Natural Awakenings of Greater Ann Arbor Michigan - January 2022

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HEALTHY

LIVING

HEALTHY

PLANET

2022

HEALTH & WELLNESS TRENDS

January 2022 | Greater Ann Arbor | HealthyLivingMichigan.com

January 2022

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Nature’s Virus Killer

not a sniffle!” she exclaimed.

Businesswoman Rosaleen says when people around her show signs of cold or flu, she uses copper morning and night.

“It saved me last holidays,” she said.

“The kids had crud going round and round, but not me.”

Attorney Donna Blight tried copper for her sinus. “I am shocked!” she said.

By Doug Cornell “My head cleared, no more headache, no more congestion.” cientists have discovered a cold never got going. That was A man with trouble breathing natural way to kill germs fast.

September 2012. I use copper in the through his nose at night tried copper Now thousands of people nose every time and I have not had a just before bed. “Best sleep I’ve had in are using it against viruses and bacteria single cold since then.” years!” he said. in the nose and on “We can’t In a lab test, technicians placed 25 the skin. make product million live flu viruses on a CopperZap. Colds start health claims,” he No viruses were found surviving soon when cold viruses said, “so I can’t after. get in your nose. say cause and Dr. Bill Keevil led one of the teams Viruses multiply effect. But we confirming the research. He placed fast. If you don’t know copper is millions of disease germs on copper. stop them early, antimicrobial.”

“They started to die literally as soon as they spread and He asked they touched the surface,” he said. cause misery. relatives and Some people press copper on a lip New device puts copper right In hundreds friends to try it. right away if a warning tingle suggests where you need it. of studies, EPA and They reported unwanted germs gathering there. university researchers have confirmed the same thing, so he patented The handle is curved that viruses and bacteria die almost CopperZap® and put it on the and textured to increase instantly when touched by copper. market. contact. Copper can That’s why ancient Greeks and Soon hundreds of people had kill germs picked up on Egyptians used copper to purify water tried it. The feedback was 99% fingers and hands after and heal wounds. They didn’t know positive if they used the copper you touch things other about microbes, but now we do. within 3 hours after the first sign people have touched.

Scientists say the high conductance of unwanted germs, like a tickle The EPA says copper of copper disrupts the electrical balance in the nose or a scratchy throat. still works even when Dr. Bill Keevil: in a microbe cell and destroys the cell in Early user Mary Pickrell tarnished.

Copper quickly kills seconds. said, “I can’t believe how good CopperZap is made cold viruses.

Tests by the EPA (Environmental my nose feels.” in the U.S. of pure Protection Agency) show germs die “What a wonderful thing!” copper. It has a 90-day full money back fast on copper. So some hospitals tried exclaimed Physician’s Assistant Julie. guarantee. It is available for $79.95. Get copper for touch surfaces like faucets Another customer asked, “Is it supposed $10 off each CopperZap with code NATA25. and doorknobs. This cut the spread of to work that fast?”

Go to www.CopperZap.com or call MRSA and other illnesses by over half, Pat McAllister, 70, received one for toll-free 1-888-411-6114. and saved lives.

Christmas and called it “one of the best Buy once, use forever.

The strong scientific evidence gave presents ever. This little jewel really Statements are not intended as inventor Doug Cornell an idea. When works.” product health claims and have not been he felt a cold about to start he fashioned Frequent flier Karen Gauci had been evaluated by the FDA. Not claimed to a smooth copper probe and rubbed it suffering after crowded flights. Though diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any gently in his nose for 60 seconds. skeptical, she tried copper on travel disease.

“It worked!” he exclaimed. “The days for 2 months. “Sixteen flights and ADVERTORIAL

Copper can stop a cold before it starts

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Greater Ann Arbor

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2022 35-50% Supplement Sale OFF RETAIL 22 TOP BRANDS

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Thursday January 6th thru Tuesday January 11th

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Shop in-store or online at

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January 2022

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HEALTHY LIVING HEALTHY PLANET

letter from the publishers Health and Wellness Trends in 2022

GREATER ANN ARBOR EDITION

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his year promises an intensification of natural health and wellness trends that have been gathering strength

Publishers John & Trina Voell III

over time. Experts predict that plant-based foods, includ-

Design & Production John & Trina Voell III

Editor Martin Miron Theresa Archer Randy Kambic

ing proteins that replicate meat, will grow in acceptance.

Telemedicine, intermittent fasting to leverage low-energy stress and improve metabolic health, and coaching are also

A2 Sales & Marketing John & Trina Voell III 734-757-7929

on the rise.

Detroit Sales & Marketing John & Trina Voell III 734-757-7929

TC Sales & Marketing John & Trina Voell III 734-757-7929

With growing acceptance of cannabis for medical and recreational uses, dispensaries are now commonplace where allowed. Cannabidiol (CBD), with proven healing and pain relief properties, is being sold in the form of oils, edibles, sprays, creams and pills, and may soon be available in cocktails

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

and dietary supplements. Be on the lookout for hemp fiber, recently legalized as a farm crop, to expand beyond clothing lines into auto parts, industrial equipment and building materials.

Fitness buffs are going to turn their attention from vanities such as six-pack abs to

inner fitness goals that emphasize overall health, often using wearable technology like rings and smartwatches to monitor their biometrics. Technology will also keep track of water bottle use, and resistance bands to strengthen muscles are being embedded in cloth-

NATIONAL TEAM

CEO/Founder Sharon Bruckman COO/Franchise Sales Joe Dunne

Financial Manager Yolanda Shebert

Asst. Director of Ops Heather Gibbs Digital Content Director Rachael Oppy

National Advertising Lisa Doyle-Mitchell Natural Awakenings Publishing Corporation 4851 Tamiami Trail N., Ste. 200 Naples, FL 34103 Ph: 239-434-9392 • Fax: 239-434-9513 NaturalAwakeningsMag.com

ing. Check out “Whole-Person Fitness: Current Trends in Fitness Tools” in our Fit Body department to learn more.

With major automakers pledging to stop producing gas and diesel cars and govern-

ments increasingly banning them, electric cars (EV) are in everyone’s future. The good news is that technological advances have extended EV’s range, and prices are starting to close the gap with fossil-fueled models. Find out more in our Green Living department offering, “The Electric Vehicle Revolution.”

Dog and cat food is becoming humanized in the U.S. as pet owners demand for their

pets what they want for themselves: high-quality, sustainably sourced ingredients that are free of questionable byproducts. In our Natural Pet department, “Pet-Pleasing Food

© 2022 by Natural Awakenings. All rights reserved.

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Trends: What Dogs and Cats Will Eat This Year” examines a trend toward custom-tailoring pet food to an animal’s age, breed and physical condition, and choosing it based on ethical concerns.

It’s time to rethink how we connect, how we do business and how we create mean-

ingful solutions for the issues we face in life. As the veil is lifted, we come to find that the only true security lies within ourselves, not “out there” somewhere. With that perspective comes new opportunities for innovation in personal responsibility and spiritual growth.

As our awareness opens, we must remember that we have access to creating the kind

of life we wish to live, and always had.

We wish you all the bliss, magic and hope of a New Year!

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Natural Awakenings is your guide to a healthier, more balanced life. In each issue you’ll find cutting-edge information on natural health, nutrition, fitness, personal growth, green living, creative expression and the products and services that support a healthy lifestyle.

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Contents 20

16 HEALTH IN

THE NEW YEAR

10 Top Wellness Trends for 2022

19 CANNABIDIOL HOLDS MULTIPLE BENEFITS FOR ORAL HEALTH

20 A BETTER

MORNING JOLT

Healthy Coffee Alternatives and Hacks

22 WHOLE-PERSON FITNESS

Current Trends in Wellness Tools

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24 THE ELECTRIC VEHICLE REVOLUTION

26 ZEN ZONE FOR KIDS

Create the Perfect Calm-Down Corner at Home

28 PETER RUSSELL

on the Healing Power of Letting Go

30 HIGH TIMES FOR THE CANNABIS INDUSTRY

30

Emerging Trends with a COVID-19 Caveat

ADVERTISING & SUBMISSIONS

32 PET-PLEASING

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.

What Dogs and Cats Will Eat This Year

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.

FOOD TRENDS

33 WHY WORDS MATTER DEPARTMENTS 8 news briefs 12 health briefs 14 global briefs 20 conscious

eating 22 fit body 24 green living 26 healthy kids

28 wise words 30 healing ways 32 natural pet 33 inspiration 34 calendar 35 classifieds 36 resource guide January 2022

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Holistic Care

• Mood Support • Cancer Support • Family Medicine • Holistic Medicine • Innovative Medicine • Bioidentical Hormones Marisa Spradlin RD Gaia Kile FNP Danielle Douglas FNP Malcolm Sickels MD 210 Little Lake Dr., Suite 10 Ann Arbor (west side) www.drsickels.com 734.332.9936 • Easy access from M-14, I-94 & Jackson Road • Check drsickels.com for directions & insurance info.

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he Wholistic Training Institute (WTI), Detroit’s only state-licensed school for “wholistic” (naturopathic) education since 1999, Jesse Brown (R), and two happy graduates is offering an online eight-week course to become a certified herbalist. Level 1 classes in Herbology start from 6 to 8 p.m., January 18, on Zoom. Herbology 2 starts on January 19. There will be a free call on How to be the Healer in Your Home from 10 to 11 a.m., January 8 and again on January 15.

Dr. Jesse Brown, naturopathic doctor and owner of WTI says, "The purpose of these courses is for the students to become familiar with the common and botanical names of herbs, where in the U.S. they are found, what parts of the plant are used and how they have historically been used for medicine throughout the ages. They will also learn how to identify some of their characteristics."

Cost is $500. For registration and more information, call 313-538-5433 or visit DetroitWholisticCenter.com/HolisticCenter/training/.

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A Scenic and Tranquil Meeting Place...

We offer the holistic community a nature-oriented meeting space for workshops, meetings, counseling, yoga, youth groups, and family gatherings. Main room accommodates 100 pre-Covid, with two smaller classrooms and kitchen facilities. Hiking trails. Weekend rates range from $200-$400, additional for extensive grounds use, camping. Book your next gathering at https://MFCenter.org/rent “We need to preserve a few places, a few samples of primeval country so that when the pace gets too fast we can look at it, think about it, contemplate it, and somehow restore equanimity to our souls.”

– Sigurd Olson

7748 Clark Lake Road, Chelsea, MI 48118 (734) 475-1892 https://MFCenter.org/rent Greater Ann Arbor

Become a Certified Herbalist Online

Underwater Treadmill Eases Senior Pain

MICHIGAN FRIENDS CENTER AT FRIENDS LAKE COMMUNITY

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news briefs

ppointments are available for HydroWorx aquatic therapy at the Redies Outpatient Center at EHM Senior Solutions, located in Saline. Therapy coordinator/administrator Priya Arunmon says, “Make gains in your mobility and/or fitness level with less stress on joints when you discover how using a HydroWorx aquatic therapy pool leads to decreased swelling, soreness and pain.”

There are many benefits of using an underwater treadmill, some of which include promoting early range of motion; initiating gait training in a low-impact environment; replicating the proper biomechanics of land-based movements to improve gait patterns; improving cardiovascular stamina; increasing healing and strengthening of injured tissues; and impacting muscle strengthening.

Location: 400 W. Russell St., Saline. For more information, call 734-429-1660 or visit EHMSolutions.org. See ad page 27.

Become a Certified Aromatherapist

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argo Hertzfeld, owner of Rosy Glow Wellness Therapies, is offering aromatherapy certification courses through the Great Lakes School for Aromatic Studies, which provides balanced, progressive and inspiring education for a new generation of aromatherapists. Level 1: Foundations of Aromatherapy begins January 9, 10, 23 and 24. This is the only independent and National Association of Holistic Aromatherapy-approved class

HealthyLivingMichigan.com

in Michigan. She also offers Level 3: Aromatic Applications for the Skin.

Hertzfeld says, “My passion is to bring my brand of thoughtful guidance to you through holistic aromatherapy, reflexology and other natural wellness therapies. I strive to be a voice of reason in the sometimes confusing world of natural healing. This course provides you with a solid foundation in aromatherapy so that you can begin or add to your practice, build your business or simply be empowered to care for yourself and your family using the beauty of plant-derived essential oils and other botanicals.”

Rosy Glow specializes in clinical aromatherapy, bespoke essential oil blends and integrated Reflexolo-chi. Consultations are available for creating custom flower essence blends.

Cost is $550. Location: Whitehouse, Ohio. Register at Rosy-Glow-Wellness-Therapies.myshopify.com/products/aromatherapy-certification-course. For more information, call 419-360-0169, email Margo@RosyGlowWellness.com or visit RosyGlowWellness. com. See ad page 36.

Natural Awakenings readers receive a 33 percent discount off their next Booze Cruise or family tour. To book a Boober Cruise or tour around Ann Arbor, download the Go Boober app for IOS. For more information, call 734-686-2087 or visit BooberTours.com. See ad page 31.

Herpes Cream Provides Natural Relief

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Walking the Path of Sobriety

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oober Tours, which provides bicycle taxi tours around Ann Arbor, has accomplished much in their six years of operation, including going from one cab to 20.

Now they are running 11 cabs with motors and full light systems and five tour advertising trailers.

They released a mobile app, Go Boober, on iOS, all while creating second-chance jobs.

Owner Kevin Spangler has also created three programs to keep people sober and give back their freedom—a goal-setting program, 100 Reasons, and Royal Road, which will be rebranded as the Royal House.

He says, “The original 100 Reasons was created in jail. I kept on replaying in my head a parable my aunt always told me: ‘You cant build a house on top of a faulty foundation—your building will surely crumble.’ I read the same books over and over again in jail; Awaken the Giant Within, Awaken to Your Life’s Inner Purpose and Change Your Brain Change Your Life. I realized our subconscious brain is our foundation.”

Kevin Spangler

elia Cahill, founder of Royal John, is pleased to offer natural relief for those that suffer from genital herpes. Royal John’s Genital Herpes Cream is comprised of all-natural ingredients, including echinacea, lady slipper, purslane, goldenseal, lemon balm, witch hazel, licorice, tea tree and black cumin.

“Thirty-five percent of American adults have genital herpes,” says Cahill. “While there is not currently a cure, it is important to find comfort and relief from symptoms naturally with a product you can trust.”

The plant-based, antioxidant-rich formula is designed to soothe sores and temporarily relieve pain and swelling due to genital herpes. This cream-based formula is chemical-free and easy to use for management of bothersome symptoms.

Cahill brings more than 28 years of expertise in development and research. She has worked with the National Development and Research Institute, as well as many brilliant doctors.

January 2022

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news briefs

“Statistically speaking, everyone knows someone who has herpes, but not many people talk about it; a big reason is the stigma it carries. It’s a normal, non-life-threatening part of a lot of people’s lives. My hope is to remove the stigma of genital herpes and give relief to the symptoms until we find a cure,” says Cahill.

For more information or to order, visit RoyalJohn.com or email Info@RoyalJohn.com. Also available on Amazon. See ad, page 39.

Plantar Fasciitis Can Be Painful and Inconvenient

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radley Seel, DPM, Alaa Mansour, DPM, and Britney Wenig, DPM, at Arbor-Ypsi Foot & Ankle Centers, are dedicated to getting to the root of any foot or ankle problem.

They specialize in general foot care, heel pain, ingrown toenails, diabetic foot care, bunions and hammertoes using a digital scanner for orthotics and digital X-rays onsite.

Plantar fasciitis, the inflammation of the ligament that runs along the bottom of the foot and connects the toes to the heel bone, is a common cause of heel pain. When the plantar fascia is injured through repetitive strain, excessive exercise, prolonged standing, wearing uncomfortable shoes or obesity, it may lead to stabbing heel pain that is typically at its worst when taking the first few steps after a long rest.

Location: 3768 Packard, Ste. A, Ann Arbor. For appointments and more information, call 734-975-1700 or visit A2Foot.com.

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Intravenous Infusion Therapy Assists with Chronic Pain

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nfusion Associates, a leading provider of medically prescribed outpatient infusion therapy, has opened a new location at 250 West Eisenhower Parkway, Suite 130, in Ann Arbor. With therapy once available only in a hospital setting, Infusion Associates provides life-enhancing and cost-effective infusion solutions in a comfortable outpatient environment. Patients are eligible to receive intravenous infusions if they are unable to take or tolerate oral medications, and their healthcare provider has referred them to receive this treatment.

COO Lindsey Savickas says, “Patients living with chronic conditions deserve to receive their treatment in a home-away-fromhome environment, where their infusions can become a positive part of their routine.”

Infusion Associates will handle prior authorizations for patients and healthcare providers in Ann Arbor to streamline the prescription medication and medical procedures process. Patients have the ability to receive their treatments 365 days a year in a comfortable and friendly environment with direct access to a medical provider.

For more information, call 833-394-0600 or visit InfusionAssociates.com.

Life Empowerment Coaching for 2022

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aria Sylvester, MSW, CPC, Life & Relationship Coach and founder of Ann Arbor’s Life Empowerment Coaching & Healing Arts Center, offers coaching sessions for adolescents, adults and couples. Her practice also includes Midlife Magnificence programs, workshops and individual coaching for women.

Sylvester masterfully helps clients get unstuck, so they can be unstoppable and truly see their lives soar. She holds a Master of

Maria Sylvester

Science degree in Social Work from the University of Michigan and is a certified professional coach through the International Coach Academy.

She says, “Experience hope, clarity, courage and confidence as you begin living from the heart of what really matters. You have the ability to create a life you love ... a life that aligns with your deepest passions, priorities and values.

Make your life a masterpiece!

Give yourself a golden gift—the opportunity to find your way home to yourself—the opportunity to step into your greatness. All the answers are within. You hold the key. A life coach helps you turn it!”

First session is free. Sessions during the pandemic are offered by phone or video. Location: Dakota Building, 1785 W. Stadium Blvd., Ste. 104, Ann Arbor. For appointments and more information, call 734-717-7532, email Maria@LifeEmpowermentCoaching.com or visit LifeEmpowermentCoaching.com.

Unique Global Menu at Taste Kitchen

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aste Kitchen uses local ingredients with a global cuisine, serving progressive American food focused on local and direct-from-source ingredients with a Vietnamese touch. Danny Van, owner and chef, says, “At Taste, origin matters. We bring

fresh, high-quality components into the kitchen, knowing where they came from. We use the highest-quality seafood and rotate these selections based on seasonal availability and sustainability.

Our service, a blend of French and new American, is tailored to be as refreshing as the cuisine, with a service staff that are just as passionate about service as they are about food and wine.”

Local vendors include Fustini’s Oils and Vinegars, Guernsey Farm, Fortune Fish, Sparrow Market, Hyperion Coffee, Little Guy Wines, Rave Associates, Frog Holler Produce, University Flower Shop, Salomon Farms, Sweet Grass Farms, Nancy’s Hudson Valley, Sparrow Market, Fresh Boy Greens, A.H.D. Vintners and Imperial Beverage.

Location: 521 E. Liberty St., Ann Arbor. For reservations and more information, call 734-369-4241 or visit TasteKitchenA2.com.

KUDOS

Tree Town has joined the group of 95 A-List cities for 2021 as defined by the CDP Worldwide Group, an international nonprofit organization that looked at the environmental impacts of more than 1,000 cities around the world. Only 9.8 percent of cities made the list.

Ann Arbor Mayor Christopher Taylor states, “We have a plan to transform our community to carbon neutrality in a way that is equitable, urgent and effective. We recognize that it is our moral obligation to do our part.”

To receive the A rating, cities must have a publicly available citywide emissions inventory, emissions reduction and renewable energy targets, and have published a climate action plan. Cities on the list also completed a climate risk and vulnerability assessment and created climate adaptation plans showing how they plan to eliminate climate hazards.

For more information, visit cdp.net.

January 2022

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health briefs

Try Mango Leaf and Lychee Fruit for Weight Loss EDGE by Amare, with three, never-before-combined ingredients—mango leaf, lychee fruit and palm fruit—delivers both physical and mental energy, instantly improving mood, motivation, metabolism and brain power, as well as progressive anti-aging benefits and loss of belly fat over time. According to health experts, mango leaf extract helps in managing diabetes and obesity. It was found that mango leaf extract helps reduce fat deposits and adiponectin protein helps in fat reduction in the body.

High in water content and low in calories, lychee fruit is a good source of dietary fiber that is excellent for weight loss. Lychee fruit helps decrease fatigue and improve endurance, lessen skin wrinkles and brown spots, while reducing belly fat over time.

Natural Awakenings readers save $10 off the first order with code 68754. Kellie Ziehm is an Amare Global wellness partner. To order, call 734-344-2339 or visit Amare MentalWellness.com. See ad page 25.

Healing Trauma and Boosting Immunity Through Connection

Stress from unresolved pain (trauma) creates illness. Childhood trauma, ancestral trauma and adult experiences all have an influence on whether our stress hormones (cortisol) turn on the genes for illness. The Adverse Childhood Events Study found that survivors of childhood trauma are up to 5,000 percent more likely to attempt suicide, have eating disorders or become IV drug users.

Many of us are experiencing some level of trauma right now, overwhelmed by social injustice and personal suffering.

Research has shown that unhealthy self-behaviors and addictions to food, TV, work, people-pleasing and drugs directly 12

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correlate to our level of connection. Through connection, people find an inner resiliency not to shut down, turn a blind eye and ultimately feel disempowered to create change in their lives or community. Cultivating connection to nature, each other and the Earth empowers people’s actions and fosters happiness.

The United States Library of Medicine found the prevalence of post-traumatic stress disorder among survivors of severe COVID-19 infections in 13 studies. When we are exposed to nature, we heal emotionally and feel healthier. Nature is a tonic for physical well-being. It reduces blood pressure, stabilizes heart rate and decreases the production of stress hormones. One study suggests that a nature view helps patients tolerate more pain, overcome adverse effects and have shorter stays at the hospital. Nature has a magical impact on our health; it reduces inflammation and prevents many diseases by boosting immunity.

Mother Bear Sanctuary will hold a Nature and Horse Retreat on Jan. 29. For more info, call 734-796-6690 or visit MotherBearSanctuary.com. See ad page 21.

The Benefits of Tai Chi Tai chi provides graceful physical and brain aging, improved balance, pain management, reduces blood pressure and more. While vigorous exercise can improve many bodily functions, research also shows that tai chi’s slow movement, relaxation technique, and development of mindful movement can enhance balance mechanics and brain function, increase regenerative blood stem cells, and support pain management.

Randomized studies published in PubMed Central, Chest Journal and Aging Defeated support claims that practicing tai chi over a period of 12 weeks to six months shows significant changes in participants' ability to reduce stress, chance of fatal falls, and enhances a sense of well-being. In some cases, falls were reduced by 50 percent; and people with fibromyalgia of an average age of 52 were better able to manage symptoms.

Also, the increase in blood stem cells improved regeneration of worn cells. The mindful/meditative movement of tai chi improves the ability to monitor and manage stress levels, builds awareness of spatial relationships and may even boost cognitive function.

The Peaceful Dragon School, with year-round programs in tai chi, meditation and qigong, is located at 1945 Pauline Blvd., Ste. B, in Ann Arbor. For more info, call 734-741-0695 or visit PeacefulDragonSchool.com. See ad page 38.

Eat More Fiber to Avoid Liver Fat

In a recent study published in The Journal of Nutrition, researchers at Seattle’s Children’s Hospital tested 1,682 adults from multiple ethnic groups and compared their diets to their levels of liver fat, which is linked to nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. They found those that ate more red meat and saturated fat, and drank more coffee had higher levels of liver fat, while those that ate more fiber and produce containing vitamins C and E had lower levels of liver fat.

Try Ear Acupressure for Seasonal Allergies Allergic rhinitis—the sneezing, runny nose and red eyes commonly called hay fever—affects one in 12 American adults and 10 to 30 percent of people worldwide. The usual treatment of antihistamines, decongestants or steroids can come with unwelcome side effects, but a simple alternative approach of ear acupressure may be as effective, suggests a new Chinese study. Researchers analyzed 11 random controlled studies that included 1,094 people with allergies. Small cow soapwort seeds or stainless steel pellets corresponding to Traditional

Chinese Medicine meridians were placed with adhesive on their ears for several days. The study in Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine concluded that ear acupressure reduced allergy symptoms more effectively than an antihistamine, conventional medicine, herbs or regular acupuncture.

UV Rays Kill COVID-19 Virus Ultraviolet (UV) light in various forms has been used widely in the last century to disinfect water, air and surfaces, but its use in public spaces is increasingly common since the COVID-19 pandemic. In a new study published in Applied and Environmental Microbiology, University of Colorado researchers report finding the sweet spot in the UV spectrum that is both extremely effective at killing the virus and also safer for human exposure, allowing airports and entertainment venues to disinfect even when people are present. The researchers found that while the virus was quite susceptible to UV light in general, a specific wavelength of far-ultraviolet C at 222 nanometers was particularly effective, while remaining safe for human skin and eyes. The highest disinfection rate was from krypton chloride (KrCl) excimers, a low-pressure, mercury-vapor lamp.

“Of almost every pathogen we have ever studied, this virus is one of the easiest, by far, to kill with UV light,” says senior author Karl Linden, professor of environmental engineering.

Consider Basil to Fend Off Alzheimer’s A natural compound called fenchol, found in basil and other plants, may help to reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease by preventing toxic proteins from accumulating in the brain, report researchers from the University of South Florida. In a new study published in Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience, researchers reported that a sensing mechanism called the FFAR2 receptor on short-chain fatty acids in the gut microbiome reduces neurotoxicity in a brain with Alzheimer’s. After screening more than 144,000 natural compounds to find those that activate that receptor, they discovered that the fenchol in basil bound to it the best. Fenchol was also found to clear harmful amyloid protein from the brain much faster than other compounds and to prevent the formation of half-dead, inflammatory “zombie cells” found in deteriorating brains. Future research will focus on on whether fenchol is best delivered through basil itself, a nasal application spray or a pill.

January 2022

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Bad Actors

global briefs

Poachers Upsetting Ecological Balance

Never Forget

Tuskless Elephants Adapting to Poaching Scourge Approximately 90 percent of the elephants in the present-day Gorongosa National Park, called one of the “last wild places” by National Geographic, were poached for ivory to finance the civil war in Mozambique from 1977 to 1992. Before the conflict, less than one-fifth of females were born without tusks. Now the number is closer to 50 percent. A study published in Science Friday reveals “smoking-gun evidence for genetic changes,” according to University of Victoria (Canada) conservation scientist Chris Darimont.

He believes the study helps us understand how humans can have a major influence on evolution.

The same phenomenon has also been observed in Uganda, Tanzania and Kenya after periods of intense poaching. Although female and male elephants can be born with tusks, tusklessness occurs at around 2 percent in a well-protected population. Study co-author and Princeton evolutionary biologist Robert Pringle thinks the changes are reversible as the population recovers, saying, “There’s such a blizzard of depressing news about biodiversity and humans in the environment, and I think it’s important to emphasize that there are some bright spots in that picture.”

Regulation Needed Plastic is the New Coal

A new report from the advocacy group Beyond Plastics has found that emissions from the plastic industry may be greater than those from coal-fired power plants by 2029. Founder Judith Enck, a former U.S. Environmental Protection Agency regional administrator, says, “Plastic is intimately connected to the climate crisis.

Plastic is the new coal.” The report details ways plastic contributes to global warming, beginning with its man14

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In a paper published in Biological Conservation, researchers from the University of Adelaide and an international team of experts have concluded that illegal global wildlife trade impacts species, ecosystems and society in unsustainable ways. Co-author Dr. Oliver Stringham states, “The trade in wild vertebrates alone is estimated to involve a quarter of terrestrial species, while the trade in ocean life, invertebrates, plants and fungi remains considerably overlooked and poorly documented. As a threat to targeted species, the trade represents one of the five major drivers of biodiversity loss and extinction at global scale.”

The incidental effects of wildlife harvesting include disrupted interactions between species and ecosystem structure, altering species composition, functioning and services such as seed dispersal, pollination and carbon storage.

Other secondary effects are decreases in eco-tourism and increases in pandemics that originate in wildlife. Co-author and Ph.D. candidate Adam Toomes notes, “A large diversity of species are not protected by international regulation and are traded without any formal documentation process, making it incredibly difficult to evaluate the associated costs and benefits.” Tools available to curb the trade include bans, quotas, protected areas, certification, captive breeding and propagation, education and awareness.

ufacture as petroleum products. Some of the issues are related to fracking, pipelines, toxic chemical byproducts, carcinogenic smoke, atmospheric hydrofluorocarbons and waste disposal on land and sea.

The Beyond Plastics report estimates that U.S. production of plastic in 2020 caused about 210 million metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions, or the equivalent of 116 medium-sized, coal-fired power plants. Aarthi Ananthanarayanan, senior fellow at the Ocean Conservancy Plastics Initiative, says the report highlights the need for policymakers to better regulate petrochemical producers, saying, “We have to start considering plastics as part of the fossil fuel industry.”

Cloudy Skies

It’s Not the Heat, It’s the Humidity For more than 20 years, a large part of the tropical North Atlantic Ocean has been warmer than usual, causing more moisture to evaporate and fueling strong hurricanes. The amount of vapor in the atmosphere has increased about 4 percent since the 1990s, and a wetter atmosphere provides extra energy and moisture for storms of all kinds. According to data from the Bulletin of the American Meteorological Society, midlatitude storms are feeding on the atmosphere’s extra vapor too, creating more precipitation. Although carbon dioxide is the more recognized problem, water vapor is a more impactful greenhouse gas by far because it absorbs a greater amount of the infrared energy radiated off the planet’s surface than other greenhouse gases, thus trapping more heat.

A doubling of atmospheric carbon dioxide concentrations alone would warm the globe approximately one degree Celsius, but feedback loops make the temperature rise twice as much. Even though disappearing sea ice may be dramatic, the extra vapor causes evaporation, which traps heat and creates even more warming, representing the strongest feedback loop in the climate system. We can reduce the effect indirectly by reducing the warming caused by emissions of carbon dioxide and methane, as well as propagating trees that absorb carbon from the air.

Hello Honey

Honeybees Dodge Parasites with Social Distancing A study by University College London and the University of Sassari (Italy) published in Science Advances shows that honeybee colonies respond to infestation from harmful mites by varying space and interaction in the hive to increase social distance between the younger and older insects. Co-author Dr. Alessandro Cini says, “Honeybees are a social animal, as they benefit from dividing up responsibilities and interactions such as mutual grooming, but when those social activities can increase the risk of infection, the bees appear to have evolved to balance the risks and benefits by adopting social distancing.”

The study assessed the presence of the ectoparasite mite Varroa destructor, which causes harmful effects at the colony level, including virus transmission.

Bottoms Up

Climate Change Affects Coffee Quality A review published in Frontiers in Plant Science outlines the vulnerability of coffee quality to environmental shifts. Researchers from the Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy at Tufts University and Montana State University looked at the effects of 10 prevalent environmental factors and management conditions associated with climate change and adaptation as detailed in 73 published articles to form this analysis. Their findings have implications for farmers’ livelihoods and consumer experiences.

Coffee is grown on 12.5 million mostly small farms comprising more than 27 million acres in more than 50 countries. Some of these regions are feeling the impact of climate change, which leads to consequences for coffee’s taste, aroma, nutritional quality, yield and sustainability. Farms at higher altitudes were associated with better coffee flavor and aroma, while too much light exposure correlated with a decrease in overall quality. Coffee quality is also susceptible to changes due to water stress and increased temperatures and carbon dioxide, although more research on these specific factors is needed. Current efforts to mitigate the effects of climate change include shade management to control light exposure, selection and maintenance of climate-resilient wild coffee plants, and pest management, but innovative solutions to support bean growth at all elevations still need to be devised.

Lead author Dr. Michelina Pusceddu says, “Their ability to adapt their social structure and reduce contact between individuals in response to a disease threat allows them to maximize the benefits of social interactions where possible and to minimize the risk of infectious disease when needed. Honeybee colonies provide an ideal model for studying social distancing and for fully understanding the value and effectiveness of this behavior.”

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Health in the New Year 10 Top Wellness Trends for 2022

by Sandra Yeyati

E

very new year marks the convergence of endings and beginnings— an opportunity to assess where we’ve been and anticipate where we’re going. As this dynamic relates to our health, this year promises an intensification in the development and adoption of several trends that have been years in the making.

Plant-Based Foods Take Center Stage

The consensus among researchers is that filling our plates with colorful vegetables 16

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and fruits improves health and reduces our risk of developing a number of chronic degenerative diseases. “This approach, along with eating less meat and avoiding sugar, is wonderful to control blood sugar, lower uric acid and nurture your microbiome, which is fundamentally important to reduce inflammation, increase your body’s production of antioxidants and vitamins and help maintain the integrity of the gut lining so that you don’t get leaky gut and, therefore, inflammation,” says board-certified neurologist David Perlmutter, author

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of Grain Brain and four other New York Times bestsellers.

Awareness of the devastating effects of industrialized meat production is also accelerating. “Avoiding animal products is probably the first and most important ethical choice one can make,” says Princeton University bioethics professor Peter Singer, author of the seminal Animal Liberation.

“That’s going to dramatically lower your carbon footprint. You will no longer be complicit in the suffering of tens of billions of factory-farmed animals, and you won’t

be contributing to the increasing risks of viruses being bred in factory farms.”

According to market analysis firm CB Insights, “As COVID-19 spread across the globe, shifting consumer behavior and virus outbreaks in factories has dealt major blows to the meat supply chain, with the beef industry alone facing an estimated $13.6 billion in losses.” Several U.S. meat processing plants were forced to close their doors.

In response, a growing inventory of plant-based alternative proteins is emerging, offering new products that seek to mimic the experience of eating a juicy hamburger (Beyond Meat and Impossible Foods) or crispy chicken nugget (Simulate). Banza makes high-protein pasta from chickpeas. Retail sales of plant-based meals in the U.S. have grown by 25.5 percent over the past two years, and other manufacturers joining the field are Plantible Foods, Rebellyous Foods, Livekindly and InnovoPro. A recent survey found that 36 percent of consumers intend to increase their consumption of alternative protein sources in the near future.

Perlmutter cautions, “Just because they’re plant-based doesn’t give them full sanction.

They may contain unfermented soy, which may not be non-GMO or organic, and per an article in the New York Times, their carbon footprint may be a lot higher in production of these products than we have been led to believe. Do a little research on these manufactured foods and go for plantbased options that aren’t processed. Shop the periphery of the grocery store.”

Telemedicine Will Continue After the Pandemic

According to management consultants McKinsey and Company, when COVID-19 began, the level of telemedicine increased in America 78-fold, peaking in April 2020.

Although it has been declining since then, the use of telemedicine is still at a 38-fold increase compared to pre-pandemic times.

“While it has leveled off, we are going to see persisting use of telemedicine in situations that involve basic communication with a patient,” says Perlmutter, citing compelling attributes such as cost savings, convenience and a lower carbon footprint because people don’t have to commute to a doctor’s office.

Wearable Devices and Home Testing Empower Patients

Perlmutter also anticipates an amplification of the use of wearable devices and home testing to provide biometric data that informs people about their health status and inspires them to modify lifestyle choices. The Oura Ring records the time it takes to get to sleep, how many times the wearer awakens during the night and how much time they spend in REM and deep sleep. This information enables people to modify day-to-day activities to improve the quality and quantity of sleep.

locked in a glass case and that it would determine everything about us. Nowadays, we know that the expression of more than 70 percent of our DNA that codes for health and longevity is under our control and influenced by our lifestyle choices. The food we eat, whether or not we slept well last night, the stress in our lives, whether or not we spent time in nature—all of these things, moment-to-moment, change our gene expression. Holy Toledo! We now know that certain lifestyle choices are good for you because they favorably change gene expression. They teach it in med school now. It’s a breathtaking reality.”

Harnessing the Power of

Low-Level Stress “Our evolving underhackers and high-performance junkies standing of epigenetics— Life are looking to leverage something called how we can change our hormesis, which involves introducing low-level stress to the body for a positive gene expression—is bring- outcome, so that when the body repairs ing more people on board itself from that condition, it doesn’t just repair back to the previous level, but to a to the idea that our life- new one with an advantage. This includes exposing the body to a hot sauna or cold style choices matter” Apple Watch aficionados are increasingly relying on the device’s biofeedback features, including its newest metric, blood oxygenation, while diabetics and non-diabetics alike employ continuous glucose monitoring systems to pinpoint how lifestyle choices like food, exercise and sleep affect blood sugar levels. “That is not only trending now, but will increase quite dramatically as consumers push to learn more about themselves,” Perlmutter predicts. “No longer is this information going to be siloed in the doctor’s office. People are becoming more and more empowered to learn this data about themselves and act on it.”

Learning to Improve Genetic Expression

“Our evolving understanding of epigenetics—how we can change our gene expression—is bringing more people on board to the idea that our lifestyle choices matter,” Perlmutter says. “When I went to medical school, we thought our DNA was

exposure through cryotherapy, as well as intermittent fasting or time-restricted eating.

“People are starting to see how good things happen when we engage in things that push us in places that are perhaps a little bit uncomfortable, activating mechanisms that help with metabolic health, immunity, cognitive function and even the growth of new brain cells,” Perlmutter explains.

Mental Health Destigmatized

When U.S. gymnast Simone Biles dropped out of the 2021 Summer Olympic Games citing mental health challenges, she created an opening for other people to speak up.

If a world champion could reveal her vulnerability on the global stage when the stakes were so high, certainly so could they.

Her compelling story is emblematic of an emerging trend: Mental health is gradually becoming destigmatized.

“It’s becoming acceptable to talk about our feelings and ask for help, and this trend is shattering unhealthy cultural myths, like the erroneous assumption that if we talk about our emotions we’re going to fall into a pit of despair and sadness,” says Licensed IntegraJanuary 2022

17

tive Psychotherapist Leslie Davenport, the author of Emotional Resiliency in the Era of Climate Change. “There’s a boldness among younger generations that are challenging the status quo and demanding to be accepted as they are. Tucking away anything that might not be socially acceptable is a part of the past. Kids want their families and adults to accept and love them exactly as they are.” On Twitter, Instagram and Facebook, #itsoknottobeok is a popular hashtag.

Mental health surveys show that eco-anxiety in particular is prevalent among the young. Late last year, scien-

seen coaching become more common as another option in which people don’t have to examine their past and can instead look forward. A coach can help them make sense of their life, set goals and hold them accountable.”

tists at the University of Bath, in England, interviewed 10,000 youth between the ages of 16 and 25 across 10 continents. In the U.S., 68 percent said that the future was frightening. Almost half admitted that they had distressing feelings related to climate change on a daily basis, 42 percent believed that the things they valued most would be destroyed and 35 percent feared that their family security would be threatened.

fulness has been emerging for a while, but at this point, it’s a household word,” Davenport says. “People are talking about mindful eating or mindful conversations.

Core concepts like being present in the moment or taking in the other person in an empathetic way are rippling out into so many aspects of life.”

A Surge in Coaching

Redefining the conventional, in-person therapy session that is 50 minutes in a quiet room, therapy apps allow people to have

According to Davenport, “In addition to therapy becoming more acceptable, I’ve 18

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Mindfulness Becomes Ubiquitous

In a few decades, mindfulness practices have catapulted from Buddhist monasteries to corporate boardrooms and have become a billion-dollar industry in the U.S. with an 11 percent annual growth rate. “Mind-

Therapy and Meditation Apps Abound

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short phone calls, video chats or text exchanges with a therapist for a low monthly fee. Notable therapy apps include BetterHelp.com, OnlineTherapy.com, BrightSide. com and Calmerry.com. For meditation, Calm.com, InsightTimer.com and HeadSpace.com are dominating the field.

Virtual Experiences Are Here to Stay

Many people that were devastated by isolation and loneliness during the pandemic sought social engagement via streaming and app-enabled webinars, exercise

routines or art classes. Suddenly, virtual conferences attracted participants from all over the world. Davenport relishes the fact that she was able to take tap dancing classes from a renowned New York City teacher, even though she lives in Washington State. “In a surprising silver lining, we’ve come to appreciate the convenience of these virtual experiences, which we likely wouldn’t have attended in person before the pandemic.”

Sandra Yeyati is a professional writer and editor. Reach her at SandraYeyati@gmail.com.

Cannabidiol Holds Multiple Benefits for Oral Health

by Keith Dobracki

T

here is a huge boom in cannabidiol (CBD) oil research, and the natural compound may offer more health benefits than first imagined. CBD oil toothpaste and mouthwash can help eliminate gum disease and prevent cavities, and there are dozens of studies examining its ability to improve oral health such as antibacterial properties, reducing inflammation, aiding remineralization and more.

An attractive smile starts with good oral health. Most people have 250 to 300 different strains of bacteria in their mouth at any given time.

Certain bacteria may cause bad breath and disease. Some strains are necessary for digestion and others, like Streptococcus salivarius K12, actually release substances which keep unfriendly bacteria at bay according to Scientific American. which says, “Many current treatments do not improve oral ecology—in fact, they might make matters worse. Although some mouthwashes merely mask unpleasant odors, alcohol-based rinses sold in drugstores and prescription rinses containing chlorhexidine or other antiseptics target all oral bacteria, stinky and otherwise.” On one level, people report that mouthwash and toothpaste impact the taste of food or create tingling and burning in the mouth. Alcohol-based solutions also dry out tissues, which can increase bad breath and contribute to disease. More alarmingly, these products destroy the good bacteria that keep the bad in check, allowing bacteria responsible for infections and disease the opportunity to flourish. Research on the benefits of CBD toothpaste and mouthwash is booming.

Naturally Eliminate Decay-Causing Bacteria.

Streptococcus mutans and Streptococcus sobrinus are associated with tooth decay, but others can contribute. Research from the National Institutes of Health indicates that CBD can eliminate both, thus reducing the risk of getting cavities.

Reduce Inflammation. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about half of all Americans over age 30 have gum disease. At its early stages, gum disease may appear with minor symptoms like inflammation, bleeding and soreness, but when it progresses, people have issues like bone and tooth loss.

Researchers found that CBD can diminish the inflammation associated with periodontal disease.

Improve Overall Health.

The American Academy of Periodontology reports, “For a long time, it was thought that bacteria was the factor that linked periodontal disease to other disease in the body; however, more recent research demonstrates that inflammation may be responsible for the association.” The organization links periodontal disease with diabetes, cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, respiratory disease and cancer.

Restore pH and Increase Remineralization. Acids are

produced when oral bacteria break down carbohydrates, which include most sugars. These acids cause the pH of the mouth to drop, which results in an acidic environment in which minerals are stripped from teeth and they become susceptible to decay. Teeth naturally absorb the minerals in saliva and grow stronger in a neutral pH environment, so it’s imperative to maintain a neutral pH as much as possible. Because CBD has antibacterial properties, a pH-balanced mouth will stay balanced.

Reduce Bone Loss Associated with Gum Disease. Bone loss associated with advanced gum disease can

only be repaired with surgery. Recent CBD research found those that undergo CBD treatment lose less bone than those who go without; there is a noticeable difference in bone levels in as little as 30 days.

There is a snowball effect associated with oral health. When one area is out of balance, the other areas become unbalanced. This is true of the whole body, because all systems interact with each other and can either contribute to wellness or disease. In general, inflammation may be linked to everything from depression to Alzheimer’s disease, per studies conducted by the Cleveland Clinic.

Clearly, overall health is undeniably linked to oral health.

Keith Dobracki, DDS, is a board-certified biological dentist, member of the holistic dental association and owner of Ann Arbor’s Dentist.

For more information, visit AnnArborsDentist.com. See ad page 5.

January 2022

19

conscious eating

A Better Morning Jolt

Healthy Coffee Alternatives and Hacks

by April Thompson

M

ost Americans enjoy a daily dose of coffee, and an increasing body of research indicates it’s not a bad habit to have. Meanwhile, a growing number of people are adapting their morning drink rituals to incorporate ingredients ranging from matcha to mushrooms in search of additional health benefits.

“After many years of research, we have concluded that coffee can be a fan-

20

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tastic additive to the diet. Coffee consumption is associated with a decrease in all-cause mortality, risk of cardiovascular death and stroke,” says Claudia Hleap, a registered dietician nutritionist in Philadelphia.

Regular coffee consumption is also correlated with a decreased risk of Type 2 diabetes, potentially due to its naturally containing polyphenols, which

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are plant compounds with protective antioxidant properties. The caffeine in coffee, as well as in tea and cocoa, can also boost short-term metabolism and brain function.

As with most things in life, moderation is key; overconsumption of coffee can result in insomnia, irritability, gastrointestinal issues and other short-lived side effects.

“Caffeine intake may negatively impact

sleep duration and quality, which is essential for optimal health,” says Hleap. “Coffee can also serve as a vessel for added sugars and unhealthy fats in the diet if you are adding sweeteners and artificial creamers.”

Many java drinkers today are experimenting with healthy alternatives and add-ons to shake up their routine morning pick-me-up.

Chicory-based drinks, made from roasted ground chicory root, are a favorite for Lauren O’Connor, a Los Angeles registered dietitian nutritionist and author of Healthy Cooking for One. “Chicory is caffeine-free, acid-free and a gut-friendly alternative to coffee,” she says. “It also has a robust, roasted taste that can satisfy those who desire more than an herbal tea. Date ‘coffee’, made from date seed, also has a deep, rich flavor.”

Some chicory tea blends also incorporate roasted dandelion root, which has been used by herbalists for centuries to enhance the body’s detoxifying functions, particularly of the liver. Golden milk, a traditional Indian beverage associated with Ayurvedic medicine, is another flavorful alternative with numerous health benefits.

Recipes vary, but golden milk is typically prepared by heating milk or a plant-based milk alternative along with turmeric, black pepper, ginger, cinnamon, honey, vanilla and/or cardamom. “These warming spices go above a simple caffeine replacement to provide powerful anti-inflammatory benefits,” says Trista Best, a registered dietitian in Dalton, Georgia.

Spices like cinnamon and cardamom have been added to coffee and black tea for centuries in the Middle East and Asia to enhance both flavor and health.

Best also recommends matcha, a traditional Japanese drink made from powdered, young, green tea leaves whisked in water as a coffee alternative with less caffeine and other added benefits. Because the tea leaves are essentially consumed in powder form rather than just steeped in water, matcha contains more catechins, an important antioxidant, than a typical preparation of green tea. “The L-theanine, an amino acid, in matcha is known to improve brain health, which shows itself through improved memory, attention and reaction time,” notes Best.

A Better Bean

Rather than swap out coffee altogether, some java lovers are bettering their beloved beans with healthy add-ons such as powdered mushrooms, ghee and spices. “A healthy addition to coffee can include co-

conut oil, collagen or butter. These can add some fat and protein content, which will provide more energy while also jumpstarting your metabolism at the beginning of the day,” says holistic health coach Virginia Gruhler. Ghee, a clarified butter that originated in ancient India, has been touted as a “keto-friendly” way to help neutralize the acidity of coffee while adding healthy fats and nutrients.

Spices like cinnamon and cardamom have been added to coffee and black tea for centuries in the Middle East and Asia to enhance both flavor and health. Cinnamon, for example, may help lower blood sugar, in addition to having antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.

Mushroom coffee is another popular “coffee-plus” beverage which combines the flavor and energy boost of java with the benefits of medicinal fungi like turkey tail, lion’s mane and chaga, boosting the immune system and potentially warding off serious health conditions like dementia and cancer.

Because caffeine can stay in the bloodstream for up to 10 hours, staying clear of all caffeinated drinks in the later hours of the day will help ensure a better night’s sleep. When a mid-afternoon slump hits, a brisk walk followed by a cup of a flavorful herbal tea like Rooibos or lemongrass can wake up the body and the brain naturally.

Connect with Washington, D.C., freelance writer April Thompson at AprilWrites.com.

Fostering connections between animals, people, and the Earth.

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January 2022

21

fit body

Whole-Person Fitness

Current Trends in Wellness Tools

by Maya Whitman

I

nsiders agree that the idea of fitness is changing, and this means an exciting wave of trackers and apps that go beyond achieving the ultimate six-pack abs. “So many of us want a nice exterior, but now more than ever, we realize how important it is that the interior match that exterior,” says Dominic Kennedy, a Los Angeles trainer and founder of the Dominic Effect, an app that provides fitness workouts, customized meal plans and mind-body tools like meditation, yoga and affirmations.

The industry of wearable technology has been expanding since the advent of the FitBit Tracker in 2014, and the trend is not slowing down. Current fitness wearables even include rings that offer more detailed biometric data including blood pressure, heart rate, sleep and calories burned. With some smartwatches now priced under $50, it’s clear why the business marketing firm Grandview Research predicts significant annual growth for such products for the next six years.

Making it Personal

For this year, fitness and wellness choices will focus more on practical effectiveness within the new normal. “I see that most don’t want to spend hours in the gym. The way life is now, we do things differently: home gyms, home office, home childcare,” notes Kennedy.

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The world of fitness is extending beyond the gym, taking inventory of all the aspects that factor into maintaining wellness. “This year, fitness is all about making workouts work for you and your lifestyle. Whether it be wearable technology, customized online personal training apps or mindset workouts that work on getting your mind in gear, 2022 has me excited,” says Stephanie Mansour, a Chicago-based fitness coach and host of the national PBS fitness and wellness show Step it Up with Steph. “I think we’re going to be focusing on habits and other areas of life like food, sleep and mindset that contribute to the effectiveness of workouts.”

She also foresees people picking up inspiration from hardcore fitness devotees that share more of their personal daily habits such as journaling, affirmations and how they stay committed to investing in health.

Bringing a water bottle to a yoga class or slipping on activewear is becoming digitalized, making it easier to target overall health.

Staying hydrated based on individual needs is effortless using a Thermos app-connected hydration bottle with a smart lid that tracks daily intake. Mansour’s favorite fitness ally is clothing inlaid with resistance bands. “You can actually get in a workout while doing everyday activities with this resistance apparel. I love how resistance bands are built into these pants so my daily walk, yoga session or washing dishes and doing laundry turns into a workout because my muscles engage and work harder,” she says.

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More Support, Less Pressure

Kennedy sees a sense of community taking root since the start of pandemic, especially via online forums and groups centered on health and fitness. “We spend so much time on the internet and social media, and during the pandemic, it was a huge outreach that will continue to grow since you can do it right from your computer or phone.”

New Jersey-based fitness trainer Nadia Murdock sees a trend of prioritizing ourselves without all-too-common feelings of guilt.

The founder of Core Program, designed to help entrepreneurial mothers take charge of their health and fitness, she warns about the possible trigger effect of digital trackers that use pop-up screens or reminders about daily steps. “I would suggest asking yourself why you want to use a tracker. Once you have identified the reason, you can now seek out alternative options that may cause less pressure,” she says. To stay accountable without mental anguish, she suggests using a multisport watch that offers the perk of real-time audio coaching.

Kennedy concurs, saying, “The point is not to cause any more anxiety and to create a safe space. We should not be obsessing about weight and putting ourselves down, but finding a space that will lift our spirits.”

Despite the benefits of the latest technology and extras, Mansour reminds us to adhere to “tried and true methodologies like regular workouts that you enjoy, eating nutritious foods and taking care of your mental health through meditation, stress-reduction techniques and getting adequate sleep.”

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green living

The Electric Vehicle Revolution

by Jim Motavalli

But there’s more. Fuel and service costs have been dramatically reduced with EVs. A 2018 University of Michigan Transportation Research Institute study pegged the average cost to operate an EV at $485 a year, compared to $1,117 for a gas-operated car, and battery packs and electric motors take up less space than engines, transmissions and radiators.

This means larger passenger compartments with more legroom and no center “hump”, and storage up front (the so-called “frunk”), as well as behind. Designers are even able to ditch the grille—a feature shared by all but a few air-cooled cars on the market.

EVs Get More Affordable. The high

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lmost certainly, electric cars are in everyone’s future. Not only are automakers—from General Motors and Volvo to Rolls-Royce and Bentley—pledging to stop producing gas and diesel cars, but a long list of countries in Europe and Asia plus three U.S. states are planning to ban them by 2040 or earlier, often citing climate change imperatives.

This wouldn’t be happening if electrification technology was standing still. Instead, it’s

made rapid progress to the point that electric vehicles (EV) are more often than not better cars than their internal combustion counterparts. A range of 300 miles or more (the top model of the luxurious Lucid Air claims 520) has become commonplace, and the inherent properties of electric motors—such as lots of low-end torque—means they’re very fast off the line. The Rimac Nevera, an EV supercar, reaches 60 mph in an incredible 1.85 seconds.

cost of EVs has been off-putting. The Tesla Model S Plaid Edition, made in California, starts at $129,990, the Arizona-produced Lucid sells for up to $170,000, and the Croatian-made Rimac costs $2.4 million. That’s one reason EV penetration is low—accounting for only 2 percent of U.S. sales in 2020. By last year, there were almost 1.8 million EVs on American roads—three times the number of 2016—but affordable cars would make the numbers grow much faster. The federal $7,500 federal income tax credit for EVs helps, but it has a 200,000-unit sales cap, and General Motors and Tesla have already met it.

Some states, and especially EV-friendly California, have generous additional incentives, and a proposed increase in the tax credit from $7,500 to $12,500 is under consideration by Congress.

Battery pack costs—the key reason EVs are expensive—went down an average of 16

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percent per year between 2007 and 2020, the University of Pennsylvania reports. And that has created cheaper electric vehicles such as the Chevrolet Bolt ($31,995), Hyundai Kona ($34,000), Mini Cooper SE ($30,750), Nissan Leaf ($32,620) and Tesla Model 3 ($41,190).

The big news for truck fans is that the country’s bestselling vehicle for many years, the Ford F-150 pickup, will have a battery electric variant called the Lightning on the market this spring with a price under $40,000.

For some people, hybrid or plug-in hybrid vehicles are a better choice. They’re certainly cheaper. Toyota’s long-lived Prius (with 58 mpg city/53 highway) starts at $24,525. And there’s an appealing Ford hybrid truck, too—the Maverick—at $19,995. It went on sale late last year.

These “green” trucks are undoubtedly better for the environment than their gas and diesel counterparts. Greenhouse gas production is directly tied to fuel economy, and some versions of the current F-150 pickup get only 15 mpg combined. The only emissions from its EV counterpart and battery trucks like it will be from the generation of the electricity to run them. The Maverick hybrid gets 40 mpg in city driving.

In 2020, researchers in England and Holland said that driving an EV is better for the environment in 95 percent of the world—the exception would be in areas with very dirty coal-based grids. For a complete lifecycle analysis, it’s necessary to factor in the effects of manufacturing, the mining of rare earth minerals, the makeup of the local grid, end-of-life recycling and other factors. EVs do have slightly higher

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greenhouse gas production from recycling (1.8 tons versus 2.4 tons) because of battery processing, a Chinese study says. But that same study reports that complete lifecycle emissions for EVs are 18 percent lower.

The good news is that many of the factors that go into lifecycle analysis are getting better for EVs. Renewable energy is the fastest-growing energy source, and the amount in the U.S. grid increased 100 percent between 2000 and 2018.

Lithium is essential for modern EV batteries, and both General Motors and BMW have invested in more sustainable methods of extraction.

Integrating with the Home. Another

EV cost is the installation of 240-volt electricity for home charging. But in 2020 the International Code Council (ICC) set new voluntary guidelines for new homes that would make all of them “EV-Ready”. Installing the necessary wiring when the house is built would cost $920, compared to $3,550 for a retrofit, says the ICC. Some municipalities, such as Seattle, already require EV wiring for new homes with off-street parking.

Increasingly, EVs are being equipped for two-way power, meaning they can power homes or construction sites. That’s one part of the appeal of Ford’s Lightning, which has 9.6 kilowatts of power available to keep the lights on during a power outage. It can provide fullhome electricity for three days.

What to Expect. Buying an EV will require some lifestyle changes, most but not all of them positive. Passing up gas stations is

a plus. Studies show that 80 percent or more of EV charging will be done at home, mostly at night. Regular servicing for tuneups and oil changes will become a distant memory, and so will the financial bite. AAA says EVs will cost on average $949 less per year to maintain.

Many of today’s electric cars have range limitations, and this needs to be factored into trip planning. The 2021 Volkswagen I.D. 4 Pro can travel 260 miles on a charge, perhaps not enough to get to grandma’s house. The 2021 Nissan Leaf only has a 150-mile range, although the Leaf Plus increases that to 226.

Buying used is tempting, because some EVs—such as early Nissan Leafs—are highly affordable, with good ones costing about $7,000. But its range is poor, just 73 miles.

While some older Teslas have credible range, they’ve also retained their value pretty well. In general, buying new—which includes claiming the federal income tax credit—is a better idea.

First-time EV buyers worry about high prices, range, finding public chargers (although the $7.5 billion allocated to build them in the recent infrastructure bill may help), the considerable time needed to recharge at home, compromised interior space and replacing the expensive battery packs. These are all legitimate concerns, but the lower-priced, roomy, fastcharging EVs coming on the market now—and a network of more than 41,000 public chargers—go a long way toward addressing them.

Jim Motavalli can be contacted at JimMotavalli.com.

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healthy kids

Zen Zone for Kids

Create the Perfect Calm-Down Corner at Home

by Marlaina Donato

C

hildren and teens are sensitive beings, and like adults, they need daily tools to offset the stresses of life. Whether a child is overwhelmed by COVID-19 protocols at school, is on the autism spectrum or is highly sensitive or anxious, creating a special place to decompress can help manage big emotions.

“Children, including teens, often don’t

recognize the combination of sensory stimuli that is causing anxiety, irritation or exhaustion that can then lead to emotional reactivity in the form of anger, outbursts, silence, crying, inappropriate laughing or teasing,” says occupational therapist April Christopherson, owner of ExplorationTherapy.com, in Gunnison, Colorado.

Peace, Not Punishment

A calm space can be an inviting corner, a designated room or a place outdoors. “Sensory processing is a blanket term for how our brains and bodies integrate and use the sensory information/input around us. This is mostly environmental,” says Christopherson.

Triggers may include uncomfortable room temperature, noise, inadequate or intrusive

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lighting, even scratchy clothing. Unlike timeout spaces that prompt kids to process actions and think about behavior, calm-down spaces can soothe a nervous system in overdrive and quell uncontrollable meltdowns.

“It’s common for kids with sensory processing needs to be misunderstood and labeled as overly sensitive or explosive. Creating a space that meets your child’s sensory needs gives them a safe space to retreat to when they’re feeling overwhelmed,” says Alisha Grogan, a Pittsburgh occupational therapist and creator of YourKidsTable.com for picky eaters.

Calming Nerves, Engaging the Senses

Kids’ tranquil areas can be simple or elaborate, but part of the magic formula is including objects that soothe the senses. “The calm space can contain items that allow time for stress hormones to decrease,” says certified autism specialist Cara Koscinski, of Jacksonville, Florida, founder of PocketOccupationalTherapist.com, an online source for parents, therapists and students.

She recommends including sensory allies such as bean bags, therapy putty or dough, slow or classical music, a white noise machine, books, emotion identification cards and fidget toys (squishy or gel-filled balls, tangle toys or a Rubik’s Cube). A weighted blanket or stuffed animal, especially for younger children, is also a good option.

“Time to refocus and allow deep breathing can make a world of difference,” says

Tranquil Possibilities

“If you have the space to set up a reading nook or a semi-permanent pillow fort, your kids will love you for it.”

Koscinski, recommending cards with cues or instructions for deep breathing.

Sarah Norris, founder of the coaching website SensoryCoach.org, with offices in Denver, Atlanta and Chicago, believes we can all benefit from sensory strategies. “Using sensation is a powerful way to change how you feel without much thought or expression,” she says. “Sensory objects can often be used in more than one way, which allows you to discover how to help yourself feel better in a fun, nonjudgmental way.” She recommends including scented items with calming essential oils and drawing pads, as well as age-appropriate and coloring books.

Grogan’s sensory picks are stress balls, kinetic sand, noise-cancelling headphones, scented teddy bears and chewy necklaces for a child to bite on. “Families may want to have a variety of sensory tools and toys available so a child can choose what’s helpful for them,” she says. Ambient lighting, including lava lamps and year-round holiday lights, can set the mood of any sensory space.

Setting up stress-free zones at home doesn’t have to be a one-size-fits all approach. Norris favors going outside the box. “If you have the space to set up a reading nook or a semi-permanent pillow fort, your kids will love you for it. Don’t overlook the possibility of using outdoor spaces as places to promote calm. Being in nature can be very regulating, especially if there is a comfy seat or fun swing to enjoy.” If making an area at home doesn’t work for some families, Norris suggests highly effective portable kits that can come along in the car or to doctor’s appointments.

Christopherson encourages creative options like a comfortable beanbag at the bottom of a closet, a rocking chair with a heavy blanket or an outside fort or tree house. For multi-sibling homes, Grogan recommends a pop-up tent in a corner or in smaller spaces or a blanket thrown over a table for an instant fort.

Whatever the setup or individual needs, calm spaces encourage kids to find their center and claim their space in a chaotic world. “All kids should be given what they need for success,” underscores Koscinski.

Marlaina Donato is an author and a recording artist. Connect at Wildflower Lady.com.

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wise words

Peter Russell

on the Healing Power

of Letting Go

by Linda Sechrist

I

What exactly do you advise us to let go of?

n Letting Go of Nothing: Relax Your Mind and Discover the Wonder of Your True Nature, Peter Russell reminds readers what lies at the heart of all spiritual traditions. Based on his half-century of practicing Transcendental Meditation and applying the lessons of ancient and contemporary spiritual teachers, he offers a new perspective on the age-old practice of letting go, which involves not being attached to outcomes, surrendering desires, accepting the present, opening to a higher power, relinquishing the ego and practicing forgiveness. He traces the seeds of many ideas in the book to his time in India studying with Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, as well as immersing in A Course in Miracles and the writings of contemporary teachers including Eckhart Tolle and Ram Dass.

While the thought-provoking title suggests that individuals might be asked to let go of a situation, possessions or a relationship, the fundamental theme running through the book is not the letting go of things themselves, but rather letting go the things that only exist in the mind—thoughts, interpretations, fixed beliefs, points of view, expectations of the future, attachments to possessions and relationships, judgements, grievances, assumptions about how things should or should not be. These things in the mind are the lens through which the things of the world are experienced.

For example, looking at things through blue-tinted spectacles gives everything a

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“Prolotherapy a wise choice. I am completely healed, and good as new!” – Self-Verified Patient, 01/20/20

blueish tinge. But the lens itself is not part of the world you see.

In a similar way, the lens through which we see our world is not another thing we see. In this sense, we are letting go of the “nonthings” that color our view of the world.

What led to your understanding of this?

The questions “Is there another way of seeing this?” and “Could there, just possibly, be another way of seeing this?” occurred spontaneously, without an effort on my part. With an open, curious attitude and without trying to find an answer or even assuming there was one, my inner knowing was able to shine through and reveal another more helpful way of seeing things.

What benefits have you experienced from letting go?

I’m more in touch with my intuition and my feelings and less consumed by my thoughts. I feel better, experience more peace and am content. Discontent is largely self-created by thinking These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.

This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

†

I’m more in touch with my intuition and my feelings and less consumed by my thoughts. how things should or should not be. When discontent drops away, contentment becomes more prevalent. No one walks around wonderfully enlightened all the time. Letting go is a lifetime process.

Noticing where I get caught up, pausing, coming back to the present, to what is, has a feeling of “Ahhh.” It’s a sense of coming home to my inner home.

The world pulls us outward, taking us out of ourselves. When we step back from it and let go for a while, it’s like coming home to our self.

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How can we better savor each moment?

In just pausing and noticing what is in the present moment of experience, you’ll simply be stopping and withdrawing your interest from the thoughts that showed up when you paused. If you notice that your attention relaxes and if there is a sense of ease, a gentle sense of happiness or joy or a quality of spaciousness and clarity, savor it. Later, when it occurs to you, pause again and again. But don’t let the practice of pausing become routine or a ritual. Instead, make each pause a fresh inquiry into the moment and be curious about what it feels like, as if it were the first time, because it is the first and only time you will savor “this” moment.

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

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29

healing ways

High Times for the Cannabis Industry Emerging Trends with a COVID-19 Caveat

I

by Jim Motavalli

t’s fair to say that the cannabis industry has arrived. Recreational marijuana has now been approved in 17 states, and 37 have allowed marijuana for medical purposes. “We have CBD!” proclaim store signs selling the buzz-free cannabidiol. In 2020, more than 240,000 people worked in cannabis-related jobs. The Brightfield Group says the medical cannabis industry will reach $16 billion in annual U.S. sales by 2025. Cannabis market research firm Headset predicts this will be “a year of positive growth” for the industry.

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Legalization and expansion are strongly in line with public sentiment: Two-thirds of Americans believe marijuana should be legal, says the Pew Research Center. Opposition has fallen from 52 percent in 2010 to just 32 percent by the end of 2019.

“Dispensaries and cannabis cafés are as commonplace as Starbucks, and ordering edibles is as easy as getting pizza,” reports marketing firm Grassfed Media. The National Retail Federation noted a 700 percent increase in the demand for CBD-based products in 2019.

One caveat, however, is COVID-19. Ron Newman, a sustainable development analyst with Lee Enterprises Consulting, says the hemp/ CBD business was flat during 2020 because of the pandemic. “With the economic situation, people were buying only essentials,” he says. “But we’re seeing the business start to come back now.” With COVID-19 recovery, more growth is certain, and here are some upcoming trends.

Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the active ingredient in marijuana that gets the user high. The natural compound CBD—said to have healing and pain/anxiety relief properties—is being heavily marketed in the form of oils, edibles (including gummy bears and lollipops), oral sprays, creams and pills. The third-most popular food-related Google search term in 2018 was “CBD gummies”. CBD dietary supplements are the biggest category, followed by topical applications and third, food and beverage additives.

THC is still illegal in many parts of the U.S., but CBD cultivation and sales were legalized by the 2018 Farm Bill. California offers a model for the states in regulating cannabis. Both medicinal cannabis and adult recreational use are legal, but the industry is strictly regulated by the Department of Cannabis Control to ensure that businesses operate safely and that products are free from contamination, properly labeled and kept away from children.

Research into cannabis is an emerging field, with 23,000 papers published since 2010, and Grassfed believes that some future products will be based on “other cannabinoids and terpenes such as CBN, CBG, THCA and THCV.” In addition, strains labeled indica, sativa or hybrid, or with names like Gorilla Glue and Wedding Crasher, may increasingly be replaced by a scientifically supported classification system.

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Bar & Restaurant magazine wants its bartenders to know there might be THC-free CBD cocktails on their future bar menus. It reports that these drinks are “a legal grey area; federally they’re illegal, but some states have their own CBD-related laws.” The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) says flatly, “It is currently illegal to market CBD by adding it to a food or labeling it as a dietary supplement,” but the agency has said it is considering relaxing this prohibition.

There’s a Wild West quality to the CBD/hemp industry today. An FDA study found many CBD products to be mislabeled, with either more or less CBD than indicated. A significant number contained THC. And then there are the laws, with federal prohibitions and state regulations, that can be quite different. For instance, New York bans CBD products with more than 0.3 percent THC, and bans CBD from any alcohol or tobacco product. So determining whether any specific product is “legal” or not in different locations is complex.

But marketing benefits are plain.

Jody McGinness, executive director of the Hemp Industries Association, says the FDA doesn’t actually have strong enforcement powers, and that the worst thing CBD/THC legal violators can expect from the agency is a warning letter posted on the FDA website.

Gregg Sturz, co-founder of Florida-based CBD Hemp Experts, a leading wholesale provider of cannabis-derived products, says he expects the FDA to eventually approve CBD for use in dietary supplements. “I don’t think they’re trying to shut the industry down, just come up with some clear guidelines,” he says.

The legal status of THC is such a question mark that, according to Investopedia’s Marijuana Investing Guide, large banks “are currently afraid of money-laundering charges they may face if they work with these businesses … The American Bankers’ Association has been pushing for more legal clarity.”

Newman, who studies the medicinal uses of CBD, notes that in some cases it’s being marketed as a topical analgesic for pain relief, when actually the other proven ingredients in analgesics—including methanol and camphor—are doing the heavy lifting. This situation has also produced FDA warning letters, because if CBD is claimed to relieve pain, then it is required to go through a new drug application process for efficacy.

In 2018, the FDA approved Epidiolex, an oral solution with CBD as an active ingredient, used for the treatment of rare and severe forms of epilepsy. While it’s the only approved product so far, studies suggest CBD might be useful for anxiety, insomnia, skin protection and addiction.

McGinness sees the major growth area for cannabis-related products not in CBD, but in industrial hemp fiber. As hemp growers gear up in the Midwest after decades of federal bans, they’re likely to expand beyond cottage clothing companies into such areas as auto and industrial parts and building materials, he says.

“Hemp products made in a green way create fewer emissions,” McGinness says. “And the bioplastics made from hemp are lighter-weight, which increases fuel efficiency. I expect we’ll see heartland industrial hemp grow so much it will make CBD look like a niche.”

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Jim Motavalli is a Connecticut-based journalist who writes about the environment. He can be contacted via JimMotavalli.com.

January 2022

31

natural pet

Pet-Pleasing Food Trends

What Dogs and Cats Will Eat This Year by Ronica O’Hara

D

og and cat food is becoming ever more humanized in the U.S. Market researchers and veterinarians report that consumers are increasingly demanding for their pets what they want for themselves: high-quality, sustainably sourced ingredients that are free of questionable byproducts. “Organic, gluten-free and even vegan are now mainstream when it comes to Fido and Fluffy,” says integrative veterinarian Carol Osborne, of Chagrin Falls, Ohio. “Fancy foods, gourmet treats, even personal pet chefs have become the norm.” In a turnabout on animal testing, some companies advertise that their pet food products are tested on humans.

It’s the logical outcome of an evolution in how pets are regarded, say psychologists. Only a few decades ago, most dogs slept in doghouses rather than in bedrooms, and most cats were free-range explorers of the outdoors. Today, two in three American households have a pet, and the animals are increasingly part of the family—sometimes even more beloved than human family members. One study, for example, found young children more likely to confide in a pet than in a sibling.

A mattress company survey found that 71 percent of pet owners sleep with their furry friends. The forced togetherness of the pandemic drew pets and owners even closer. “Today, pet owners want to reward their pets in every way possible to let them know how grateful they are for the unconditional love and companionship they provide,” says Osborne.

The urge to lovingly pamper pets starts at the food dish with many emerging trends.

Custom Tailoring. According to market analyst firm Mintel, three in five U.S. pet owners are willing to pay more for foods that are customized to their pet’s specific dietary needs, a trend being eagerly 32

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HealthyLivingMichigan.com

met by more than 700 brands and 10,000 products. Today, a dizzying array of foods are tailored to pets’ ages, breeds and physical and emotional conditions. Obese dogs can chomp down on high-protein, low-fat foods; anxious pups can mellow out with foods that contain hemp and CBD oil; and dogs prone to kidney stones may find relief on a renal-support formula. Consumers unable to purchase pricey, specialized formulas are making kibble less boring by adding flavorful mix-ins and toppers such as shredded tuna and lamb liver flakes.

Going Plant-Based. The slow but sure rise in the number

of Americans that eat natural, plant-based diets has its parallel in animal diets. Organic pet food free of pesticides, antibiotics and chemicals constitute a robust, $22-billion-a-year business in the U.S., and vegan pet food sales are predicted to grow globally by 12 percent a year. Ancient grains like amaranth, quinoa, buckwheat and millet are included in gluten-free formulas to satisfy a small but growing market. To make plant-based chow more appealing, pet food makers are adding savory flavors and substituting chemical enhancers with kitchen ingredients like vinegar.

Rethinking Meat. Some manufacturers are replacing chicken and beef with more adventurous, gamey proteins such as rabbit, venison, bison and wild boar. “Products are advertising how you can bring out their inner wolf by feeding them that food, because it is more natural to their instincts,” says Heather Venkat, the acting public health veterinarian for Arizona. Revenues are predicted to nearly double from $277 million in 2018 to $525 million in 2025 for a growing favorite: raw meat in the form of freeze-dried kibble.

Ethical Buys.

Consumers are examining labels to find pet food that is sustainable and responsibly sourced. “‘Made in the USA’ remains a popular claim and feature that may even be increasing, along with a demand for ethical claims, sustainability concerns and cause marketing,” writes Debbie Phillips-Donaldson, editor-in-chief of Petfood Industry. In a survey of U.S. dog and cat owners conducted

by Packaged Facts in early 2020, 69 percent reported concern about the treatment of animals raised for use in pet food.

Cautionary Notes.

When buying pet food, veterinarians urge pet owners not to be overly swayed by advertising claims. “For example, the words ‘holistic’, ‘ancestral’, ‘instinctual’, ‘gourmet’ and ‘premium’ are really just marketing. On the other hand, ‘organic’, ‘natural’ and ‘human-grade’ all have specific definitions when they are applied to pet foods,” says veterinarian Jennifer Coates, of Fort Collins, Colorado, author of The Dictionary of Veterinary Terms.

“Most importantly, watch how your pet does while eating a particular food. If your pet is maintaining a healthy weight and has normal digestive function (firm stools, no vomiting), good energy levels, normal amounts of shedding and that ‘glow’ of good health, the diet you’ve picked is probably a good match,” she says.

Health writer Ronica O’Hara can be contacted at OHaraRonica@gmail.com.

inspiration

Why Words Matter

by Marlaina Donato

F

rom witchy incantations in Shakespeare’s Macbeth to ancient Sanskrit mantras; from the stirring speeches of Martin Luther King, Jr. to the divinely inspired poetry of the Sufis, words have bridged the chasm between the visible and the invisible since the dawn of human language. They have the capacity to conjure change, rock the boat, manipulate mood and alter the inner landscape.

According to language research center

Ethnologue, there are more than 7,000 languages in the world. We use words every day to communicate, to learn, to teach, to bond with kindred souls and to win opinion wars on social media. We can use words as medicine or weapons, and we too often forget their power.

Many religious texts draw attention to the spoken word, especially in creation stories and the creative capacity of deity. In the Vedanta Sutra, an ancient Vedic text,

the phrase anavritti sabdat translates to “by sound vibration, one becomes liberated.”

Consider what it would be like if we each made a daily commitment to use everyday words as a conscious tool for healing—a practical form of spiritual discipline from which everyone might benefit.

In our age of rapidly developing technology and jam-packed schedules, the spoken word is becoming a casualty in the daily blur of abbreviated texts and emojis. Forty percent of the world’s languages are on the threshold of extinction, and so is the language of everyday courtesy and compassion. “Sticks and stones will break my bones, but words will never hurt me,” the old saying goes, but words do hurt, chipping away at our mental health in the classroom, on the checkout line at the supermarket and in our social media newsfeeds.

Negativity-overwhelm has become the norm. If the mystics of old are correct regarding the energetic impact of our words, thoughts and self-talk, incredible power awaits on the tip of our tongues. With a little bit of attention and intention, there’s so much we might be able to create for ourselves and others.

Words are seeds, and we can sow life-sustaining gardens for generations to follow. Consider what to plant today.

Marlaina Donato is the author of several books and a composer of visionary music.

Connect at WildflowerLady.com.

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33

calendar of events SATURDAY, JANUARY 8 Dexter Winter Marketplace – 9am-1pm. Features art and crafts, bread and baked goods, jewelry, fresh produce, eggs, cheese, meats and more. Dexter United Methodist Church, 7643 Huron River Dr, Dexter. DexterMarket.com.

Community Wholistic Education Call – Jan 8 & 15. 10-11am. Jesse R. Brown, ND, traditional Naturopath, will hold a free call on How to be the Healer in your home. Will address how you can discover the healing power in you to help yourself and your loved ones if you choose to. The healing powers of intention. attention, food as medicine, herbs, energy, touch, and ancient healing methods will be revealed.

Via Zoom. Details: WholisticTrainingInstitute.com.

SUNDAY, JANUARY 9 Online: Foundations of Aromatherapy Certification: Level 1 – Jan 9, 10, 23, 24. With Margo Hertzfeld. Get a solid foundation in aromatherapy so that you can begin or add to your practice, build your business, or simply be empowered to care for yourself and your family using the beauty of plant-derived essential oils and other botanicals. $550. Register and more info: 419-360-0169, Margo@RosyGlowWellness.com or RosyGlow Wellness.com.

community. Tools, snacks and know-how provided.

Free. Location given after registration. Pre-registration required: Tinyurl.com/Barton011722.

TUESDAY, JANUARY 18 Certified Herbalist Training Begins – 6-8pm. 8 wks. Herbology 1 with Wholistic Training Institute (a state of Michigan-licensed school). Learn to the historic medicinal uses of herbs and about a variety of health conditions. Discover your body systems, what they do and which herbs support them. Instructor Dr. Jesse R. Brown and team. Course also available self-paced. $500. Via Zoom. 313-2556155. WholisticTrainingInstitute.com.

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 19 Certified Herbalist Training Begins – 6-8pm. 8 wks. Herbology 2 with Wholistic Training Institute (a state of Michigan-licensed school). Learn more historic uses of medicinal herbs and how to prepare poultices and special applications. May be taken together with Herbology 1 at a reduced rate.

Instructor Dr. Jesse R. Brown and team. Course also available self-paced. $500. Via Zoom. 313-2556155. WholisticTrainingInstitute.com.

TUESDAY, JANUARY 11

Self-Hypnosis for Attention and Relaxation – 6-8pm. Begin with a brief history of hypnosis and its practical applications in everyday life. Learn how to use self-hypnosis as a tool for solving problems in a practiced and logical yet relaxed atmosphere.

Online sessions at Schoolcraft College Personal and Professional Learning. $39.20. Schoolcraft College, VistaTech Center, 18600 Haggerty Rd, Livonia.

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Ikebana: Japanese Flower Arranging – 1-2:30pm.

Presented by Ann Arbor Ikebana Intl Chapter. Create your own seasonal Ikebana arrangement with guidance by a certified instructor. $20. Matthaei Botanical Gardens, 1800 N Dixboro Rd. Reservations required: A2Ikebana@gmail.com. mbgna. umich.edu.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 22

SATURDAY, JANUARY 15

Stewardship Workday: Kuebler Langford Nature Area – 1-3pm. Help cut and remove invasive shrubs. Tools, snacks and know-how provided. Free.

Location given after registration. Pre-registration required: Tinyurl.com/Kuebler012222.

TUESDAY, JANUARY 25

MONDAY, JANUARY 17

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Greater Ann Arbor

PLAN AHEAD TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 8 Get the Most from Your DNA Test – 6-8pm.

Explore the popular trend of DNA testing for individuals in an easy to-understand casual presentation.

Explore the options and further work necessary to make your testing results even more worthwhile.

Discussion and examples of current offerings are key components of this online class. $39. Washtenaw Community College: 734-677-5060 or wccnet. edu/noncredit.

THURSDAY, JANUARY 20

Dexter Winter Marketplace – 9am-1pm. Features art and crafts, bread and baked goods, jewelry, fresh produce, eggs, cheese, meats and more. Dexter United Methodist Church, 7643 Huron River Dr, Dexter. DexterMarket.com.

Stewardship Workday: Barton Nature Area – 1-3pm. MLK Day of Service. Help protect and restore this nature area for the benefit of the whole

Winter Nature Walk: Furstenberg Nature Area – 1-2pm. A winter walk can be just the thing to lift our spirits and access the healing power of nature.

Enjoy wetlands, woodlands, prairie and oak savanna on this nature walk with a staff naturalist from City of Ann Arbor NAP. Meet at the Furstenberg parking lot off Fuller Rd. A2Gov.org/NAPevents.

Rooted Visionaries – Self-acceptance, chi gong, sexual embodiment. Heal trauma and receive community support. 2 workshops weekly and a monthly session for $222. Mother Bear Sanctuary, 20470 Barton Rd, Pinckney. 734-796-6690.

MotherBearSanctuary.com.

Consciousness Hacking 2.0 – 7pm. Features a provocative discussion between Dr. Newsom and Mr. Duvall on the healing properties and potential of psychedelics, specifically ketamine. Free. Virtual.

FindingMetis.com.

Community Wholistic Education Call – 10-11am. See Jan 8 listing. Details: WholisticTrainingInstitute.com.

SUNDAY, JANUARY 30

MARCH-MAY

Stewards’ Circle​– 5:30-6:30pm. Introducing a whole new Stewards Circle. Join us to share your experiences and learn from your peers. Topic: Soil and Invasives. After the discussion group, join the happy hour just up the street at HOMES Brewery.

Veterans Memorial Park Meeting Room, 2150 Jackson Ave, Ann Arbor. StewardshipNetwork.org.

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 12

SATURDAY, JANUARY 29 Become Untamed: Horse and Nature Retreat – 10am-2pm. Practices to express more fully and step out of self-imposed cages. Learn to lead through presence and authenticity. Men, women & all gender identities welcome. $189 in-person. Mother Bear Sanctuary, 20470 Barton Rd, Pinckney. 734-7966690. MotherBearSanctuary.com.

Virtual Education Series – 7:30-9pm. Does Addiction Treatment Work? by Dr. Carl Christensen. Free.

Via Zoom. For link: DawnFarm.org.

HealthyLivingMichigan.com

ongoing events

daily The Greenhouse Gallery: Holiday 2021 Conservatory Exhibit – Thru Jan 9. Exhibit reveals how plants and nature contain all the elements and principles of art and design. Gift shop stocked with locally and sustainably sourced items. Exhibit free. Matthaei Botanical Gardens, 1800 N Dixboro Rd. mbgna.umich.edu.

Ypsi Area Online Market – A collaboration between Growing Hope, The Farm at St. Joe’s, Zilke Farm Kitchen, and a growing list of area farmers and food producers. For pick-up sites & to shop: Growing Hope.net/ypsi-area-online-market.

Free 15-Day Meditation Challenge – 6am11:55pm. Join this challenge to get a free 15-day program introducing mindfulness and meditation.

Get daily prompts explaining how to do sitting meditation plus mindfulness checks at the end of each day. Free. wix.to/kkAZB0A. Tiny Lions Lounge & Adoption Center (TLC) –

12-7pm, Wed-Sun. Offers feline-friendly activities with kittens and cats available to take home. 5245 Jackson Rd, Ste A1, 734-661-3575. TinyLions.org.

sundays Hudson Valley Humane Society Rescue Reading – 10am-12pm. Includes humane education lessons, group read-aloud and dog meet-and-greet. Drop-off event. $10; space limited. HSHV.org/RescueReading.

Online Meditation from Anywhere – 11am-12pm.

Building an international sangha by connecting loving hearts. Donations welcome. To receive a link: CelesteZygmont2@yahoo.com or DeepSpring.org.

Beginner Tai Chi – 10-11:15am. A series of postures linked together in fluid manner. Focuses on relaxation in motion, balance and the mind/body connection. Can attend one or both sessions per week (Mon morning &/or Thurs evening). $195. Peaceful Dragon School, 1945 Pauline Blvd, Ste B, Ann Arbor. 734-741-0695. PeacefulDragonSchool.com.

Meaningful Mondays – 8pm. SevaLight Retreat Centre warmly welcomes everyone, of all faiths, meditation practices and traditions, to join us virtually. Will gather on video conference sharing in song/ chants and inspiring readings from Mata Yogananda Mahasaya Dharmaji’s writings, followed by Pure Meditation and silent prayer. Free. Email by 10am any Monday to receive the info about how to join by video: Info@SelfRealizationCentreMichigan.org.

Sunday Talk with Demo Rinpoche – 11am-12pm.

Jewel Heart Tibetan Buddhist Learning Center, 1129 Oak Valley Dr, Ann Arbor. 734-994-3387.

JewelHeart.org.

tuesdays

The Sunday Artisan Market – Thru Dec 19. 11am4pm. Unique local arts & crafts. Meet the artists and support local art. Free parking. Ann Arbor Farmers’ Market Pavilion, 315 Detroit St, Ann Arbor. SundayArtisanMarket.org.

Online Meditation from Anywhere – 9-9:30am.

Building an international sangha by connecting loving hearts. Donations welcome. To receive a link: CelesteZygmont2@yahoo.com or DeepSpring.org.

Reiki Sessions at Evenstar’s Chalice – 2-4pm. 1st & 3rd Sun. Feel the stress fall away as you experience the healing and restorative power of reiki. Choose a 20- or 40-min session. $1/minute. Evenstar’s Chalice, 36 N Huron St, Ypsilanti. 734-905-7980.

EvenstarsChalice.com.

Inspiring Talk by Mata Yogananda – 7pm. Spiritual talk, pure meditation and silent prayer, with Winged Prayer for all in need at 9pm. Free. Self-Realization Meditation Healing Centre, 7187 Drumheller, Bath.

517-641-6201. SelfRealizationCentreMichigan.org.

Sound Healing Concert – 7-9pm. Rare, therapeutic chakra-tuned crystal bowls played with recorded soundscape music while reiki is sent to the audience. $20/at door. 3820 Packard, Ste 280, Ann Arbor. 734358-0218. EnlightenedSoulCenter.com.

Sound of Soul by Eckankar – 6:30-7:15pm. HU is a sacred word to draw Soul closer to God bringing wisdom and awareness. Enhances any faith. Free.

Crazy Wisdom Bookstore and Tea Room, 114 S Main St, Ann Arbor. Eck-MI.org.

saturdays Ann Arbor Farmers’ Market – Thru Dec. 7am3pm. 315 Detroit St, Ann Arbor. A2Gov.org.

InterPlay: Dive Deep into Creative Self-Expression – 11am-2pm. 2nd Sat. An active, creative way to unlock the wisdom of the body. Through simple improvisational forms, it uses movement, sound, storytelling, stillness, and contact to provide a powerful forum for creative expression, self-exploration, connection and play. Friends Meeting House, 1420 Hill St, Ann Arbor.

231-421-3120. SoulWaysHealing.com.

wednesdays Online: Conscious Leaders Group Coaching – Thru Dec. 3-4pm. A place to receive continuous guidance for leading with compassion and flow.

Includes 2 monthly calls, where you can bring questions or issues to be coached around. Learn about your blind spots, tackle your growth edges, and build resilience for your leadership. $222/mo. AmbrosiAlanimals.MyKajabi.com/offers/Fcot2cjT/checkout.

Crazy Wisdom Bookstore and Tea House Poetry Circle – 7-9pm. 2nd & 4th Wed. Features a reading by a well-published poet followed by open mic. For Zoom link: CWPoetryCircle@gmail.com.

mondays

thursdays

Chelsea Online Farmers’ Market – Mon-Thurs.

Saturday pick-up. For details: ChelseaFarmersMkt.org.

Massage Clinic with Student Interns – 11am. Massage therapy sessions at our established student clinic, at our State Licensed School. By appt; private rooms, quiet peaceful environment. $40/hr. Ann Arbor School of Massage, 3684 W Liberty Rd, Ann Arbor. 734-7697794. NaturopathicSchoolOfAnnArbor.net.

Virtual Pilates with Gwyn – 9:30-10am. Build a better understanding of your mind & body connections through alignment, posture and natural movement awareness. $5/class. GwynJonesPilates.com.

fridays

Qigong: Basics – 11:15am-12:15pm. Class introduces participants to basic self-care stretches, breathing, meditations and self-acupressure for reducing muscle tension, increasing mindfulness, and revitalization. $180.

Peaceful Dragon School, 1945 Pauline Blvd, Ste B, Ann Arbor. 734-741-0695. PeacefulDragonSchool.com.

Beginner Tai Chi – 6-7:15pm. A series of postures linked together in fluid manner. Focuses on relaxation in motion, balance and the mind/body connection. Can attend one or both sessions per week (Mon morning &/or Thurs evening). $195. Peaceful Dragon School, 1945 Pauline Blvd, Ste B, Ann Arbor. 734-741-0695. PeacefulDragonSchool.com.

Meditation Class – 7-8pm. Short lesson and meditation, followed by discussion with instructor Lori Barresi. Drop-in, every other Thur. $10. Enlightened Soul Center, 3820 Packard, Ste 280, Ann Arbor. 734358-0218. EnlightenedSoulCenter.com.

classifieds HELP WANTED LOOKING FOR DEDICATED AND PASSIONATE DISTRIBUTOR / SALES OF ALLNATURAL PRODUCTS. This is not a MLM; this is based on product sales of retail and sales to the public. This will include contacting the public as well as outdoor and indoor events. Calling on stores and businesses. Must be passionate about healthy living and helping others be healthy. Michiganmade products. We are a licensed, insured, certified company. Please contact U.P. Chaga Connection 906-282-0787 (Serious inquiries only).

RELAXSTATION, VOTED A2’S BEST MASSAGE, IS HIRING! Our massage therapists earn $35K to $40K annually as W-2 employees for a 30-hour (including breaks) weekly schedule. New location on Packard Street between Argus Farm Stop and the Buddhist Temple offers traditional full body massage as well as fully clothed table massage, plus onsite chair massage at UT and local businesses.

Free parking. Friendly, diverse and supportive community of co-workers. Relaxstation.com. Ask for Carrie, 734-623-1951.

January 2022

35

community resource guide ALTERNATIVE PAIN MANAGEMENT KRASNICK REGENERATIVE MEDICINE

210 Little Lake Dr, Ste 8, Ann Arbor 734-585-5653 KrasnickRegen.com

Krasnick Regenerative Medicine is an alternative practice that provides non-surgical treatments for joint, muscle and back pain using treatments such as prolotherapy, prolozone and platelet-rich plasma. See ad page 28.

AROMATHERAPY ROSY GLOW AROMATHERAPY

Margo Hertzfeld, Certified Aromatherapist 419-360-0169 RosyGlowWellness.com Clinically certified aromatherapist offers holistic consultations with customized blends of professional quality essential oils. Trust Margo to help you understand the complicated world of aromatherapy.

Her holistic approach can help you maximize your benefits from this powerful therapy and minimize side effects. Aromatherapy is a wonderful way to integrate natural healing into your life. Phone consultations are available.

BIOLOGICAL DENTIST ANN ARBOR’S DENTIST

Dr. W. K. Dobracki, DDS 606 W Stadium Blvd, Ann Arbor, 48103 734-747-6400 DrDobracki@AnnArborsDentist.com AnnArborsDentist.com Passionate about holistic care while utilizing Bio-Compatible materials and lasers. Our patients can elect to be free from fluoride, mercury and other harmful metals. Filling materials are tooth colored and both BPA & BisGMA free. We offer natural oral health products using fine essential oils, and free of gluten and preservatives. See ad page 5.

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Greater Ann Arbor

BUDDHIST MEDITATION, YOGA & RETREAT CENTER TRIPLE CRANE MONASTERY AND CONVENT

7665 Werkner Rd, Chelsea, MI 48118 734-757-8567 HuayenWorld.org/usa Triple Crane Monastery and Convent is a place for practitioners of yoga, mediation and spiritual retreats. Along with using our beautiful 10,000-sq-ft. building for our own activities, it is also available to the community, by donation, for residential or day-long, personal or group workshops and retreats. Call for information on weekly classes, residential retreats and building use. All are welcome.

CHAGA PRODUCTS U.P. CHAGA CONNECTION

906-282-0787 MidnightSpcl_59@yahoo.com UPChagaConnection.com

Freshest, cleanest, wildest organic Chaga available in the Upper Peninsula. State certified. Immune-Boosting Superfood. For centuries, people have used chaga mushrooms for medicinal purposes.

Packed with antioxidants, its extract may fight cancer, chronic inflammation, improve blood sugar and cholesterol levels. See ad page 30.

COACHING & COUNSELING ARIA MAE EVERTS

Coach, Facilitator, Healer Aria@AriaMae.com AriaMae.com

HealthyLivingMichigan.com

Spiritually integrative coaching, healing and retreats for Conscious Leaders. In-person and virtual personal development for those who envision a world where all life is honored. See ad page 10.

NIA SPONGBERG, LIFE COACH

Ann Arbor 734-531-9024 NiaSpongberg.com

Nia is a certified life and productivity coach (ACC, CPC) who helps adventurous people blaze new trails in their time, tasks, and transitions. Her “Walk & Talk” sessions (held at 7 local natural areas) are an especially powerful way to get moving toward your goals. Nia also coaches by phone and Zoom. Get in touch for a free discovery call.

DETOX/COLONIC

INNERSPACE HOLISTIC

Brandy Boehmer, 734-709-8313 2350 Washtenaw Ave, Ste 14, Ann Arbor InnerSpaceHolistic.com Colon Therapy is the slow and gentle insertion of purified water into the colon (large intestine) for the cleansing of poisons, mucous and accumulated fecal matter. It is also used to stimulate the colon to recover its natural shape, tone, and peristaltic wave action. No chemicals or drugs are used—thus it is a safe, gentle health-giving alternative. Brandy Boehmer is National Board Certified in colon hydrotherapy through the International Association for Colon Therapy.

END OF LIFE DISCUSSION/ SUPPORT DEATH CAFES

Ann Arbor Death Cafe (Zoom currently) TheDyingYear@gmail.com Interfaith Death Cafe (Zoom currently) Annie.Kopko@InterfaithSpirit.org Ypsilanti Death Cafe (In-person, masked) Hanna@AcaciaEndOfLife.com Death Cafe is an open group discussion of death with no agenda. It’s not a grief support group. The objective is “to increase awareness of death with a view to helping people make the most of their (finite) lives.” Although death is a universally shared phenomenon, it still remains a taboo topic for many. A Death Cafe gives the space to talk (& listen) to others who are ready to discuss it all.

General worldwide info: DeathCafe.com. End of Life Doula training: TheDyingYear.org.

GENERAL & COSMETIC DENTISTRY ANN ARBOR SMILES DENTAL GROUP

2365 S Huron Pkwy, Ann Arbor & 1795 W Stadium, Ann Arbor 734-887-9667 AnnArborSmiles.com Ann Arbor Smiles is a state-of-the-art general and cosmetic dental office dedicated to treating the whole person in a caring and compassionate manner. Most insurances accepted and financing is available. See ads, pages 3 and 26.

HOLISTIC DENTISTRY DEXTER DENTAL STUDIO

7300 Dexter-Ann Arbor Rd, Ste 300, Dexter 734-426-8360 DexterDentalStudio@gmail.com DexterDentalStudio.com From the moment you walk through the door, you will experience a friendly and relaxed environment where the focus is always on you and your overall well-being. Dentistry is about more than just filling teeth. We place great emphasis on patient education and providing a positive and helpful dental experience. See ad page 11.

PACKARD FAMILY DENTISTRY

2444 Packard St, Ypsilanti 734-519-6191 PackardFamilyDentistry.com

Our doctors are committed to holistic dentistry as the best way to care for our patients and keep them and our team as healthy as possible.

We strive to treat the cause of a problem, not just the symptoms. We provide insight and answer any questions you may have regarding the tools and techniques we use for your care. See ad page 24.

HOLISTIC DOCTOR DR. MALCOLM SICKELS, M.D.

HOMEOPATHIC PHARMACY CASTLE REMEDIES

210 Little Lake Dr, Ste 10, Ann Arbor, 48103 734-332-9936 DrSickels.com

2345 S. Huron Pkwy, Ann Arbor In the Parkway Center 734-973-8990 CastleRemedies.com

Malcolm Sickels earned his M.D. from the University of Michigan, where he taught fellow medical students about different approaches to health. Board certified in Family Medicine and Holistic Medicine, he is in solo practice on the west side of Ann Arbor. Learn more at Dr. Sickels.com. See ads, pages 8 and 9.

Discover Michigan’s only homeopathic pharmacy open to the public. Herbs, Nutritional Supplements, Aromatherapy, Distinctive Gifts & Jewelry. Specializing in products for maintaining health & preventing disease. See ad page 20.

HOLISTIC MENTAL WELLNESS KELLIE ZIEHM

Kellie.Amare@yahoo.com 734-344-2339 AmareMentalWellness.com Come join my team with this ground floor distributor opportunity with the only holistic mental wellness company in direct sales. I’m also looking for healthcare professionals to join our influencer program. See ad page 25.

MOTHER BEAR SANCTUARY DAVE TUSCANY, CPC

586-907-6125 MotherBearSanctuary.com

Mother Bear Sanctuary’s mission is to remind people of their innate connections to their bodies, the Earth, all animals, and each other.

Dave is a certified life coach specializing in shadow healing, men’s sexual empowerment. creating alignment in integrity, accountability. FIREWALK Empowerment events, “Thru The Eyes Of The Horse”Leadership & Sales Enhancement. See ad page 21.

HOLISTIC VETERINARIAN JOHN B. SMITH, DVM

1954 S Industrial, Ann Arbor 734-213-7447 DogDoctor.us We invite you to partner with us for a naturopathic, patient-centered approach to restoring and maintaining your pet’s health. We focus on health span—not just life span. See ad page 33.

INTEGRATED MEDICINE & COLLEGIUM THOMAS KABISCH, DO, MD

2350 E Stadium, Ste 12, Ann Arbor 734-971-5483 DODoc@sbcglobal.net Offering Wharton jelly stem cell injections. Serving the addiction community for 18 yrs. A variety of LLT lasers including intravenous. Steer from cancer with the Simple Life program.

MOLD TESTING & REMEDIATION MOLDPRO

John Du Bois, CMI, CMR 247 W. Main Street, Milan 734-439-8800 • MoldProllc.com MoldPro offers chemical-free mold remediation, independent certified mold testing, inspection and consultation services all over SE Michigan specializing in mold biotoxin illness clients.

NATURE-ORIENTED MEETING SPACE MICHIGAN FRIENDS CENTER AT FRIENDS LAKE COMMUNITY

7748 Clark Lake Road, Chelsea 734-475-1892 https://MFCenter.org/rent

We offer the holistic community a nature-oriented meeting space for workshops, meetings, counseling, yoga, youth groups, and family gatherings. Main room accommodates 100 preCovid, with two smaller classrooms and kitchen facilities.

Hiking trails. Weekend rates range from $200-$400, additional for extensive grounds use, camping. See ad page 8.

January 2022

37

community resource guide MOTHER BEAR SANCTUARY BARBRA WHITE M.A, DI,HOM

PAIN RELIEF

734-796-6690 MotherBearSanctuary.com

AUNT ALBERTA’S REMEDY

973-715-9097 Info@AlbertasPainRelief.com AlbertasPainRelief.com

Need Relief from Arthritis?

Try Aunt Alberta's Remedy to ease muscular aches and joint pain. Her Remedy is a homeopathic pain relief cream that penetrates deep into the skin and muscle tissues. All-natural ingredients!

PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY ANN ARBOR SMILES DENTAL GROUP

Dr. Heather Hoffman 2900 Golfside Rd Suite 5, Ann Arbor & 1795 W Stadium, Ann Arbor 734-887-9667 AnnArborSmiles.com Ann Arbor Smiles is a state-of-the-art general and cosmetic dental office dedicated to treating the whole person in a caring and compassionate manner. Most insurances accepted and financing is available. See ads, pages 3 and 26.

Mother Bear Sanctuary’s mission is to remind people of their innate connections to their bodies, the Earth, all animals, and each other.

Barbra specializes in transpersonal therapy, horse retreats, trauma-informed nature therapy, healer training and leadership programs. See ad page 21.

NATUROPATHIC INSTITUTE OF THERAPIES & EDUCATION

503 East Broadway St, Mt. Pleasant 989-773-1714 Contact@NaturopathicInstitute.info NaturopathicInstitute.info

Educational programs offered: Natural Health Program: four years (one weekend a month); Massage Therapy Program: one year (two weekends a month); Holistic Doula Practitioner Program: six months (one weekend a month). Individual classes available. See ad page 4.

SMOKING CESSATION FREE AT LAST! HYPNOSIS

Center - A Joyful Journey 734-883-8775

Stop smoking in one visit. Afraid it’s going to be too painful or too difficult? Our unique specialized and proven system makes it easy.

Become a happy and permanent non-smoker today. See ad page 23.

PERSONAL & SPIRITUAL GROWTH WORKSHOPS INNER LISTENING™ WORKSHOPS

Rev. Julie Chai 231-709-5597 InnerListening.me

Inner Listening™ workshops for compassionate self-awareness, presence, serenity, love, and joy, offer you the theory, practice, and support to move beyond emotional reactions and into deep healing, compassion, and empowerment.

TAI CHI AND QIGONG PEACEFUL DRAGON SCHOOL

1945 Pauline Blvd, Ste B, Ann Arbor 734-741-0695 PeacefulDragonSchool.com

SCHOOL / EDUCATION ANN ARBOR SCHOOL OF MASSAGE, HERBAL & NATURAL MEDICINE

734-769-7794 NSHAAssociates@gmail.com NaturopathicSchoolOfAnnArbor.net

Massage therapy training is a one-year program that fulfills the 717-hour, state licensed professional training with the required 80 hours of clinical internship. The rate for scheduled, Tuesday through Friday appointments at our student massage clinic is $40/hr.

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Greater Ann Arbor

HealthyLivingMichigan.com

Tai chi promotes relaxation, is a meditation in motion and is known for increasing balance. Qigong means energy work. This class includes stretching, meditation and self-acupressure.

WEIGHT LOSS FREE AT LAST! HYPNOSIS

CENTER - A JOYFUL JOURNEY 734-883-8775 Lose weight now with hypnosis.

Achieve permanent positive life and habit changes through our safe, rapid and effective system. Tap the potential of your mind to create the health and vitality you’ve always wanted. See ad page 23.

WELLNESS / AYURVEDA YOGA / FITNESS AROGYAVEDA

2458 N Dixboro Rd, Ann Arbor 734-436-1401 Text: 248-736-4633 ArogyaVeda.org ArogyaVeda is a wellness center for holistic science Ayurveda and Yoga. This center offers Classical Hatha Yoga classes, Ayurvedic consultations and treatments, Ayurvedic cooking and nutrition workshops, and Bollywood dance workouts. Call now to take a step towards a happier and healthier life.

WELLNESS CENTERS THRIVE! WELLNESS CENTER

6901 State Rd, Ste D, Saline 734-470-6766 Thrive-Wellness-Center.com

Shannon Roznay, DC, specializes in Nutrition Response Testing and Activator Chiropractic.

Thrive! also carries natural foods, skin and home products. See ad page 22.

WOMEN-ONLY MASSAGE SHER

734-239-3344 SherrelWells@icloud.com Sher.amtamembers.com My goal is to always give the best massage you’ve ever had. I have been a medical massage therapist since 1987. I will get the pain out. Muscular, sciatica, back pain, etc. $75/30 min medical massage and $100/ hr relaxation massage with hot towels.

RELIEF FOR GENITAL HERPES

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Plus your “2 Cents” could win you a $100 Visa gift card!

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NaturalAwakenings.com/survey

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VISIT RoyalJohn.com or Amazon to Order. *Claims based on traditional homeopathic practice, not accepted medical evidence. Not FDA evaluated.

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Greater Ann Arbor

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