
he food industry tells consumers that genetically engineered foods are safe. On university campuses, agriculture students learn that such genetically modified organisms (GMO) are both safe and necessary to feed the world. The Council for Biotechnology Information, a biotech industrysupported nonprofit, even created a coloring book to teach children about the many benefits of GMO crops, including improved nutrition. Most GMO crops have been genetically engineered to withstand spraying with herbicides, such as Monsanto’s Roundup-Ready soybeans, or to produce their own pesticides, such as “Bt” corn and cotton. Bill Freese, a science policy analyst at the nonprofit Center for Food Safety, warns us to be leery of simplistic claims that don’t take into account unintended consequences. For example, he points out that, “GMO crops have nothing to do with feeding the world, because almost all genetically engineered crops are corn and soybeans... used to feed livestock in rich countries, or to feed automobiles.” Approximately 40 percent of corn currently is used to make ethanol. Freese adds, “They don’t increase yields and they don’t increase nutrition.” But GMO crops have led to a staggering increase in herbicide use, putting both farmers and consumers at greater risk for exposure to these toxins
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and related diseases, according to the Center for Food Safety. So the question is: Are GMOs the panacea industry wants us to believe, or are they contributing to chronic disease? Here are three claims commonly heard about GMOs, generally made by the biotechnology industry and their funded researchers.
Claim: GMOs are safe. Fact Check: Little research exists
on the long-term effects of consuming GMO foods. According to Douglas Gurian-Sherman, a senior scientist with the Union of Concerned Scientists, safety assessments have left us with significant uncertainties about whether GMO food is safe or not. However, concerns voiced by the Center for Food Safety revolve around potential allergens and toxins from both herbicide and pesticide residues and new genetic material. New research from the European Union published in Food and Chemical Toxicology adds to growing concerns about the risks. Researchers discovered that rats fed GMO corn and drinking water containing Roundup herbicide experienced negative health effects during their two-year lifespan, including mammary tumors and disabled pituitary function in females, and liver and kidney damage in males. These outcomes were attributed to the endocrine-disrupting ef-
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fects of Roundup, as well as the genetic makeup of the engineered corn. What makes this study unique and troubling is that it’s the longest such study period to date. Most studies funded and conducted by industry last just 90 days—not long enough to fully document potential harm. Michael Hansen, Ph.D., a senior scientist at Consumer Reports, states in a memo to the American Medical Association’s (AMA) Council on Science and Public Health, “Unlike all other developed countries, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration does not require safety testing for GE [genetically engineered] plants.” Hansen explains, “In addition to the FDA not requiring any premarket safety testing, there is virtually no independent safety testing of these crops in the United States, due to intellectual property rights. When farmers buy GE seed in the U.S., they invariably must sign a product stewardship agreement that forbids them from giving such seeds to researchers.” Plus, “Researchers must get permission from the biotech companies before they can do research, which means there is a paucity of independent research.” The good news is that last June, the AMA recommended mandatory pre-market safety testing to better characterize the potential harms of bioengineered foods.
Claim: GMO crops use fewer pes-
ticides, and those used are safer than most others and break down quickly.
Fact Check: Roundup herbicide is
increasingly sprayed on a growing number of herbicide-resistant GMO crops, including corn, soy, canola, sugar beets and most recently, alfalfa. By tracking the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s pesticide use data, Charles Benbrook, research professor at the Center for Sustaining Agriculture and Natural Resources, at Washington State University, discovered that herbicide-resistant crop technology led to a 527-million-pound increase in herbicide use in the United States between 1996 and 2011. With the growing presence of herbicide-resistant weeds, new GE forms of corn and soybeans have been developed to resist stronger and more
dangerous herbicides, such as 2,4-D, one of the two ingredients in Agent Orange, a defoliant used in the Vietnam War. Benbrook projects that these new GMO crops could drive herbicide usage up by about another 50 percent. According to Warren Porter, Ph.D., a biologist and environmental toxicology professor at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, and Theo Colborn, Ph.D., president of The Endocrine Disruption Exchange, glyphosate, the active chemical ingredient in Roundup, is an endocrine disruptor, meaning it interferes with hormone systems. Porter says we can expect higher levels of herbicide residues in GMO food crops. A report from the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) found that glyphosate is now commonly found in rain, streams and air during the growing season. “Though glyphosate is the most widely used herbicide in the world, we know very little about its long-term effects to the environment,” cautions Paul Capel, a USGS chemist. A Canadian study showing that the Bt toxins from GMO corn are showing up in umbilical cord blood and the blood of pregnant women is another concern. Monsanto claims Bt is harmless and will break down in our digestive tracts. But we have no way of knowing the effect of these toxins on developing fetuses, says Marcia IshiiEiteman, Ph.D., a senior scientist with the Pesticide Action Network.
Claim: GMO labeling isn’t necessary. Fact Check: Hansen believes that if
there are unexpected adverse health effects resulting from consuming GMO foods, a product label would allow people to begin connecting symptoms with foods consumed. Until there is consistent, national GMO food labeling, everyone is just dining in the dark. Learn more and take action at JustLabelIt.org. Melinda Hemmelgarn, aka the “Food Sleuth,” is a registered dietitian and award-winning writer and radio host at kopn.org, in Columbia, MO (Food Sleuth@gmail.com). She advocates for organic farmers at Enduring-Image. blogspot.com.
inspiration
No Dust on the Mirror Reflections on a Life of Conscious Wholeness
by Michael Bernard Beckwith
W
e spend a good deal of time gazing at ourselves in a mirror with the physical eye, as well as into the mirror of our mind with an analytical eye, endeavoring to size ourselves up in our own estimation, and also determining how others might evaluate us. Both of these mirrors are clouded with ego-related dust that distorts our vision. Only when we turn our gaze inward with the intuitive eye of awareness can we perceive our innate wholeness, for there is no dust on the mirror of the soul. Consider this: A consciousness of wholeness reunifies us with our authentic self, so that even during those times when we are unaware of it, our wholeness is intact and utterly dust-free—only our awareness of it is missing. When awareness returns, we live free from ego’s bondage and its ignorance-soaked history and habits. We are reunified with the reality of our being. Our daily practice is to be ever mindful—on the dot—the moment we lose sight of our true nature. Everyday experiences grace us with reminders by mentally tapping us on the shoulder and returning us to the qualities we wish to express in our interactions with our self, others and all of life. We are continually given the opportunity to reconnect with the high vision we hold
for ourselves in our mental, emotional, spiritual, physical, professional, relational and communal life structures. It serves us well to remember that we are here learning to mother our consciousness, just as the universe mothers us throughout our lifetime and beyond. Intelligence, wisdom, intuition, joy and creativity—these are the qualities we want to mother within ourselves in order to unveil our original face. As we set a conscious intention to evolve, we live as the master artists we are—creating, directing and producing our lives. The more time we set aside for meditation, contemplation and life visioning, the more we can have 20/20 vision in foresight, rather than hindsight. Through practice, we activate our intuition, clean off egoic dust and enter a more consistently clear-sighted state of mindful being. Thus we actualize our highest potential and realize our organic, enlightened consciousness. Michael Bernard Beckwith is the founder of the Agape International Spiritual Center, in Los Angeles, California, author of Life Visioning: A Transformative Process for Activating Your Unique Gifts and Highest Potential (Sounds True, 2011/2013), and originator of the Life Visioning process.
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January 2013
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greenliving
FRACKING WRECKS AMERICA’S BEDROCK Clear and Present Dangers by Sandra Steingraber
Current environmental policies must be realigned to safeguard our health, sustain planetary life-support systems and free us from dependence upon fossil fuels.
U
nder the misleading banner of clean and green, the global natural gas rush is on, and nowhere more so than in the United States. We are literally shattering America’s bedrock to bring methane out of the Earth and consuming enormous quantities of precious fresh water to do so, without any clear knowledge of the health or environmental consequences. Due to economies of scale and required infrastructure, fracking is an all-or-nothing proposition, and each state decides its own fate. The Marcellus Shale forms a 600-mile-long basement foundation for communities spanning New York, West Virginia, Pennsylvania and Ohio. As the largest natural gas deposit in the country, it has become ground-zero for high-volume, slickwater hydraulic frac-
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turing, or fracking. Many more states are equally vulnerable (see GaslandTheMovie.com/map). In a two-to-200-foot-thick bedrock layer up to a mile below Earth’s surface, the shale and its captured methane, uranium, mercury, arsenic and lead have remained locked in place for millions of years. Above it lie drinking water aquifers. Prior to the 21st century, capturing methane gas bubbles dispersed within such a horizontal formation, instead of a vertical well, was deemed uneconomical and labeled unrecoverable. Now, modern drills can bore down steel piping, some portions encased in cement, and direct pressure-packed explosions of up to 10,000 pounds per square inch of water, sand and chemicals into the rock,
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fracturing it. Next, hundreds of chemicals are injected to reduce friction (thus the term slickwater) so that the fracking fluid can flow easily. The mixture includes acids, rust and scale inhibitors and pesticides to kill microbes, plus sometimes gelling agents, petroleum distillates, glycol ethers, formaldehyde and toluene. The result is that gas flows back up the borehole along with 30 to 60 percent of the injected cocktail of water and chemicals. The rest is left behind. Fracking a gas well once requires 2 to 8 million gallons of fresh water, 10,000 to 40,000 gallons of chemicals and at least 1,000 diesel truck trips. Wells can be fracked multiple times before they run dry. Between 34,000 and 95,000 wells are envisioned for New York State alone, according to Cornell University Engineering Professor, Anthony Ingraffea, with 77,000 likely over the next 50 years. While New York residents are watching the result of fracking in other states and have elected a temporary moratorium on fracking, Pennsylvania has issued thousands of permits since 2004. Continued unknowns stir debate. Meanwhile, scientists across leading institutions are certain of five universal impacts. First, fracking industrializes rural landscapes, clearing and fragmenting vital woodlands and wetlands. It diminishes capacities to host migratory birds and other wildlife, filter rainwater and prevent flooding while causing more erosion and runoff, sending sediments into waterways. Second, fracking brings urban-style air pollution to the rural countryside. Studies like those from the Colorado School of Public Health, along with monitoring data from Utah’s extensively fracked Uinta Basin, show that drilling and fracking operations release ozone-making, smog-producing volatile compounds. These gases, along with combustion byproducts, are linked to cancer and heart disease in adults and, in children, to lowered IQ, preterm birth, asthma and stunted lung development. The airborne contaminants from gas drilling such as in the Haynesville Shale, in Louisiana and Texas, can travel up to 200 miles from wellheads,
according to a 2010 study published in Environmental Science and Technology. Third, accidents happen, necessitating the evacuation of surrounding communities. In Pennsylvania, in less than three years of fracking, 1,500 environmental violations have been recorded, including an exploded well that streamed poisonous fluid for 16 hours. In many cases, petroleum products, fracking chemicals or flowback fluids have entered creeks, streams or groundwater, according to reports published in Science magazine and The Philadelphia Inquirer. Fourth, fracking makes huge volumes of Earth’s limited fresh water disappear forever. Instead of drawing down a community’s reservoir or depleting a regional aquifer as part of nature’s normally restorative fresh water cycle, a single fracking well permanently removes several million gallons of fresh water from aquifers and poisons it all with chemicals. Much of it will be entombed in geological strata up to a mile or more below the water table. Fifth, sooner or later, the gas will run out, while the environmental damage remains.
Known and Unknown Dangers
Beyond these certainties lie questions. Drilling proponents may claim that there have been no confirmed cases of drinking water contaminated by fracking. Yet in Pavillion, Wyoming, residents noticed a few years ago that their water was yellow, cloudy and oily, bubbled and smelled like chemicals. Some people felt sick. A joint investigation by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry found petrochemicals— including diesel fuel, benzene, cyclohexane, methane, propane and ethane, plus traces of arsenic and a microbe-inhibiting pesticide—in 20 water wells. The EPA recommended that residents not drink their water. Turning on a fan while showering to avoid possible methane explosions was also suggested. Fracking enjoys special exemptions from many regulations—the Clean Water Act, Clean Air Act, Superfund Act and National Environmental Policy Act—that
“The United States and the world could rely 100 percent on green energy sources within 20 years if we dedicated ourselves to that course”. ~ M.Z. Jacobson and M.A. Delucci, “A Path to Sustainable Energy by 2030,” Scientific American, 2009 govern other types of industrial activities. Fracking also gets a pass on federal rightto-know laws, because natural gas operations do not report their air and water emissions under the EPA Toxics Release Inventory. A special amendment to the 2005 Energy Policy Act grants fracking exclusion from the Safe Drinking Water Act, which authorizes the EPA to regulate all injection of toxic chemicals into the ground. Thus, a drilling company doesn’t have to disclose the formulation of its fracking fluids.
Eco-Horrors and Economics
Biologist Theo Colborn and her research team at The Endocrine Disruptor Exchange report that of the 353 chemicals tested as presumed ingredients of fracking fluid, 60 percent can harm the brain and nervous system, 40 percent are endocrine disrupters and one-third are both suspected carcinogens and developmental toxicants. What should we do with this lethal fluid—a million or more gallons with every wellhead? The trend, say gas industry service providers like Halliburton, is to recycle it, but flowback water gets more poisonous with every reuse. At some point, this highly concentrated toxic liquid still has to be disposed of via designated underground wells or municipal sewage-treatment plants or else it’s clandestinely dumped. Then there’s the lure of fracking’s economics. In many cases, a homeowner can receive $5,000 per acre, plus 12 to 20 percent royalties, from leasing land to a gas company. The Marcellus Shale may be worth a trillion dollars and possibly provide enough natural gas to supply the nation’s consumption for six years, according
to the U.S. Energy Information Administration’s most recent estimates. (It’s unknown how much gas is recoverable or how often wells may need to be refracked to stimulate production.) No study of the cumulative impact of fracking on public health or agriculture, including its full lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions, has been conducted; it’s an economic gamble and a bona fide environmental crime.
A Community Speaks Out
In New York’s Tompkins County, 40 percent of the land acreage covering the Marcellus Shale is leased to gas drillers. Local feelings are mixed. Some people just wish the whole practice would go away. Some find fracking such a vile and preposterous idea that they don’t believe it will really happen. Others, seeking personal gain or believing that it’s inevitable, plan to “ride the tiger,” hoping for greater future oversight. At a recent community meeting, candidates for mayor and the village board declared their unified opposition to fracking. Soon afterward, at a packed town meeting on fracking at the village library, someone noted that a nearby community had successfully turned away frack waste trucked in from Pennsylvania that was headed to an old well for disposal. An elderly man declared passionately, “We have to be ready to lie down in front of the trucks.” Take a stand at Tinyurl.com/FrackMedia, Tinyurl.com/FrackingMap and Tinyurl. com/FrackAction (scroll to petitions). Note: Find films at GaslandTheMovie. com; and Tinyurl.com/FilmPromisedLand. Biologist Sandra Steingraber, Ph.D., is the acclaimed author of Living Downstream, now also a documentary film, and Having Faith, on the threat of environmental toxins to infant development. A visiting scholar at New York’s Ithaca College, she often testifies at hearings. She adapted this article from Raising Elijah: Protecting Our Children in an Age of Environmental Crisis, reprinted courtesy of Da Capo Press.
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January 2013
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Raw Food Diets for Pets Weighing the Pros and Cons by Sandra Murphy
A
s with their own food, dog and cat owners are reading pet food labels more closely these days to evaluate ingredients and their sources. American pet food companies may outsource to foreign manufacturers, sometimes with disastrous results. Various brands of dry dog food (kibble) and treats have been recalled for melamine contamination or other problems—even brands manufactured here have been recalled for salmonella contamination. To ensure that what we’re serving our dogs contains a proper balance of protein, vitamins and minerals for overall health, the Dog Food Advisor rates dog foods and treats by brand name, explains the ingredients, including byproducts not fit for human consumption, and recommends the best options. Owners can sign up for emails about recalls and other alerts at DogFoodAdvisor.com. Other reasons to read labels include potential allergic reactions to foods, especially chicken and corn, common ingredients in kibble. The educational website notes, “Corn is an inexpensive and controversial cereal grain of only modest nutritional value to a dog.”
Homemade Meals
To have more control over what
the family dog or cat eats, many owners turn
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to home-cooked meals, but know-how is key. “A big risk with home-prepared diets is that they are almost always nutritionally inadequate for long-term feeding, even when using published recipes,” advises Dr. Brennen McKenzie, president of the Evidence-Based Veterinary Medicine Association. “Consult a board-certified nutritionist for the unique nutritional needs of the pet, based on age, breed, health condition and other factors. Don’t substitute ingredients.” Cooking for pets can be timeconsuming. Some owners have found dehydrated foods like those from The Honest Kitchen, made in the United States using human food-grade ingredients, both cost-effective and easy to prepare. While the purchase price can be higher than other options, the food rapidly rehydrates to four times its original weight by adding warm water. A meatless variety allows owners to add their choice of raw meat, meaty bones or cooked meat and can be suitable for sensitive dogs, raw feeders and dogs that need a unique protein source. “Dehydrated foods are also a good way for a squeamish owner to start a raw diet for their dog,” remarks Dr. Laurie Coger, an associate veterinarian at the Bloomingrove Veterinary Hospital, in Rensselaer, New York, who also offers consultations through TheHonestKitchen. com. Coger suggests, “First, determine what a
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dog or cat needs in his diet, then transition gradually from kibble to a cooked or raw diet. Cats may resist change, while dogs can be more flexible.” Pet food maker Steve’s Real Food is another option as it does not use lamb, pork or venison. Each poses a greater risk of carrying toxoplasmosis, a parasitic disease that can be passed on to pets, especially cats. “If you decide to incorporate raw foods, find a wholesale meat supplier so you can buy in bulk. You’ll need a freezer to take full advantage,” suggests Coger. “Feeding raw is not an all-ornothing proposition, so mix and match. Cook when you have time, feed raw several days a week and use high-quality dehydrated or dry food when traveling.” Dr. Cathy Alinovi, owner of Hoof Stock Veterinary Service, in Pine Village, Indiana, found that switching to a raw diet solved an itching problem with her mixed-breed dog. She reports that, “Eighty percent of the reasons my clients bring their pets to me are cured by changing to better food.” Alinovi points out two drawbacks of serving raw food: “You can’t leave it out all day and it can be a challenge to transport home on a hot day.” But she’s found that the benefits are many, “Dog and cat furs shine and shed less; even their behavior improves.” Dog owners also note cleaner teeth, with no tartar buildup, cutting down on trips to the vet.
Not Everyone Agrees
Feeding a raw food diet is not without controversy. The American Veterinary Medical Association voted last summer to advise veterinarians to recommend clients against feeding raw meats and bones to pets. Pet Partners, formerly known as the Delta Society, which registers pets as therapy animals, has instituted a policy that states, “Animals may not be fed a raw protein diet. Animals previously fed [such] a diet must be off it for at least four weeks before registering them.” (See PetPartners.org/rawdiet.) Deciding which foods to feed our pets requires extra research and meal preparation time, as well as money, but motivated owners like the results they see in their pet’s health. Missourian Sandra Murphy may be reached at StLouisFreelanceWriter@ mindspring.com.