Natural Awakenings of Detroit / Wayne & Monroe Counties Michigan

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HEALTHY

LIVING

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It’s All Beyond Holiday Calcium About ‘We’ Renewals Full-Spectrum Bone Health

Coming Together for Creative Change

Refreshing Traditions

December 2019 | Detroit / Wayne & Monroe Counties Edition | HealthyLivingMichigan.com 1 December 2019

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Detroit / Wayne & Monroe Counties Michigan Edition

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December 2019

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HEALTHY LIVING HEALTHY PLANET

letter from the publishers The Grand Web of Life

SOUTHEAST MICHIGAN EDITION

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n the spirit of the season, we rightly turn our attention

PUBLISHERS John & Trina Voell III DESIGN & PRODUCTION John & Trina Voell III

Martin Miron Theresa Archer Randy Kambic

to metaphysical matters, most notably Linda Sechrist’s

uplifting feature, “The Emerging Power of ‘We’: Awakening to

SALES & MARKETING John & Trina Voell III

the Evolution of Community.” Here you’ll find a compelling

ACCOUNTING Maria Santorini

argument that collective wisdom, collaborative change and

WEBSITE Locable & Hass Solutions

SOCIAL MEDIA Hass Solutions & Trina Voell

CONTACT US P.O. Box 2717, Ann Arbor, MI 48106 734-757-7929 Publisher@HealthyLivingMichigan.com HealthyLivingMichigan.com facebook.com/NaturalAwakeningsAnnArbor https://www.youtube.com/channel/ UCRIOgIjWHjdMaHeTDeKgARg

NATIONAL TEAM CEO/FOUNDER Sharon Bruckman

NATIONAL EDITOR Jan Hollingsworth

MANAGING EDITOR Linda Sechrist NATIONAL ART DIRECTOR Stephen Blancett

ART DIRECTOR Josh Pope FINANCIAL MANAGER Yolanda Shebert FRANCHISE SUPPORT MGR. Heather Gibbs WEBSITE COORDINATOR Rachael Oppy NATIONAL ADVERTISING Kara Cave Natural Awakenings Publishing Corporation 4933 Tamiami Trail N., Ste. 203 Naples, FL 34103 Ph: 239-434-9392 • Fax: 239-434-9513 NaturalAwakeningsMag.com

the need to evolve from a culture of “me” to a culture of “we” may be the key to addressing the major challenges that confront humankind.

and communities; the way we conduct our affairs must come from a place in our hearts.

We need each one of us together to build collective peace, love and unity. Bring your happiness to others—and help yourself in a small, but good way in the process.

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

Aside from the spiritual aspects, hard scientific research across disciplines such as

physics and biology continues to prove that in reality, everything and everyone is linked into a coherent whole. “No man is an island”, and we as individuals do not exist separately from the rest of mankind nor from our planet—we are, indeed, one.

In addition to feeding the soul, we focus on nourishing ourselves with Earth-friend-

ly holiday practices, serving vegan treats, reducing food waste and choosing safe and eco-smart pet toys. Just being a more conscientious helps ensure we have a happier and healthier holiday.

© 2019 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. Please call to find a location near you or if you would like copies placed at your business.

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

Check with a healthcare professional regarding the appropriate use of any treatment.

It all starts with how we communicate with each other in our families, workplaces

Celebrating classic holiday traditions is part of the rich family heritage we pass on to

our children. But every generation has its opportunity to add new chapters to these rituals, which can offer lessons in caring, compassion and conservation.

It’s our choice… the possibilities, and the potential good we can do for each other,

are endless.

We send blessings of peace, love and joy to each of you,

Natural Awakenings Magazine is ranked 5th Nationally in CISION’S® 2016 Top 10 Health & Fitness Magazines

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Natural Awakenings is a family of more than 70 healthy living magazines celebrating 25 years of providing the communities we serve with the tools and resources we all need to lead healthier lives on a healthy planet.

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Contents 14 THE EMERGING

17

POWER OF ‘WE’

Awakening to the Evolution of Community

17 WASTE-FREE FEASTING How to Reduce Holiday Food Waste

18 BEYOND CALCIUM Full-Spectrum Bone Health

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20 REFRESH HOLIDAY TRADITIONS

Making the Old New and Green

22 THE MERRY VEGAN

People-Pleasing Holiday Sweets

24 INHALING THE

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JOY OF LIFE

Conscious Breathwork

ADVERTISING & SUBMISSIONS HOW TO ADVERTISE To advertise with Natural Awakenings, please contact us at 734-757-7929 or email Publisher@HealthyLiving Michigan.com. Deadline for ads: the 12th of the month.

EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONS Email articles, news items and ideas to: Publisher@ HealthyLivingMichigan.com. Deadline for editorial: the 12th of the month.

CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS Submit Calendar Events at: HealthyLiving Michigan.com. Deadline for calendar: the 12th of the month.

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 239-434-9392. For franchising opportunities call 239-530-1377 or visit NaturalAwakenings.com.

26 PERFECT PET PRESENTS Safe and Eco-Smart Toys

DEPARTMENTS 6 news briefs 10 health briefs 12 global briefs 17 green living 18 healing ways 20 healthy kids

22 conscious

eating

24 fit body 26 natural pet 27 calendar 30 resource guide December 2019

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news briefs

Help Organize the Local Health Community

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aturopathic doctor Jesse R. Brown, director of the Detroit Wholistic Center, is calling a community meeting from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m., December 7, at Healthy, Wealthy and Wise for members of the Detroit Metro healing community to come together for networking, sharing ideas and creating a vision for transforming Detroit’s chronic health and resulting social ills in 2020 and beyond.

“Detroit has been rated at times as the unhealthiest and fattest major city in the country and it’s getting worse,” says Brown. “The rates of chronic illnesses are disproportionately high, especially among African-Americans, and the answers are in every home, Dr. Jesse R. Brown kitchen and place of worship in the city. We are also missing out on opportunities to generate wealth in the multi-billion-dollar health and wellness arena. This gathering is for people who see the ways to improve our health and wealth as we rebuild our community.”

Admission is free. Location: 20950 Grand River Ave., Detroit. For more information, call Andre Knox at 313-538-5433 or visit DetroitWholisticCenter.com.

Make Detroit Green Again

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he Greening of Detroit is celebrating 30 years of planting 100,000 trees and community building in Detroit on December 3, with a Grow Tomorrow’s Detroit initiative with a donation of $25 or more.

Each year, The Greening of Detroit nonprofit recruits between 500 and 3,000 volunteers to help plant trees, clean up gardens and parks around the city, and work at the tree nursery. There are plenty of opportunities to dig in the dirt and make a positive difference in Detroit.

For more information or to donate, visit GreeningOf Detroit.com.

Sky-High Party for Sustainability

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he third annual Sustainable Detroit Soiree presented by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) Detroit Region, will be held from 6 to 8 p.m., December 5, on the 32nd floor of the Guardian Building, in Detroit. There will be live music by vibraphonist John Davis, great food and an open bar.

USGBC and Detroit 2030 District members, allies and partners will celebrate their accomplishments this past year and honor awardees for Outstanding Leaders in Sustainability and Outstanding Sustainable Design for their contributions to the industry.

Tickets are $35 to $145 at Tinyurl.com/SustainableDetroitSoiree. Location: 500 Griswold St.

Have News or Kudos to Share?

Email: Publisher@HealthyLivingMichigan.com 6

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New Healthy Cookbook Covers All the Holidays

Shop and Taste for the Holidays

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hef Valerie “Macro Val” Wilson has released her fourth cookbook, Year Round Healthy Holiday Dishes. These 64 whole-food recipes are all vegan, sugar-free and gluten-free. They represent more than 22 years of creating recipes for Thanksgiving, Christmas, Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day, Fourth of July, Labor Day, Halloween and all the other holidays throughout the year.

The cookbook features color illustrations and dishes such as Tofu Turkey, Mincemeat Pie, Chocolate Truffles, Tofu Cheese Ball, Portobello Mushroom Burgers, Grilled Romaine Lettuce Salad and Pumpkin Pie. Wilson has been in the food industry since 1985, teaching vegan cooking classes based on macrobiotic principles since 1997. She offers lifestyle counseling, and is the host of her own podcast, REAL FOOD with Chef Val. Year-Round Healthy Holiday Dishes is available at MacroVal.com.

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he inaugural Holiday Shop and Taste for Charity will take place from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m., December 14, at the Eastern Market. Half of all proceeds will be donated to Forgotten Harvest, which delivers 138,000 pounds of surplus food per day to local charities six days a week, providing families in need with fresh and nutritious food free of charge.

Upon registering at Eastern Market Brewing Co., visitors receive a wristband for discounts from participating Eastern Market retailers. Advance ticketholders receive a free brew line tour.

A partial list of vendors includes Germack Coffee Roasting Co.; Eastern Market Brewing Co.; DeVries & Co 1887; Cost Plus Wine Shoppe; 3 Dogs 1 Cat; and Detroit Vineyards.

Tickets are $20 in advance at Tinyurl.com/HolidayShopAndTaste or at Eastern Market from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Dec. 14. Location: 2934 Russell St., Detroit.

December 2019

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cover artist

news briefs

Motown Musician Accelerator

M

Angel of Forgiveness

by N.A. Noël Nancy Noël’s art has been described as having the power to heal, inform, transform and inspire. Working in a variety of mediums, the world-renowned contemporary realist understands how to capture the essence of her subjects, depicting them with a reverence that lifts the spirit and comforts the heart.

Her sensitive portraits of animals and Amish children first made Noël a household name. Today, her images hang in the homes of world leaders, as well as ordinary people. “Portraiture is not the art of replicating,” remarks Noël. “It is the art of capturing, capturing the soul in stillness.”

Noël believes that everything we do, think and see is influenced by spirit, which explains her affinity for angels, another favorite subject. “Humans have an innate connection with the entire universe, and angels suggest the spirit that surrounds all creation,” she says. Her angelic messengers float ethereally on canvas, inviting us to see beyond the painting into another dimension of spirit and self-awareness.

Artist, author and active philanthropist Nancy Noël lives and works in The Sanctuary, a renovated 1800s church in Zionsville, IN. Connect with her and view her portfolio at NANoel.com.

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otown Musician Accelerator is completely free. Participation requires no equity, fees, revenue or residuals.

It is generously funded by community members that believe a growing music scene is important to Detroit’s cultural vibrancy. Their 12-week program provides coaching, mentoring, industry networking and grants to cohorts of four musicians or bands. It ends with a showcase where the artists perform for music industry professionals, supporters and community members. Detroit-area musicians and bands of any genre may apply.

The four selected artists each receive a $20,000 budget toward building their career.

During the first three months, artists create new music and content. The Motown Musician Accelerator team facilitates introductions to potential collaborators, studios, photographers, videographers and other industry experts for the artists to collaborate with during this phase. Each cohort takes a group trip to Los Angeles and New York, and will be connected to experts in the music industry.

Throughout the program, the Motown Musician Accelerator team works individually to map career growth and plan out the next year of their career, focused on driving sustaining revenue and heightening the profile of each artist.

For more information, visit MotownMusicianAccelerator.com.

Plan to Succeed As an Entrepreneur

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enith Solutions and Build Institute will present a Wealth Creation Workshop from 6 to 7:30 p.m., December 10, to help attendees to take control of their personal finances and feel more confident about their abilities to create wealth as entrepreneurs.

The first step to starting a business is having personal finances under control to weather the startup phase. By choosing to attend this workshop, participants have made the decision to take control of their finances. This course will help create a go-forward financial fitness plan.

Topics include financial consolidation and understanding why net worth is important; creating financial goals; developing a financial plan; and integrating financial strategies to achieve goals and start a business.

Admission is $25. Location: 1620 Michigan Ave., Ste, 120, Detroit. For more information, email Evan Adams at Kiva@BuildInstitute.org.

Visit the Past and Buy a House

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he 45th Annual Holiday Home Tour hosted by Historic Boston-Edison Detroit is taking place from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., December 15.

The Boston-Edison Historic District is an instantly recognizable address in the heart of Detroit, containing over 900 homes. Most

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homes were constructed between 1905 and 1925 and range in size from modest two-story vernaculars to impressive mansions. Early residents of Boston-Edison included Henry Ford, James Couzens, Horace Rackham, Sebastian Kresge and Joe Louis.

WOULD YOU LIKE TO MAKE A

HEALTHY INCOME?

Admission is free with preregistration at HistoricBostonEdison.org.

event spotlight

A Weekend of Self-Discovery and Cleansing

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ong of the Morning will host a yoga retreat, Letting Go, Beginning Again: Practical Tools for Hard Times, with David M. Hall from 5 p.m., December 27, to 2 p.m., December 29, in Vanderbilt, Michigan.

This annual retreat centers on a practical approach to the David M. Hall science behind spirituality.

This weekend is designed to be accessible to those on all levels of personal practice, path and belief system. Participants will have the support and guidance to refine, reset, establish and deeper their practice, wherever they are at in their journey.

The group will enjoy a dynamic, focused flow to move energy, clarify, balance and ground. Through a series of proven, scientific techniques drawn from spiritual traditions across the planet, they will explore the inner world together and dissolve the illusory barrier between the outer world. Based on basic principles found in nature and exemplified by the permaculture movement, the way to return to a simpler, natural way of life is not complicated.

Attendees will discover and name that which stands in our way and take steps to face our shadows and blockages. Through the practices of chi kung, mindfulness, meditation, yogic sciences and pranayama, among others, it is surprising how much can shift in such a short time when the effort, intention and focus is there. Creating a safe, supportive space together, they will breathe, process and let go. Together, everyone will share, feel, listen and practice in order to prepare for what is to come in 2020.

Cost is $144; housing and meals are arranged separately. Scholarships available. Location: 9607 Sturgeon Valley Rd. E., Vanderbilt.

For more information, call 989-983-4107 or visit SongOfThe Morning.org.

Have an Event Spotlight to Share?

Email: Publisher@HealthyLivingMichigan.com

Americans spend $30.2 billion a year on alternative and complementary medicines and procedures, including $1.9 billion on children 4 to 17 years old. None of it is covered by insurance.

Our goals are to EDUCATE HEALERS, CREATE JOBS and NEW BUSINESSES in the health and wellness industry.

EMPOWERMENT EMPLOYMENT ENTERPRISE ENTREPRENEURSHIP

Wholistic Training Institute 20954 Grand River Ave, Detroit (313) 255-6155 WholisticTrainingInstitute.com

BECOME CERTIFIED IN ONE OR MORE OF THE FOLLOWING AREAS: 4 NATUROPATH 4 HERBOLOGY 4 IRIDOLOGY

4 HOMEOPATHY 4 COLON HYDROTHERAPY 4 IONIC FOOT BATH

4 EGYPTIAN HAND & FOOT THERAPY December 2019

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health briefs

Eat Mushrooms to Lower Risk of Prostate Cancer Researchers followed more than 36,000 Japanese men older than 40 for an average of 13.2 years.

They found that those that consumed culinary mushrooms three times a week had a 17 percent lower chance of developing prostate cancer compared to those that ate mushrooms less than once a week. Participants that ate mushrooms once or twice a week had an 8 percent lower risk. The trend was even greater for those men over the age of 50 and was unrelated to other dietary habits.

Maintain a Healthy Diet and Weight to Lower Cataract Risk A recent study published in The Journal of Nutrition used adherence to dietary guidelines and total diet scores to assess the effects of diet on cataract risk.

The researchers followed 2,173 older Australians for five and 10 years in two phases. They found that maintaining a healthy body mass index (BMI) of less than 25, combined with a healthy diet, reduced the risk of developing cataracts.

Eat a Better Diet to Improve Gut Bacteria Researchers at the University of Hawaii Cancer Center tested stool samples of 858 men and 877 women in Los Angeles and Hawaii with a mean age of 69—regarded as an ethnically diverse study population with varied food intakes. The study found that those with higher quality diets also had significantly better gut bacteria diversity, a factor linked to reduced risk for a variety of diseases.

Diet quality and a reduced risk of developing chronic disease is strongly associated with fecal microbial diversity.

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Reduce Blood Pressure and Heart Attacks With Better Gut Bacteria New research offers potential paths for treatment for the nearly 20 percent of patients with high blood pressure that don’t respond well to medications. University of Florida College of Medicine researchers, testing 105 volunteers, found that the populations of gut bacteria differed between hypertensive individuals with depression and those without depression.

A second study by Italian researchers found that patients with heart attacks had different bacteria in their guts than patients with stable angina.

Train Students in Mindfulness to Reduce Stress and Improve Grades Sixth-graders that received mindfulness training each day for eight weeks experienced lower stress levels, less depression and improved academic performance compared to their peers in a control group that studied computer coding, report Massachusetts Institute of Technology researchers. In addition to that 100-student study, researchers surveyed 2,000 students in grades five through eight and found those that showed more mindfulness tended to have better grades and test scores. They also had fewer absences and suspensions.

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practitioner profile

Healing From the Inside-Out

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r. Jacob Karl, DC, has been interested in natural healing his entire life. He became involved in nutrition and chiropractic at a very young age while watching his father, Dr. William H. Karl, DC. He told his father by the age of 10 that he already knew he wanted to be a doctor of chiropractic. The idea that someone could heal from the inside-out without the use of drugs or surgery appealed to him.

In high school, Karl competed in nutrition competitions sponsored by the Health Occupations Students of America and won awards at regional, state and national levels. He received a bachelor’s degree in nutritional sciences from Michigan State University, and two more bachelor’s degrees in anatomy and health & wellness while working toward his doctorate in chiropractic at Parker University, in Dallas.

Karl specializes in chiropractic combined with functional nutrition to help patients obtain natural pain relief, balance hormones and employ nutrition for anti-aging protocols and adrenal fatigue. In addition to providing chiropractic adjustments, his holistic approach uses many different tools, including muscle testing through Applied Kinesiology, lab testing, whole-food-based nutritional supplements, cold laser, stretches, exercise and pulsed electromagnetic field therapy.

Karl says that the most fulfilling thing he can think of is helping others live happier, healthier and more functional lives.

Dr. Jacob Karl

Looking for a Safe, Natural Face-Lift?

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n effective, chemical-free, surgery-free way to rejuvenate and refresh your face and reduce wrinkles and sagging is available at American Regenerative Clinic in Bingham Farms.

Thread lifting and Ultra V High Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) face-lifts are less damaging, less expensive and more beneficial than surgical face-lifts.

In a natural thread face-lift, tiny multi-strand, absorbable threads are injected to form a sort of scaffold to maximize activation of the patient’s own cells and collagen production.

The sterile threads are of the highest quality and cause minimal pain when inserted. During threading procedure we often add injections of stem cells, PRP, fat, lipodissolve solutions, etc.

Another effective technique, the Ultra V HIFU, represents a breakthrough in technology by using ultrasound that penetrates deeper than the surface layers of the skin to target Dr. Andrey Lutskovsky connective tissues in the face, from a drooping forehead to a sagging chin. Results can be seen with one treatment and can last for months to years. By applying one or both of these methods, facial skin is tightened and lifted, with a short recovery time and natural-looking result, making these youth-restoring options more and more popular among clients at American Regenerative Clinic.

Dr. Andrey Lutskovsky, D.O. and certified functional medicine practitioner at American Regenerative Clinic, learned the thread and Ultra V HIFU face-lift techniques from Dr. Kwon Han Jin. Dr. Kwon holds international acclaim for his techniques and products for aesthetic and antiaging medicine, which he has practiced and trained practitioners in for more than 20 years. He has a chain of Dermaster clinics all over the world. For more info, internet search "UltraV Lift."

American Regenerative Clinic also partners with Elina Organics skincare products (ElinaOrganicsSkinCare.com), which are natural, organic, bio-energized and made in Kalamazoo, Michigan. The product line includes scrubs, elixirs, toners and more. During the holiday season, Natural Awakenings readers can receive 15% off medical aesthetic services and 10% off skincare products purchased at the clinic. This is the season to look your best and give loved ones and friends a naturally refreshed complexion.

Call 248-876-4242 For Your Free Consultation

Dr. Jacob Karl is accepting both chiropractic and nutritional patients at Karl Wellness Center & Chiropractic Clinic, located at 30935 Ann Arbor Tr., in Westland. Natural Awakenings readers receive a 50 percent discount off their first nutritional consultation. For more information and to make appointments, call 734-425-8220.

See ad, page 6.

American Regenerative Clinic 31000 Telegraph Rd., Ste. 140 Bingham Farms • AmericanRegen.com This face-lift technique is exclusively available in our clinic in Michigan.

— Advertorial —

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East Michigan Edition

MichiganHealthyL 11 December 2019

global briefs

Lab Steak

Making Meat Without Animals

Five major food technology companies have converged to form the Alliance for Meat, Poultry and Seafood (AMPS) Innovation, which seeks to create real meat from animal cells without the need to slaughter animals. The founding members of the coalition are both cell-based seafood companies BlueNalu and Finless Foods and meat makers Fork & Goode, San Francisco-based JUST Inc., and Memphis Meats.

AMPS Innovation (ampsinnovation.org) intends to tackle obstacles presented in the cellular agriculture industry and bring products to the consumer faster with transparency and proper regulatory frameworks for cell-based products. Each member company has made significant strides in the development of these products with the hope they will soon be options in the everyday diets of individuals, as well as a nutrition source for a human population projected to grow to 10 billion by 2050.

Nature Cure

Forests and Shrubs Lower Medical Costs

A new study based on the National Land Cover Database of 3,086 of the 3,103 counties in the continental U.S. published in the journal Urban Forestry and Urban Greening found that increases in forest and shrub cover corresponded to decreases in Medicare health care spending, even when accounting for economic, geographic or other factors that might independently influence healthcare costs.

Urban and rural counties with the lowest socioeconomic status appeared to benefit the most from increases in forests and shrubs. University of Illinois graduate student Douglas A. Becker, who led the new research with Matt Browning, a professor of recreation, sports and tourism, says, “It occurred to me that low-income communities are getting the biggest bang for their buck because they probably have the most to gain.”

Other studies have shown that people in intensive care units recover more quickly and have fewer complications after surgery if their hospital rooms look out over trees rather than parking lots and that forest walks can influence potentially health-promoting hormone levels or anti-cancer immune cells in the blood.

Charge It

Electric Vehicles Get Their Own ‘Gas’ Station

The RS Automotive gas station, in Takoma Park, Maryland, has been around since 1958, and Depeswar Doley has been running it for 22 years. Now, frustrated by the complicated rules, requirements

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Detroit / Wayne & Monroe Counties Michigan Edition

and contracts of oil and gas companies, he has completely transitioned away from offering petroleum and become the country’s first exclusively electric vehicle (EV) charging station.

Because there has been a shortage of EV charging stations in the state, the station’s changeover was partially funded by the Baltimore-based

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Electric Vehicle Institute and the Maryland Energy Administration. Its new 200-kilowatt electrical system will now be able to recharge up to four vehicles at a time while drivers wait inside. Doley says, “It’s not something that I expect to become rich overnight or something like that, but it’s a good cause [and] good for the environment.”

practitioner profile

Leading-Edge Pain Relief in Plymouth

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he Wellness Center of Plymouth and Integrative Health Chiropractic have had good success introducing natural pain solutions to the community. Along with chiropractic care, muscle therapy, exercise, massage and nutrition, they have added deep tissue laser and pulsed electromagnetic field (PEMF) treatments.

Because many people are experiencing overuse of medication and complications from surgery, they are using these technologies to overcome limiting conditions involving joints and pain syndromes.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has registered PEMF as a wellness device and approved it for neck fusion, nonunion fractures, depression, anxiety, muscle stimulation and urinary incontinence.

Enhanced bone healing, circulation and immune function, as well as mental health and anxiety benefits, has been strongly supported in the medical literature.

Laser has been well researched and is now used by most major sports teams for advanced healing of injuries and quicker recovery.

Injured people need to return to freedom of movement and flexibility, and these modalities offer quicker healing, reduction of scar tissue and swelling, and advanced deep tissue healing. Circulation and blood flow can be improved to injured areas. Even autoimmune conditions and bone density can benefit.

Clients receive treatments in a comfortable environment from trained staff. They often report immediate relief of pain and significant increased ability to move and walk with reduced pain and stiffness.

Treatments are accumulative, and frequently achieve complete resolution from a few treatments up to a few weeks. Fees are reasonable and scheduling is convenient.

Dr. Elizabeth Sisk

The initial consultation with a doctor and first session is $29, with holiday season treatment packages. Located at 1075 Ann Arbor Rd., Plymouth. For appointments, call 734-4545600, email Dr. Elizabeth Sisk, DC, at DrSisk@ WellnessPlym.com or visit WellnessCenter OfPlymouth.com. See ad, page 13.

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1075 Ann Arbor Rd. • Plymouth, MI 48170 734-454-5600 • WellnessPlym.com December 2019

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THE EMERGING POWER OF ‘WE’ Awakening to the Evolution of Community

by Linda Sechrist

Z

en master Thich Nhat Hanh’s suggestion that the next Buddha would likely not take form as an individual but rather as a sangha, a community practicing mindful living, led many people to ask, “Why a community?” The author of more than 100 books that explore the Buddha’s core teachings on mindfulness, kindness and compassion, Hanh clarified the meaning of sangha as a good community necessary for helping individuals learn how to encounter life in the present moment, resist the unwholesome ways of our time, go in the direction of peace and nourish seeds of enlightenment. Even the best intentions, he noted, can falter without such a group of trusted family, friends and co-practitioners experiencing mindfulness together.

A Migration to Forming Community

Today’s trend toward collaborative processes and opportunities for transformation through online communities is made easier by the availability of affordable video conferencing providers such as Zoom, Skype and Mighty Networks, as well as online platforms like Facebook and MeetUp. Although many groups form for marketing, political, civic or social purposes—allowing participants to share values and common interests—thousands more gather as online intentional communities associated with personal growth and spiritual awakening.

Myriad individuals have been able to experience some aspect of community through international organizations such as MindValley, Hay House, the Shift Network and Dr. Deepak Chopra’s Jiyo, a wellness-focused mobile app intended to extend the reach 14

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of his ideas on health and social transformation from millions of people to more than 1 billion.

In MeetUp, spiritual awakening groups recently comprised 1,113,972 members in 3,631 groups worldwide. Additionally, co-housing communities, spiritual residential communities and eco-villages continue to form around the intention of designing and implementing pathways to a regenerative future.

The Old Story Versus the New Story

The increased interest in intentional communities may hint at a possibility that the human desire for community might be nature’s evolutionary nudge toward a collective leap that helps us to survive a changing climate and Earth’s potential sixth mass extinction.

If so, this possibility needs a new supportive story that includes humans as part of nature, with its evolutionary impulse as a guide for body, mind and soul.

With our modern scientific worldview, when people talk about nature, they typically mean animals, plants, geological features and natural processes, all happening independently of humans. A more suitable new story is cultural historian Thomas Berry’s moving and meaningful narrative in The Great Work: Our Way Into the Future, in which humans aren’t above nature by virtue of superior intellect, but instead are equal partners with all that exists in a materially and spiritually evolving universe. From Berry’s perspective, humans are the eyes, minds and hearts through which the cosmos is evolving so that it can come to know itself ever more perfectly through us.

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Apollo 14 astronaut Edgar Mitchell shared Berry’s perspective. Traveling back to Earth after walking upon the lunar surface, Mitchell gazed out of the spacecraft window, whereupon he was flooded with an ecstatic awareness. “I was a part of the universe I was observing, and I became aware that everything that exists is part of one intricately interconnected whole,” recounts Mitchell, who founded the groundbreaking Institute of Noetic Sciences to explore the nature of human consciousness.

A Guiding Light

Seijaku Roshi, the abbot and founder of the Pine Wind Zen Community, aptly named for its location in a pine forest in Shamong, New Jersey, advises, “People are searching and hungering for community, which is number one on my agenda. If we aren’t talking about community, we’re squandering the moment. Whether it’s an evolutionary nudge or not, it appears that our tragic world situation is pushing us towards an alternative vision for living a meaningful life that meets the needs of people, society and the environment. We are awakening to the fact we’re interconnected, interdependent and need community, which is the spirit and guiding light whereby people come together to fulfill a purpose, to help others fulfill their purpose and to take care of one another.”

Conscious Evolution

Craig Hamilton, the guiding force behind the movement known as Integral Enlightenment, is the founder of the telecourse training program Academy for Evolutionaries. His spiritual guidance and teachings reach a growing international online community spanning 50 countries. “Transforming ourselves in the deepest possible way is, in fact, an evolutionary imperative, and we need to be able to identify the indicators of emergent shifts and participate creatively with change as an evolutionary force. Evolution up to this point has been playing out unconsciously. We’re now waking up and realizing that we can collaborate and participate in an emerging future.”

Hamilton’s experience is that where humans awake to the one that is expressed through the many, they also begin to engage together. “Practicing community isn’t as simple as it seems. In online communities, a lot less can go wrong. The stakes aren’t as high.

People come and go, share and engage as they like.”

A Community of Sisterhood

Laurie McCammon, author of Enough! How to Liberate Yourself and Remake the World with Just One Word, feels certain that humans are evolving. “We were last to the party with our big brains, and now we’re trying to intellectualize our way to an uncertain future without important feminine values such as feeling, intuiting, nurturing, interdependency and vulnerability,” says McCammon, who is deeply involved in the circle movement, in which women gather in small groups to empower each other.

A regular participant in Gather the Women Global Matrix, a worldwide sisterhood that connects thousands of women sharing meaningful conversations and celebrating the divine feminine with the intention of bringing about personal and planetary transformation through cooperation and collaboration, McCammon says, “No one of us can bring about large-scale transformation alone. It’s December 2019

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time to tell the new story wherein our lives and actions demonstrate that together we are enough. Non-hierarchical circles that encourage authentic communication are part of this new story.”

Citing other important circle communities such as Tree Sisters and The Millionth Circle, McCammon suggests that women tap into The Divine Feminine app, which allows them to find circle communities and events anywhere in the world.

Co-Creating With the Intelligence of Nature

Teacher and futurist Peter Russell writes books that are focused on consciousness and contemporary spirituality. His lectures help humans free themselves of limited beliefs and attitudes that belie many of humanity’s personal, social and global problems. The author of The Global Brain: The Awakening Earth in a New Century, Russell posits that the evolutionary process naturally draws humans together. “Humans are social creatures that need community, which I find very energizing,” says Russell, who cites the Findhorn Foundation eco-village, in Scotland, as a dynamic experiment in community.

“Although residents went through hard times, they recognized the need for honest communication so they could attune to one another in loving ways that would allow everyone to work through their difficulties. Today, life at Findhorn is guided by the inner voice of spirit, and residents work in co-creation with the intelligence of nature,” he says.

The Collective Wisdom of Community

An uncertain future is emerging, making it necessary for new and more intuitive methods and spiritual practices for developing

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collective wisdom, human potential and the skills for practicing community. “I’m in the process of finalizing 118 chapters from 90 different authors for a Collaborative Change Library: Transforming Organizations, Revitalizing Communities, Developing Human Potential,” says associate editor Carole Gorelick, who clarifies that spiritual practices are now playing a part in bringing about collaborative change. She notes that several chapters are updated versions of The Change Handbook: The Definitive Resource on Today’s Best Methods for Engaging Whole Systems (2007 second edition), which included modalities such as World Café, Open Space Technology, Art of Hosting, Appreciative Inquiry and many others.

A living handbook for developing human potential and the skills to practice community, Fred Eppsteiner has been teaching Buddhism for 23 years. A student of Hanh’s since the 1960s, he is the founder of the Florida Community of Mindfulness, in Tampa.

Eppsteiner sums up why the next Buddha could be a community: “A better future will be created by people who are living the values they want for the world, not just abstractly using only the intellect.

In community, we ask ourselves, ‘Can I be what I want to see in the world? Can I practice these things mindfully in community with love, acceptance, deep listening, compassion and kindness?’ These are values that every Buddha has lived for centuries, and certainly ones we need to evolve from a culture of, ‘It’s all about me’ to a culture of, ‘It’s all about we’.”

Linda Sechrist is a senior staff writer for Natural Awakenings. Connect at LindaSechrist.com.

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green living

Waste-Free Feasting How to Reduce Holiday Food Waste

by Yvette C. Hammett

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he heaping platters that cheerfully mark the holidays have an unfortunate downside: Americans increase their waste by 25 percent between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The discarded food and packaging burden landfills with an additional 1 million tons of waste each week.

That’s in addition to the 40 percent of food Americans typically waste each year— nearly half of all the food prepared at home or in restaurants. Monica McBride, senior manager of food loss and waste for the World Wildlife Fund, notes that squandered bounty is grown in areas that were converted from natural habitat into farm fields, so it’s also a waste of natural resources.

“Once you start cooking, you realize the impact on the planet,” says chef and caterer Steven Laurence, owner of Vegan Commissary, in Philadelphia. “My grandmother was the kind of person who, if there was one pea left over, she put it in a container and someone ate it the next day. That kind of informs my cooking. The way I was trained, you didn’t waste anything. You used everything.”

In individual households, small changes can have a big impact, especially during the

holidays; all it takes is awareness and a plan.

Frugal cooks can make room for a holiday waste reduction strategy by taking inventory of the pantry and boxing up a load for the local soup kitchen or food bank.

roasted vegetables, and Ugly Vegetable Pasta, made with zucchini, tomatoes and eggplant.

Spoilage is another way food finds its way into the garbage can, and that too, can be avoided, Laurence says, pointing out that most food goes bad because it’s not cooked properly or is mishandled in storage. “Mix animal protein with starches and grains in a container and it goes bad because of two different sorts of enzymes. It is a fuel for bacteria.” He also recommends using as many organic ingredients as possible for longer-lasting leftovers. “We guarantee all of our dishes for two weeks,” he says.

Encouraging visitors to take home leftovers is another effective food-saving strategy, says McBride. “Have Tupperware or to-go boxes you could provide to your guests.”

Reilly Brock, content manager at Imperfect Produce, in New York City, agrees.

“Just like repurposing excess product requires creative thinking, food waste around the holidays requires out-of-the-box ideas to keep impact low,” says Brock, whose company delivers imperfect produce to customers’ doors for a cost savings. “Why end the fun when the meal ends? The best part about leftovers—and the holidays—is keeping the celebration going.”

“Also, make sure you keep food safe,”

Frugal cooks can make room for a holiday waste reduction strategy by taking inventory of the pantry and boxing up a load for the local soup kitchen or food bank.

Then, design a menu with the environment in mind, using portion control to avoid food waste and whipping up dishes that can easily be upcycled into new creations that can be used as appetizers in the coming days or tucked in the freezer for future enjoyment.

Start with the Guest-imator at SaveTheFood.com, a great way to determine portions for a holiday party, says Cheryl Coleman, director of the EPA Resource Conservation and Sustainability Division in the Office of Resource Conservation and Recovery.

The Guest-imator and Save the Food, a program of the Natural Resources Defense Council in conjunction with the Ad Council, tells cooks how much to make to keep guests happy and includes recipes for leftovers, such as Crispy Sheet Pan Hash, made with leftover

McBride says. “The CDC [Centers for Disease Control and Prevention] has a really great overview of how to do that for parties. Standard guidance is not to leave food out for more than two hours. So, as a party planner, make sure you mentally note when you put food out.”

Coleman recommends taking it a step beyond the holidays by joining a movement to cut food waste year-round. She suggests visiting FurtherWithFood.org to learn more. “Through that and additional outreach, we might be able to start to change,” says McBride.

Yvette C. Hammett is an environmental writer based in Valrico, Florida. Connect at YvetteHammett28@hotmail.com.

December 2019

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healing ways

BEYOND CALCIUM Full-Spectrum Bone Health

by Marlaina Donato

O

ur bones are the foundation that supports our bodies and the quality of our lives. Unlike the brick and mortar and bedrock of a building, the human skeletal system is living tissue that breaks down and rebuilds; this constant remodeling demands much more than just taking an obligatory calcium supplement.

Compromised bone health is most often associated with postmenopausal women, but it can also impact men and younger adults. Genetics, hormonal changes and nutritional deficiencies can all foster bone loss. The National Osteoporosis Foundation reports that 44 million Americans have low bone density and 10 million suffer from osteoporosis, facing a high risk of fracture from this debilitating condition.

Fortunately, it’s never too early or too late to do right by our bones. “Osteoporosis can be prevented, and I’ve seen many patients reverse osteoporosis,” says Leat Kuzniar, a Nutley, New Jersey, naturopath. “It becomes more difficult after menopause and if the bone density is very low, but we can always make some improvements in bone health.

We need to assess diet, exercise, gastrointestinal health, hormones, medications, pH and even stress levels.”

Synergy of Vitamins and Minerals.

Walter Willett, M.D., chairman of the Department of Nutrition at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, argues that the daily recommended 1,000-to-1,200 milligrams of calcium is based on inadequate studies, and advises half that amount.

Other minerals may play an equally critical role. The body robs calcium from the bones when blood levels of this vital mineral fall too low; but taking a calcium supplement—especially without co-nutrients—can increase fracture risk. “Calcium supplementation is complex; more isn’t better. Vitamin D is essential for calcium absorption, and vitamin K2 is essential for getting that calcium to your bones and keeping it out of your arteries,” Kuzniar says. Magnesium, phosphorus, zinc and potassium are also allies in calcium metabolism.

Vitamin C, too, is a key player in bone health, promoting collagen synthesis. Nutrient absorption relies on integrity of gut health, so opting for probiotics is a wise choice across the board.

Bone Up on Superfoods. Optimally, the quest for stronger bones begins with a nutrient-dense diet. “Plenty of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, protein and some fats create a physiology in the body to 18

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support optimal bone health. Avoiding too much sodium and animal protein also helps,” says Mary Jane Detroyer, a New York City-based nutritionist and certified dietitian. She underscores the importance of mineral-packed kale, collards, mustard greens, bok choy and broccoli, but warns against oxalate-laden spinach and chard, which inhibit calcium absorption. “Other calcium-rich foods like tofu, edamame, yogurt, kefir and cheese are also good, as well as milk substitutes fortified with calcium.” Omega-3-rich chia seeds, walnuts and other tree nuts are heavy hitters that boost both calcium absorption and collagen production essential for bone strength.

A 2016 Brazilian study published in the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition shows that a diet with excessive sweets and caffeinated beverages negatively impacts bone mineral density in postmenopausal women with osteoporosis. Soda consumption also amps up the risk of fractures. An analysis of female subjects spanning 30 years published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition in 2014 reveals a 14 percent increased risk for fractures with each daily serving of soda, including diet beverages.

Get Moving. High-impact activities like jumping

rope and jogging build strong bones in our youth, but as we age, low-impact exercise is easier on the joints. Mayo Clinic recommendations include walking, gardening, dancing, stair-climbing and elliptical training.

Resistance also yields significant results.

A 2018 Korean study published in the journal EnM reveals that exercise employing free weights, weight machines and elastic bands increases muscle and bone mass in both women and men. American College of Sports Medicine-certified personal trainer Susie Hathaway, in Fairfield, Iowa, explains why. “What’s good for muscles is good for bones. When a muscle contracts, it gives a beneficial pull on the adjacent bones, stimulating the bone-building cells to be more active.”

Hathaway highlights safety and the importance of bearing weight on the feet. “Gravity is important for bone health. Weight-bearing aerobic exercise, such as brisk walking, provides a mild stimulus for your bones and helps slow down bone loss.”

Kuzniar reminds us that with the right care, our bones can carry us through life. “Once we know what factors are at play in the patient, we can address the underlying causes.”

Marlaina Donato is an author and composer. Connect at AutumnEmbersMusic.com.

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healthy kids

Refresh Holiday Traditions Making the Old New and Green

by Ronica A. O’Hara

C

elebrating classic holiday traditions the same way we always have—and maybe the way our parents and grandparents did—is part of the rich family heritage we pass on to our children. These family rituals are binding, grounding, memorable and much more, says Saul Levine, M.D., professor emeritus in psychiatry at the University of California, San Diego.

A survey of 50 years of family research published in the American Psychological Association’s Journal of Family Psychology found that family holiday rituals, as well as everyday routines like family dinners and bedtime stories, build stronger family relationships, enhance children’s health and academic achievement, help teenagers’ sense of personal identity and even boost marital satisfaction.

It’s also natural and perhaps inevitable that these traditions undergo changes over the years. “If people from only five or six generations ago could see our modern Christmas, they’d barely recognize it,” says Brian Earl, host of the popular Christmas Past podcast that chronicles holiday traditions. “New trends and customs become traditions in time; every generation has its opportunity to add new chapters to the narrative and continue the story.”

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For Elizabeth Newcamp, Christmas festivities took an eco-turn for her military family of five when they were living for a few years in the Netherlands, where “Sinterklaas” traditionally delivers gifts in reusable burlap bags. “In an effort to reduce wrapping paper, we now use the sacks on Christmas,” says Newcamp, who blogs about family travel at DutchDutchGoose.com.

dress up and go to a restaurant on Christmas Eve, exchange gifts and then return home to watch a movie or play board games. Last year, they tried something new: staying home, putting on pajamas, eating cottage pie and playing handmade “Minute to Win It” games that Underwood, a professional organizer who blogs at VirginiasEasyLivingSolutions. com, created. “We had a blast; we didn’t stop laughing all night,” she says. “We saved hundreds of dollars and we had a lovely time.”

Lighting red, green and black candles while focusing on principles like unity, self-determination or purpose are key in the seven-day Kwanzaa celebrations; but, “Instead of just lighting the candle amongst friends and family and discussing, I want my family to spend that day exemplifying the principle,” says Vanessa Davis, executive director of the nonprofit African Village International, in Jacksonville, Florida. Now her children meditate, journal and practice mindfulness to learn about self-determination; volunteer or pick up trash outdoors to learn about collective work and responsibilities; and buy something at a locally-owned store and discuss future finances for cooperative economics.

“I was inspired to change because Kwanzaa isn’t really a religious holiday, but it is a darn good way to reflect on the past year and goal-set for the future,” she says.

“Giving children more hands-on experiences for Hanukkah and taking the

New trends and customs become traditions in time; every generation has its opportunity to add new chapters to the narrative and continue the story.

She and her husband Jeff also ask for and give experiences as gifts whenever possible; their 7-year-old son asked if he could organize a little library for their Navarre, Florida, neighborhood. Anyone that wants to send gifts to their sons is asked to find them used. “I don’t think we’ve lessened any of the fun of the holidays, but hopefully we are eliminating some of the waste,” she says.

For many years, Ginny Underwood’s family in Bluffton, South Carolina, would

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emphasis off of ‘What am I going to get?’ makes the holiday more meaningful for the kids,” concurs Pamela Morris, early childhood education director at the East Valley Jewish Community Center, in Chandler, Arizona. Each Hanukkah evening, her family of five lights a menorah and says traditional prayers while also volunteering to wrap food packages at a local Feed My Starving Children event, crafting personal menorahs at a pottery studio, going to see Phoenix ZooLights

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and gathering to make the traditional potato latkes or jelly donuts. “Each night is a focus on family time and welcoming friends to join us,” she says.

By observing and evolving traditions, family bonds can strengthen through time, relates Earl: “By participating in holiday rituals, children are learning about who they are. And by passing them down, parents reaffirm what’s important to them and keep the connection to the past intact.”

Ronica A. O’Hara is a Denver-based natural-health writer. Connect at OHaraRonica@gmail.com.

Updating Favorite Traditions n Instead of buying a Christmas tree or Hanukkah bush in a store lot, get one in a pot that can be replanted later. n Take a family holiday photo, either serious or wacky, and recreate it every year with members in the same poses and expressions. n Invite someone to a holiday dinner that’s not part of the family, such as an international student or newcomer in town. n Cook up a batch of healthy, vegan cookies with the kids and organize a neighborhood cookie swap. n Have a $10 or $20 gift exchange challenge in which everyone competes to come up with the most useful, creative or eco-clever use of the money. n String together popcorn and cranberries to make a tree garland or door decoration, and later drape it on outdoor trees to feed birds and wildlife. n Give kids $10 to donate to a carefully selected charity of their choice. n Take a favorite holiday story, parable or song and have the kids (and adults) act it out with costumes and all.

December 2019

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conscious eating Stick with your favorite recipes that you know are going to be a success and are going to leave everyone’s taste buds happy. ~Pamela Reed

THE MERRY VEGAN

People-Pleasing Holiday Sweets

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by Julie Peterson

he holidays may send too many sugar plums and frosted gingerbread figures dancing in the heads of people with dietary restrictions. Anyone that chooses to avoid highly processed flours or sugars, artificial ingredients and loads of butter will typically be presented with all of this and more at social gatherings this time of year. They arrive on visually appealing cookie platters that tempt with their cute shapes, vibrant colors and sparkle.

Some, like the gingerbread and reindeer cutouts, will beckon with glazed eyes: “Just one,” they whisper. But one can turn into nine and make someone that may normally avoid sugar or gluten feel bodily regrets.

Someone that is vegan or allergic may feel they can’t have treats.

Making healthier choices about food is difficult for reasons many don’t understand.

“People have relationships with food—involving family, comfort and traditions—and they don’t want to give that up,” says James Brandon, of Tampa, founder of Facebook’s Vegan and Plant-Based Beginner’s Community. Brandon says that holiday treats are tough to resist, but staying true to health goals is most important in the long run.

The best defense to avoid frustration at social food events is to bring a dish to share 22

that meets your dietary needs, says Megan Gilmore, the author of No Excuses Detox: 100 Recipes to Help You Eat Healthy Every Day and a blogger at Detoxinista.com. “That way, you can introduce something delicious to your friends, family or co-workers and be sure you’ll have something to eat!”

A batch of simple, delectable, visually appealing and healthful cookies can be that plate to share, a gift to give or something to keep on hand for guests. Keep the focus on simple, advises Pamela Reed, who blogs at BrooklynFarmGirl.com. There are plenty of recipes that will satisfy the sweet tooth and decorate the holiday buffet (until they’re all eaten, that is). Don’t increase holiday stress by trying a new recipe at the last minute. “Stick with your favorite recipes that you know are going to be a success and are going to leave everyone’s taste buds happy,” she says.

Transitioning to a more conscious way of eating isn’t about deprivation or leaving tradition behind. Bring on the new and healthful cookie recipes and name one after your grandma.

Julie Peterson writes from her home in rural Wisconsin. Contact her at JuliePeterson2222@gmail.com.

Detroit / Wayne & Monroe Counties Michigan Edition

Oh-So-Healthy Holiday Treats Peanut Butter Cookies (Vegan, Gluten Free) Yields: About 18 cookies 1 cup creamy peanut butter ½ cup coconut sugar ½ cup brown sugar 2 tsp vanilla ⅔ cup oat flour 1 tsp baking soda ¼ tsp salt ¼ cup almond milk Additional sugar to roll cookies in Preheat oven to 350° F. In a large bowl, cream together peanut butter and sugars with a hand mixer. Once combined, add vanilla and continue mixing.

Add flour, baking soda, salt and almond milk into the bowl and mix for a few seconds, until combined. The cookie dough will be a little crumbly.

Prepare 2 cookie sheets with silicone baking sheets or spray with nonstick spray. Roll the dough into large balls, and then gently roll in sugar to cover them. Use a fork to gently press down on each cookie a little bit—not too much, or they will crumble.

Bake cookies for 12 minutes. Once out of the oven, allow to cool for 15 minutes. This is important, as the cookies will be very soft when they come out of the oven, but they will harden up as they cool.

Store in an airtight container or freeze.

Recipe courtesy of BrooklynFarmGirl.com.

No-Bake Pecan Snowballs (Grain-Free, Vegan) Yields: 12 balls 1 cup pecan halves ½ cup shredded unsweetened coconut 1 cup soft Medjool dates, pitted (about 10 dates)

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1 Tbsp coconut oil ½ tsp sea salt ½ tsp vanilla extract ½ cup arrowroot or tapioca starch Extra arrowroot for dusting, or coconut sugar

I like to add a generous pinch of salt to mimic that flavor. Remove the crust from the freezer and pour the peanut butter filling over the top, using a spatula to spread it out evenly.

Return the pan to the freezer to set.

Place the pecans and shredded coconut in a large food processor fitted with an “S” blade, and process until the pecans are broken down and crumbly. Add in the rest of the ingredients and process again, until a sticky dough is formed. (It should stick together when pressed between two fingers.)

Rinse the mixing bowl and use it again to make the final layer. Combine the cocoa powder, melted coconut oil and maple syrup, whisking well to break up any clumps. Once the mixture has become a smooth chocolate sauce, pour it over the peanut butter layer, and return the pan to the freezer to set until firm, about an hour or two.

Scoop the dough by rounded tablespoons and roll the dough between your hands, forming balls. Arrange the balls on a plate or baking sheet lined with parchment paper, then place them in the freezer to set, about 1 to 2 hours. For a “snowball” look, roll the balls in additional arrowroot or tapioca starch—just a light coating will do—since the starch will not enhance the flavor. It’s just for looks!

Note: If you’d prefer to roll the balls in coconut sugar or shredded coconut, roll them in one of those options before freezing, so the coating will stick better.

Line a standard loaf pan with parchment paper and set it aside. In a medium bowl, stir together the chocolate crust ingredients until a moist dough is formed. Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the lined loaf pan and place it in the freezer to set.

To prepare the filling, you can use the same bowl to stir the peanut butter, maple syrup, coconut oil and salt. Depending on whether you’re using salted or unsalted peanut butter, consider adding more salt to taste. Storebought peanut butter cups are quite salty, so

Once the bars are firm, grab the edges of parchment paper to easily lift the solid bar from the pan, and use a sharp knife to slice the bars into your desired size. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks, or in the freezer for up to a month. (The bars become very firm if frozen for too long, so I prefer serving them from the fridge after the initial firming-up time.)

Source: Detoxinista.com/no-bake-peanutbutter-cup-bars-vegan

Store in the fridge in a sealed container for up to two weeks for best texture.

Source: Detoxinista.com/no-bake-pecansnowballs-paleo-vegan

No-Bake Peanut Butter Cup Bars (Vegan, Gluten Free) Chocolate Crust: ¾ cup ground almond meal 2 Tbsp cocoa powder 2 Tbsp pure maple syrup 1 Tbsp melted coconut oil Pinch of sea salt Peanut Butter Filling: ½ cup creamy natural peanut butter 3 Tbsp pure maple syrup 1 Tbsp melted coconut oil Pinch of sea salt Chocolate Topping: ¼ cup cocoa powder ¼ cup melted coconut oil 3 Tbsp pure maple syrup December 2019

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INHALING THE JOY OF LIFE

Conscious Breathwork

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by Marlaina Donato

ur first breath is instinctual and belly-deep, but as we grow into life, everyday stress and trauma can bring us into the shallows. Mindful breathing can help guide our breath back to its original, healthy rhythm. Both the brain and organs benefit from increased oxygen, and the vagus nerve that connects the two—prompted by changes in the body’s pH levels—releases acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter responsible for lowering heart rate.

Breathwork can improve vagal tone, a major component in a wide range of conditions like depression, pain syndromes, sleep disturbances, anxiety disorders and chronic inflammation. A 2016 study by the Medical University of South Carolina published in the journal BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine shows a lower number of proteins associated with inflammation in the saliva of participants that employed breathing exercises. A study that appeared in the journal Psychophysiology in 2015 found that 20 minutes of mindful breathing at bedtime fostered a good night’s rest for people with insomnia.

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Breathing Breaks

From traditional rebirthing techniques using circular breathing to Middendorf Breath Work for somatic awareness, there are many styles of conscious breathing. The gentler approaches best suit everyday needs and taking a breathing break can actually provide more refreshment than one featuring coffee.

“Many people have found that a regular breathing practice has helped them increase energy and decrease anxiety. It is a powerful tool to reset the nervous system when we’re overwhelmed and stressed,” says Somatic Breath Therapy (SBT) practitioner Rachael Walter, owner of Breathe-Here-Now, in Keene, New Hampshire. Like many forms of breathwork, SBT bridges the chasm between mind and body. “Conscious breathing can also help people access and understand their emotions,” notes Walter.

Pranayama, an ancient technique of yoga that focuses on breath control and employs alternate nostril breathing, can be performed while lying down, seated or on the yoga mat. Kundalini yoga teacher Melissa

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Crowder, owner of 4 States Yoga, in Joplin, Missouri, advises students to start out slowly, three to six minutes a day, and then work up to a longer practice. “Alternate nostril breathing is a great practice for everyone.

As little as six minutes of yogic breathing, as needed, can make a profound difference in decreasing pain and stress,” she says.

Belly Benefits The American Lung Association recommends a variety of exercises, including diaphragmatic (belly) breathing, for conditions like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Engaging the diaphragm is key in breathing to fullest capacity. Walter explains, “An open, healthy breath is one in which we use the diaphragm to initiate the breath, followed by the belly expanding and the breath moving into the chest.”

Most of us unconsciously fall into shallow and sometimes self-conscious breathing patterns at an early age. “During my training, I read that by age 6, we pick up on cues telling us to tuck in our tummies. This simple,

Many people have found that a regular breathing practice has helped them increase energy and decrease anxiety. bad habit begins a cascade of physiological responses. Upper chest breathing can create anxiety symptoms and poor digestion,” explains Colleen Breeckner, owner of Colleen Lila Yoga, in New York City. “Diaphragmatic breathing causes the diaphragm to become flat and wide, and in turn, presses upon the stomach and helps to churn the gastric juices. For this reason, it can aid earlier stages of digestion.”

When used in conjunction with other modalities such as cognitive behavioral therapy, diaphragmatic breathing might be beneficial for irritable bowel syndrome.

Breathing Into Feelings

breathing is a doorway into deep meditation, which can help alleviate anger and insecurities. It can also be helpful in dropping addictions,” says Crowder. “Linking pranayama with physical movement [asanas] helps to release tension and emotions that can be held in the body’s soft tissues.”

Breeckner agrees, “Developing this awareness can help us to move unpleasant and stuck emotions through the body.”

Well-being can be just a breath away, says Walter. “When we open up our breath, we open ourselves to a fuller experience of being human. It has the capacity to bring us into the present moment to access our joy and our life’s purpose.”

The depth and quality of the breath can help us to become aware of emotional states that include “holding patterns”. “Conscious

Marlaina Donato is an author and a composer.

Connect at AutumnEmbersMusic.com.

December 2019

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son, Wisconsin, learned this from her cat, Hazel, who choked on a common cat toy.

“She was playing with a glitter ball and then started meowing kind of frantically, scrambling around and pawing at her face.

I jumped up and pulled the ball out of her mouth,” recalls Easterling. Hazel only gets big glitter balls these days.

natural pet

A New Generation Spurs Change

Perfect Pet Presents Safe and Eco-Smart Toys

by Julie Peterson

T

he pet aisles are so full of squeaking, plush and colorful toys it can make a dog or cat parent’s head spin like a Frisbee. Add blinking lights, flavors, promises of higher intelligence or cleaner teeth; then toss in concerns about sustainably sourced materials, potentially toxic ingredients and varying degrees of quality. The choices are complex.

It would be nice to look for that gold seal of approval from the Pet Toy Regulatory Agency. But don’t bother: There is no such thing. It’s all up to the consumer to figure it out.

The Problem Is Real

Concern regarding toxicants in children’s toys and the realization that they posed a risk of chemical exposure led to regulatory protections. “Similar safeguards do not exist for pets, even though they exhibit similar chewing and mouthing behaviors,” says Philip N. Smith, Ph.D., associate professor of terrestrial ecotoxicology at Texas Tech University in Lubbock.

“Owner education is key to limiting unintentional chemical exposure.”

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According to a 2013 study co-authored by Smith and published in the journal Chemosphere, common endocrine-disrupting chemical toxins in plastics can enter a dog’s body through saliva.

Concentrations of leachable chemicals can increase in older, degraded toys, according to the National Institutes of Health.

For anyone that has ever had a pet destroy a toy faster than it takes to calculate the cost per second, durable construction may be the highest concern. After all, if the toy is vigorously ripped to shreds, pieces may be swallowed. The most immediate issue becomes intestinal blockage.

This is a common problem for cats and dogs with a propensity to eat garbage, plants and holiday decorations. But when we spend good money on actual toys, we would like to think that it won’t lead to surgery. Unfortunately, there is no guarantee. Poorly constructed toys have required many pet owners to watch for the parts to pass through the animal or, worse yet, make a trip to the vet.

Even if a toy seems sturdy, it’s best to observe the animal with the toy. Charlotte Easterling, a graphic designer in Madi-

Detroit / Wayne & Monroe Counties Michigan Edition

The American Pet Products Association (APPA) National Pet Owners Survey provides insight into the demographics, buying habits and other traits of dog, cat, bird, small animal, reptile, fish and horse owners.

The 2019-2020 survey shows that about 85 million U.S. homes, or 67 percent, include a pet. This leads to a lot of money flowing into the pet toy and care community.

Annually, dog owners spend about $124 and cat owners spend about $89 on treats and toys. The survey also indicates that Millennials are the largest pet-owning demographic.

“The pet care community is doing a great job of meeting the demands of a new generation by offering a range of products made from sustainable, recycled and upcycled materials,” says Steve King, CEO of APPA, in Stamford, Connecticut. King notes it’s expected that as Gen Z pet owners begin to assert themselves in the marketplace, we will see more products based on sustainability and transparency.

Shopping for Safety

Experts offer some guidelines for ways consumers can choose harmless toys: 4 Be suspicious of toys manufactured overseas or cheap ones made in the U.S. 4 Contact the manufacturer and ask if toys contain phthalates, BPA, arsenic, bromine, chemical dyes, chromium or formaldehyde.

4 Look for toys made with ingredients from nature (hemp, leather or wool).

4 Find a pet supply store that has natural, safe and sustainably sourced products.

4 Inspect toys periodically for loose parts and watch the pet with new toys.

4 If a pet plays with a toy and then acts oddly, contact the vet.

Julie Peterson writes from rural Wisconsin.

Connect at JuliePeterson2222@gmail.com.

HealthyLivingMichigan.com

calendar of events NOTE: All calendar events must be received via email by the 12th of the month and adhere to our guidelines. Email Publisher@HealthyLivingMichigan.com for guidelines and to submit entries. No phone calls or faxes, please. Or visit HealthyLivingMichigan.com to submit online.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 1

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 7

DIY Christmas Lantern – 2-3:30pm. Create a lantern from an ivy bowl. Redford Library, 21200 Grand River, Detroit. DetroitPublicLibrary.org.

Get Planted! Introduction to a Whole Foods, PlantBased Diet – 10am-12pm. Lisa A. Smith will teach the fundamentals of transitioning to a whole foods, plant-based lifestyle. Receive a complimentary nutrition consultation, enrollment into the Black Health Academy and plant-based refreshments. Living Balanced Wellness Studio, Elevator Building, Ste 110, 1938 Franklin St, Detroit. Tinyurl.com/y2hh4y57.

Jewelry Making Workshop – 2-3:30pm. Make something nice for yourself or someone you love.

All materials provided. Led by Christine Eades of Mahogani Collections. Detroit Main Library, 5201 Woodward Ave, Detroit. 313-481-1300.

DetroitPublicLibrary.org.

MONDAY, DECEMBER 2 Holiday Ornament Craft – 4pm. Make a holiday ornament to decorate your home. Wilder Library, 7140 E 7 Mile Rd, Detroit. 313-481-1870.

DetroitPublicLibrary.org.

Meridian Stress Assessments – 4-7pm. Using the Biomeridian computer, Juli Johnson will give a basic mini-assessment to determine gluten sensitivity particularly related to wheat, whole wheat and whole grains. Free. Better Health Market, 17825 Eureka Rd, Southgate. TheBetterHealthStore.com.

Detroit Waldorf School Winter Faire – 10am3pm. Bring the entire family to celebrate the magic of the season with activities, performances, food and educational experiences. Admission is free; some ticketed activities starting at $1. 2555 Burns, in Indian Village, Detroit. For info: 313-822-0300

MARK YOUR CALENDAR SATURDAY, DECEMBER 7

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 5 Christmas in Plymouth & Mistletoe Market – 12-9pm. Horse-drawn carriages, unique gifts, dining specials, firepit warming stations, live street music and dancing, cookie decorating, reindeer and Santa appearances and more. Downtown Plymouth.

Facebook.com/events/413100866074710.

3rd Annual Sustainable Detroit Soiree – 6-8pm.

Celebrate with your fellow USGBC & Detroit 2030 District members, allies and partners as we celebrate our accomplishments this past year and honor the awardees for their contributions in our industry. Guardian Building, 500 Griswold St, 32nd Fl, Detroit. Tinyurl.com/yx2phyau.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 10 Take Control of Your Future: Wealth Creation Workshop – 6-7:30pm. Course will help you create a go-forward financial fitness plan. Topics: Financial consolidation and understanding why your net worth is important; creating financial goals; developing a financial plan and integrating financial strategies to achieve your goals and start your business. $25.

Build Institute, 1620 Michigan Ave, Ste 120, Detroit.

313-265-3590. BuildInstitute.org.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 11 Michigan Business Coffee Networking – 8:3010am. Join us to have coffee, meet others in the community, business professionals. The event is free to attend we just ask that you purchase a drink. All food and drink 25% off, just mention you’re there for the event. Just Love Coffee Café, 49453 Van Dyke Ave, Shelby Charter Township. Tinyurl.com/shcg78u.

Massage and Reflexology Clinics & Gifts – Dec 13-14. 10:30am-4pm. By advance appt, our student interns will be doing massage therapy and reflexology sessions, $30/hr (cash/check only) Also: 15-min table sessions/$10. Will wrap up your natural health gifts; visit our apothecary; gift certificates. Ann Arbor School of Massage, 6276 Jackson Rd, Ste B, Ann Arbor. For appt: 734-769-7794. NaturopathicSchoolOfAnnArbor.net.

Youth MOVE Detroit Advisory Council – 5-6:30pm. Also held Dec 17. Youth leadership group. All youth ages 14-15 welcome. Free. The Children’s Center, 79 Alexandrine W, Detroit.

Tyanna McClain, Youth Regional Specialist: 313324-8580. TheChildrensCenter.com.

Meridian Stress Assessments – 4-7pm. Using the Biomeridian computer, Juli Johnson will give a basic mini-assessment to determine gluten sensitivity particularly related to wheat, whole wheat and whole grains. Free. Better Health Market, 42875 Grand River Ave, Novi. TheBetterHealthStore.com.

Christmas Pops Concert – 3-6pm. Pierre Fracalanza performs your favorite Christmas classics on The Mighty 4/34 Wurlitzer Theater Organ. Senate Theater, 6424 Michigan Ave, Detroit. 313-894-0850.

SenateTheater.com.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 13

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 3

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 4

Meditation for Beginners: Isha Kriya Yoga – 1-2pm. A simple yet potent process created by yogi and mystic, Sadhguru. Free. Caroline Kennedy Library, Program Rm A & B, 24590 George St, Dearborn Heights. IshaUSA.org..

or ParentGroup@DetroitWaldorf.org.

Healing Detroit with 2020 Vision – 11:30-130pm.

Gathering of healers and those who want to come together to heal Detroit using wholistic methods.

Come together with like-minded people to collaborate and support each other for healthier people, families and communities. This is a free event and bringing a dish to pass or food to share is encouraged. Healthy, Wealthy and Wise Bldg. 20950 Grand River Ave. Detroit 48219. 313-538-5433.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 14 Parent Child Holiday Make and Take – 10-11:30am.

Ages: 2.5-5yrs. Together children & adults will make holiday-themed treats shaped like trees, snowmen candy canes and more. Hands-on class. Will even make some reindeer food, too. Summit on the Park, 46000 Summit Pkwy, Canton. Tickets: Tinyurl.com/y66xb69f.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 8

Holiday Cookies – 12pm. Make pecan oatmeal cookies. These festive, cookies are high in fiber, low fat, vegan, gluten free and absolutely delicious.

Better Health Market, 42875 Grand River Ave, Novi.

TheBetterHealthStore.com.

Intensive Dance Workshops – 7am-5pm. With something for everyone and all ages, WILD Dance Intensive was started in 2006 to motivate, educate, and inspire a whole generation of young and old dancers alike. We are a 1-day dance intensive where the focus is on class not competition. Registration starts at 7am.

Teacher introductions and warm-ups start at 8am.

Detroit Cobo Center, 1 Washington Blvd, Detroit.

Call 866-710-7531 or visit WildAboutDance.com/ wp-content/uploads/2019/09/Detroit-2019-Schedule. pdf for more information.

Mickey’s Christmas Carol (1983) and How the Grinch Stole Christmas (1966) – 4-7pm. Celebrate the holiday season with a double feature with a guest appearance by the one and only Santa Claus. Senate Theater, 6424 Michigan Ave, Detroit. 313-894-0850.

SenateTheater.com.

Yoga for Beginners – 2-3:30pm. Upa Yoga is a simple yet powerful system of exercise that activates the joints, muscles, and energy system. Free. Sterling Heights Public Library, 40255 Dodge Park, Sterling Heights. IshaUSA.org.

December 2019

27

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 15 Raw and Living Foods Workshop – 12-3pm. Join Hiawatha Cromer former director of Creative Health Institute as she shares how the Living Foods Lifestyle has helped to prevent and reverse illness and transform the health of thousands through practices shared all over the world. Prepare for a slimmer, sexier more energetic new you in 2020 starting with Food as Medicine and a healing mindset. Call 313-538-5433

MARK YOUR CALENDAR FRIDAY, DECEMBER 27

Burning Bowl New Year’s Eve – Unity of Livonia, 28660 Five Mile Rd, Livonia. UnityOfLivonia.org.

PLAN AHEAD SATURDAY, JANUARY 5

MONDAY, DECEMBER 16

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 17 Youth MOVE Detroit Advisory Council – 5-6:30pm. Youth leadership group. All youth ages 14-15 welcome. Free. The Children’s Center, 79 Alexandrine W, Detroit. Tyanna McClain, Youth Regional Specialist: 313-324-8580. TheChildrens Center.com.

28

Candlelight Christmas Eve Service – 7-8pm.

Unity of Livonia, 28660 Five Mile Rd, Livonia.

UnityOfLivonia.org.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 31

Temple Community Gathering – 5-7pm. Connect and discuss openly, sexuality, consciousness, spirituality, tantra and more. Free. Ann Arbor. Pre-register: Support@LeslieBlackburn.com. Details: LeslieBlackburn.com.

The Moth: Detroit GrandSLAM – 8-11pm.

The Moth is dedicated to finding intriguing people to tell inspired stories. At The Moth StorySLAM, those people find us. On this night of the GrandSLAM, using words as weapons, they will compete to determine the next Detroit Moth GrandSLAM Story Champion. Senate Theater, 6424 Michigan Ave, Detroit. 313-894-0850. SenateTheater.com.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 24

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 21

4th Annual New Year, New You! Wellness Expo – 8am-1pm. The expo runs concurrently with the Saturday morning indoor market. Free; $10/VIP. Royal Oak Farmers’ Market, 316 E Eleven Mile Rd, Royal Oak. NYNYWE.com.

Miracle on 34th Street (1947) – 8-10pm. Enjoy the original version of the acclaimed holiday classic.

Senate Theater, 6424 Michigan Ave, Detroit. 313894-0850. SenateTheater.com.

Film Viewing: Game Changers – 3-5pm. Join Dr. Brown and members of the wholistic health community as we discuss a new film produced by Arnold Schwartzeneger and Jackie Chan highlighting the benefits of a plant based diet for health and optimum performance. Could this be what you have been looking for? This event is free and open to the general public in the Healthy, Wealthy and Wise Bldg at 20950 Grand River Ave. Call 313-538-5433 ask for Brandy.

Detroit / Wayne & Monroe Counties Michigan Edition

HealthyLivingMichigan.com

ongoing events

stress and tension relief and so much more. $20.

Bloom Transformation Center, 227 Iron St, Ste 122, Detroit. Tinyurl.com/y68tbup8.

NOTE: All calendar events must be received via email by the 12th of the month and adhere to our guidelines. Email Publisher@HealthyLivingMichigan.com for guidelines and to submit entries. No phone calls or faxes, please. Or visit HealthyLivingMichigan.com to submit online.

Heartfulness Meditation – 7-8pm. Unity of Livonia, 28660 Five Mile Rd, Livonia. UnityOfLivonia.org.

friday

sunday

Blend – 7-7:45am. Combines the flow of vinyasa with the guided challenge of slow burn. The pace of this class moves from some self-guided warm-ups into long-held postures that slow the body, focus the mind, and work toward a well-earned savasana.

Citizen Yoga Studio, 1224 Library St, Detroit. 313502-5450. CitizenYogaStudio.com.

Sunday Service – 10am. Unity of Livonia, 28660 Five Mile Rd, Livonia. UnityOfLivonia.org.

ECK Light and Sound Service –10-11am. 2nd Sun. Dominican Center at Marywood, Lower Level, 2025 E Fulton St, Rm 4, Grand Rapids. 248-546-9224.

Eck-Mi.org.

Dance Meditation Technique – 10am-12pm. This 90-min, un-choreographed, whole-being workout is a drug-free, scientific technique and art for transforming tension into creativity. $10. Detroit Kung Fu Academy, 1353 Division, Ste 3E, Detroit.

248-910-3351. DanceMT.com.

Slow Flow Yoga – 11:30am. All-level practice offering an enjoyable balance between movement and stillness that encourages deeper feelings of calm, stress release and relaxation. A blend of guided flowing sequence of postures. Yoga 4 Peace, 13550 Dix Toledo Rd, Southgate. Y4Peace.org.

monday Sunrise Flow – 7-7:45am. Gentle vinyasa that intentionally opens and challenges the sometimes sleepy and stiff morning body. Citizen Yoga Studio, 1224 Library St, Detroit. 313-502-5450. CitizenYogaStudio.com.

Let’s Meditate Detroit: Free Guided Meditation – 6:30-7:30pm. With Sahaja Yoga Meditation we generally sit on chairs to achieve yoga, effortlessly and spontaneously. As such no asanas (exercises) are required, no mat or special clothing. Campbell Library, 8733 Vernor Hwy, Detroit. 315-390-0278.

DetroitPublicLibrary.org.

Yoga with Jane – 7-8pm. Unity of Livonia, 28660 Five Mile Rd, Livonia. UnityOfLivonia.org.

tuesday Chair Yoga – 10am. With Holy Yoga Detroit. Free.

Durfee Innovation Society, 2470 Collingwood, Ste 213, Detroit. 313-437-1549. DurfeeIS.org.

Therapeutic Yoga – 10am. All levels. Perfect for those with back problems, healing injuries, inflexibility, weak abs or back muscles, stress, fatigue, overweight, depression and arthritic conditions. Yoga 4 Peace, 13550 Dix Toledo Rd, Southgate. Y4Peace.org.

Family Yoga – 11am-12pm. With Holy Yoga Detroit. All ages welcome. Free. Durfee Innovation Society, 2470 Collingwood, Ste 213, Detroit. 313437-1549. DurfeeIS.org.

Parent-to-Parent Support Group – 12-1:30pm.

3rd Tues. Also 6-7:30, 4th Thurs. For parents and caregivers of children, adolescents and young adults.

The Sound of Soul: Experience Singing HU – 7-8pm.

Eckankar, 320 E 4th St, Royal Oak. Eck-Mi.org.

An open, welcoming group providing dialogue and peer support. Free. The Children’s Center, 90 Selden, Detroit. TheChildrensCenter.com.

wednesday Cooking Matters – 10:30am-12pm. Help end childhood hunger by inspiring families to make healthy and affordable food choices. Program to teach parents and caregivers with limited food budgets to shop for and cook healthy meals. Free.

Brilliant Detroit Cody Rouge, 7425 Fielding St, Detroit. RSVP: 313-406-3275.

ArtBlock Yoga – 6-7pm. Last Wed. Free yoga in the new art-infused space, ArtBlock. 1411 Holden St, Detroit. 313-871-4000 x 3. Tinyurl.com/y4xksa7g.

The Sound of Soul: Experience Singing HU – 7-8pm. 3rd Wed. Dominican Center at Marywood, Lower Level, 2025 E Fulton St, Rm 4, Grand Rapids.

248-546-9224. Eck-Mi.org.

thursday Better Backs Yoga – 12pm. All levels. We explore different variations and styles of classic hatha yoga postures. Yoga 4 Peace, 13550 Dix Toledo Rd, Southgate. Y4Peace.org.

Parent-to-Parent Support Group – 6-7:30, 4th Thurs.

For parents and caregivers of children, adolescents and young adults. An open, welcoming group providing dialogue and peer support. Free. The Children’s Center, 90 Selden, Detroit. TheChildrensCenter.com.

Wellness Workouts – 6:30pm. Customized fitness programs adaptable for all fitness abilities including body weight, core strengthening, cardio conditioning, HITT and exercise ball lead. Targets upper and lower body issues, create muscle balance and help increase energy. $10; first class free. Wellness Center of Plymouth, 1075 Ann Arbor Rd, Plymouth. RSVP: 734-454-5600. WellnessPlym.com.

Candlelight Yin Yoga – 6pm. With Rae Golematis. A slow-paced, meditative yoga practice, where postures are held longer than in most other yoga traditions. Yoga 4 Peace, 13550 Dix Toledo Rd, Southgate. Y4Peace.org.

saturday Saturday in the Park – 9am-3:30pm. Six miles of Hines Dr will be closed from Ann Arbor Trail to Outer Drive for the public of all ages to enjoy running, walking, skating or cycling safely on a traffic-free road. Free. Parking available at Nankin Mills & Helms Haven Park. Hines Park, 33275 Edward Hines Dr, Westland. 734-261-1990. WayneCounty.com.

Yoga in the Gardens – 9:30-10:30am. Rejuvenate mind, body and spirit through easy yoga moves guided by instructor Connie Fedel of Taylor Yoga. All levels welcome. $10. Taylor Conservatory, 22314 Northline Rd, Taylor. 888-383-4108. TaylorConservatory.org.

Fight + Surrender (Cardio + Yoga) – 11am-12pm.

With Holy Yoga Detroit. Free. Durfee Innovation Society, 2470 Collingwood, Ste 213, Detroit. 313437-1549. DurfeeIS.org.

Posture & Movement – 12pm. Every other Sat. Learn hands-on with Hannah. Strengthening of posture daily functions, proper movement patterns with daily activities & workouts to prevent injury.

Proper breathing. Ergonomics of sitting, standing, lifting/bending and work stations to prevent injuries during your day or during sports. Wellness Center of Plymouth, 1075 Ann Arbor Rd, Plymouth. RSVP: 734-454-5600. WellnessPlym.com.

Optimal Health & Healing – 12pm.Every other Sat. What does your nervous system have to do with health & immunity? Learn how to take your health to the next level naturally with Dr. Elizabeth Sisk. Free.

Wellness Center of Plymouth, 1075 Ann Arbor Rd, Plymouth. RSVP: 734-454-5600. WellnessPlym.com.

Gong Meditation – 6:30-7:30pm. Gong meditation/ sound therapy is a unique type of sound practice that involves using therapeutic gong sounds and vibrations to bring about healing, insight, relaxation,

December 2019

29

community resource guide

HEALTH FOOD STORES

Connecting you to the leaders in natural health care and green living in our community. To find out how you can be included in the Community Resource Guide, email Publisher@HealthyLivingMichigan.com.

ACUPUNCTURE LIVONIA ACUPUNCTURE AARON LI, R.AC.

36616 Plymouth Rd, Livonia 734-469-9149 Contact@LivoniaAcupuncture.com LivoniaAcu.com With a B.A. from University of Michigan in Ann Arbor and a certification in acupuncture from The China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences in Beijing, Aaron Li received the teaching from China's leading acupuncturist Dr. Hu Guang, the primary researcher of Tung's Extraordinary Points: stress, allergies, sinus congestion, depression, infertility, asthma, trouble sleeping, irritable bowel, smoking cessation, fatigue, headaches, migraines, and chronic pains including, but not limited to; feelings of numbing, tingling, burning, cold, hallow, stingy in any skeletal-muscular area of body, and many more ailments. Imagine feeling lighter, energetic and motivated. Wake up refreshed, with a smile on your face and joy in your Heart! We help you become the best you possible with acupuncture!

ALICE HUANG’S NATURAL CHINESE THERAPIES

2939 1st St • Wyandotte • 734-324-1168 1311 N. Main St • Clawson • 248-278-6081 AliceHuangs.com Alternative and holistic healing specializing in natural chinese therapies: acupuncture, massage, cupping, DDS therapy, colon hydrotherapy, foot detox and more.

Multiple locations to better serve you. Make an appointment today.

See ad, page 3.

CHIROPRACTIC WELLNESS KARL WELLNESS CENTER & CHIROPRACTIC CLINIC

Dr. William H. Karl, DC, Certified Wellness Doctor Dr. Jacob H. Karl, DC, Applied Kinesiologist 30935 Ann Arbor Trl, Westland 734-425-8220 • KarlWellnessCenter.com

WELLNESS CENTER OF PLYMOUTH Dr. Elizabeth Sisk, DC 1075 Ann Arbor Road W, Plymouth 734-454-5600

The Wellness Center of Plymouth provides a comprehensive, holistic approach to health and wellness. The cornerstone of health is balanced body systems, and our 5 pillars – Chiropractic Care, Laser Therapy, Massage, Weight Loss and Nutrition – work together to bring your body into an optimal state of balance. Reclaim life and vitality by eliminating pain, disease, and stress. See ad, page 15.

EDUCATION WHOLISTIC TRAINING INSTITUTE 20954 Grand River Ave, Detroit 313-255-6155 WholisticTrainingInstitute.com

WTI

Discover a Healer in You. Make a Healthy Living and Better the Life of Others. State of Michigan-licensed school offering professional certifications for the following alternative health practices: naturopathy, homeopathy, herbology, reflexology, colon hydrotherapy, iridology and many more. Find us on Facebook! Twitter: @WholisticGuru. See ad, page 9.

FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE AMERICAN REGENERATIVE CLINIC 31000 Telegraph Rd., Suite 140 Bingham Farms, MI 48025 248-876-4242 AmericanRegen.com

Functional Medicine is a personalized, systems-oriented model that empowers patients and practitioners to achieve the highest expression of health by working in collaboration to address the underlying causes of disease. See ads, pages 11 and 19.

Holistic caring team of chiropractic doctors will help you return to health through gentle chiropractic, nutrition, weight loss/detoxification programs, natural hormone balancing/pain management, whole-food supplements, homeopathic/herbal remedies, allergy elimination techniques, applied kinesiology, Zyto bio-communication technology and advanced healing modalities including Erchonia’s newest cold laser and pulsed electro-magnetic field therapy (PEMF). See ad, page 6.

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Detroit / Wayne & Monroe Counties Michigan Edition

THE BETTER HEALTH STORES

Locations: Dearborn • Plymouth • Novi • Livonia • Ann Arbor • Sterling Heights • Belleville • Southgate • Shelby Charter Twp • Lansing • Grosse Pointe Woods • Beverly Hills • Bloomfield Twp • Windsor, ON, Canada TheBetterHealthStore.com Vitamins, supplements, organic and natural foods. For more information: See ad page 25.

HOLISTIC HEALING DETROIT WHOLISTIC CENTER Dr. Jesse Brown, ND 20944 Grand River Ave, Detroit 313-538-5433 DetroitWholisticCenter.com

Wholistic health services, colon hydrotherapy, reflexology, massage, body wraps, iridology, aqua-chi footbaths and consultations in nutrition and wellness.

Colon-cleansing herbal products such as Turkey Rhubarb herbal combination formula and Reneu’ by First Fitness.

Lose weight wholistically, relieve constipation and bloating, improve your energy and skin and more.

See ad, page 9.

UNITING MEDICINE AND PSYCHOLOGY 26771 West 12 Mile Rd Ste 110, Southfield

DIANE CULIK, MD 855-669-9355 855-NOW-WELL DrCulik.com

STEVEN FISCHER, PHD, CNC 248-488-5800 YouniqueWellness.net

Comprehensive medical, integrative, nutritional and mental health care; natural therapy for thyroid and hormones, detox, weight loss, autoimmune conditions; functional medicine including gluten- and food- sensitivity testDiane ing, DNA Genomic Wellness; ad dress underlying causes of fatigue, fibromyalgia and natural pain management options; psychotherapy for all emotional and physical problems for individuals and couples; meditation and mindfulness-based approaches to Steven wellness and longevity; The No Withdrawal-Sinclair Method “Cure for Alcoholism” (Curb-Cravings.com).

HealthyLivingMichigan.com

NONPROFIT ORGANIZATIONS MICHIGAN FOR VACCINE CHOICE

P.O. Box 1121 Troy, MI 48099-1121 Info@MichiganVaccineChoice.org MichganVaccineChoice.org Facebook.com/MichiganForVaccineChoice Twitter.com/MI4VaxChoice Voice: 586-447-2418 • Fax: 586-323-4287 Michigan for Vaccine Choice is a nonprofit 501(c)3 organization dedicated to protecting, informing, educating, advocating and supporting parent's and familie's vaccine choice rights.

PAIN RELIEF AUNT ALBERTA’S REMEDY Homeopathic Pain Relief Cream 973-715-9097 Info@AlbertasPainRelief.com AlbertasPainRelief.com

Try Aunt Alberta’s Remedy to ease pains from sciatics, gout, arthritis, fibromyalgia and more. The relief cream penetrates deep into the skin and muscle tissues. Use her homeopathic pain cream for relief. Buy a 4-oz jar for $15, great price. See website for other options.

PSYCHIC MEDICAL INTUITIVE HEALING UNIVERSAL ENERGY HEALING & MASSAGE THERAPY FOR WOMEN Christine Bridges 580 Forest Ave., Suite 3C, Plymouth ChristineBridges2@Comcast.net ChristineBridges2.wixsite.com/website 734-934-7271 By appointment only

Psychic medical intuitive healer with “X-ray vision hands”. Clients that may benefit from her work, includes anyone suffering from an “itis” (arthritis, colitis, etc.), old injuries, anxiety, depression, panic, post-traumatic stress disorder, ADD, ADHD, autism, OCD, sleep concerns, overly stressed, inability to conceive, or miscarriages, babies, unexplained weight-gain or loss, inability to quit (smoking, drinking, abusing yourself), chronic fatigue, energy maintenance for balance, chronic diseases, including cancer and autoimmune disorders. See ad on page 24.

REFLEXOLOGY R3 REFLEXOLOGY (RELIEVE, RELEASE, RESTORE)

Kristi Holmes, Nationally Board Certified Reflexologist 689 N Mill St Ste#103 Plymouth 248-872-3042 (Call or Text) From head to toe, anxiety to vertigo, reflexology can help. Reflexology is a science, acknowledged by the National Institute of Health, based on the principle that there are reflexes in the hands and the feet that correspond with every gland, organ and part of the body. I received my initial Certification in hands and feet from Branch Reflexology Institute before going on to receive my National Board Certification. I am privileged to work with a variety of clients—men, women and children of all ages and the results I see from reflexology both personally and professionally continue to amaze me.

JANUARY

HEALTHY LIFESTYLES ISSUE

Coming Next Month

Healthy Immune System

Plus: Age-Defying Habits

REGENERATIVE MEDICINE AMERICAN REGENERATIVE CLINIC 31000 Telegraph Rd., Suite 140 Bingham Farms, MI 48025 248-876-4242 AmericanRegen.com

Dr. Andrey uses Stem Cell Therapy, PRP, Prolotherapy and Ten Pass Ozone Therapy to restore the body’s function, heal damaged tissues. He successfully performs innovative aesthetic procedures to return patients youth without surgery. See ads, pages 11 and 19.

RETREAT CENTERS SONG OF THE MORNING YOGA RETREAT CENTER 9607 Sturgeon Valley Rd, Vanderbilt 989-983-4107 Office@SongOfTheMorning.org SongOfTheMorning.org

Find spiritual refreshment amongst 800 acres of natural beauty for your own personal retreat or participate in workshops, yoga classes, meditations or Sunday Service. Accommodations and gourmet vegetarian meals available.

SPIRITUALITY SACRED SEXUALITY WITH LESLIE BLACKBURN 313-269-6719 LeslieBlackburn.com

Offering speaking engagements (including keynote addresses), private sessions, classes, online live webinars, radio shows, video casts and more. Leslie speaks from a place of joy, wisdom and giggles!

Leslie, MS, is a Sacred Sexual Healer and Transformational Guide—a leading educator and coach of sacred sexuality and tantra in the U.S. See website and send email to learn more.

To advertise or participate in our next issue, call

734-757-7929 December 2019

31

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32

Detroit / Wayne & Monroe Counties Michigan Edition

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