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Awakening Humanity Near-Death Experiences Proof of Afterlife

Sleep Sharing Benefits of a Family Bed

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December 2013

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Natural Awakenings Detroit is pleased to sponsor this community

outreach event specifically targeted for those in healthy living and green businesses. It offers an opportunity for business people from this niche to gather, network and share ideas to help support one another and grow our local green economy.

December Speaker: Karla Mitchell

Traditional Naturopath & Energy Healer Exhalation Wellness - The Natural Approach

Meetings will be held at: St. Paul of the Cross Passionist Retreat and Conference Center 23333 Schoolcraft Rd • Detroit (on the I-96 service drive near Telegraph)

Thursday, Dec. 12th 6-8pm Group Discussions Sharing & Fellowship Upcoming Meeting Dates: Wed, Jan 8 Thur, Feb 6 Wed, Mar 5 Thur, Apr 10 Thur, May 8 Thur, Jun 12

Thur, July 10 Wed, Aug 6 Thur, Sep 11 Thur Oct 9 Wed, Nov 5 Wed, Dec 3

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m t.co line! i o r n et le o gsD nin vailab e k a a lAw les tura e artic a N t or Visi ven m e r o f

contact us Wayne County, Michigan Edition Published by: Healthy Living Detroit, Inc. P.O. Box 381250 Clinton Twp, MI 48038 Phone: 313-221-9674 Fax: 586-933-2557 Publisher Mary Anne Demo publisher@NaturalAwakeningsDetroit.com Editorial & Layout Team Lauressa Nelson Kim Cerne Hedy Schulte National Franchise Sales Anna Romano NaturalAwkeningsMag.com 239-530-1377 Business Development Chris Lee, Sales Director Unique Mills, Sales Kevin Woody, Sales © 2013 by Natural Awakenings. All rights reserved. Although some parts of this publication may be reproduced and reprinted, we require that prior permission be obtained in writing.

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Do you remember a time when life was simpler? When the holidays included special traditions that seemed almost magical? It’s easy to get caught up in the festivities and lose sight of what’s important. Maybe we’ve been desensitized by movies and television shows.

But it’s not too late to stop and reflect upon what’s most meaningful in our lives.

Holidays should be a joyous time. Yet, for some, especially those who have recently lost a loved one, this can be a time of sorrow and loneliness. Friends and family may find it difficult to recognize when to give some space to those grieving and when they need a gentle push to get out of the house and reconnect with other people.

Simply reaching out to others can be the very best gift of all.

As the end of 2013 draws near, it’s time to think about how to bring in the new year. St. Paul of the Cross Passionist Retreat and Conference Center, located on spacious and secluded grounds in the city of Detroit, offers a tranquil alternative to a big celebration (page 19). Men and women, singles, couples and widows, are welcomed with compassion and hospitality to an overnight retreat of personal reflection, prayer, fellowship and celebration. The event, which begins on New Year’s Eve, features opportunities to participate in gentle yoga, chair massage, plus a candlelight dinner, personal prayer and reflection time. The evening culminates with a pre-midnight alcohol-free reception to ring in the new year. The retreat concludes on New Year’s Day with the celebration of mass and sharing of a delicious brunch afterward. It is hoped guests will leave renewed, refreshed and with a sense of hope for 2014.

My husband David and I have attended this enriching retreat for several years. This year will be even more memorable as we will be celebrating our 20th wedding anniversary. The optional gentle yoga and chair massage are new to the event this year but provide a nice way to wind down from a busy day and transition to some stillness and reflection.

In the article on Page 18, Near Death Experiences, Proof of Life After Death,

by Linda Sechrist, we read personal stories of near-death experiences. A common thread seems to prevail from those who came back – love. Love myself and be an instrument of love.

The holidays are a great time to offer love, peace and kindness to others. But why wait for them – it’s much better to spread it out and savor it over all 365 days of the year.

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

16 CREATING HOLIDAY 18 NEAR DEATH

EXPERIENCES

Proof of Life after Death

by Linda Sechrist

21 AN INSIGHT INTO

by: Tammy Braswell

22 PET FIRST-AID KITS

All-Natural Home Health Care

by Sandra Murphy

26 GREEN MERRY MAKING

Retro-Fresh Family Traditions

by Claire O’Neil

28 ‘TIS THE SEASON A Prime Time to Rejuvenate and Birth Creativity

Publisher@NaturalAwakeningsDetroit.com Deadline for editorial: the 10th of the month.

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TO BE WISE

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TRADITIONS

by Dr. Carol Ann Fischer, DC, ND

Co-Sleeping in the Family Bed

by Mark Sisson

32 PEACE ON OUR PLATES

Mindful Eating for a

More Peaceful World

by Judith Fertig

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36 TOO MUCH

TOGETHERNESS? Exercise Helps Keep Family Holidays Merry

by Sarah Todd

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December 2013

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newsbriefs Noel Night Celebrates Holiday in Midtown

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he 41st annual Noel Night will take place from 5 to 10 p.m., December 7, in Midtown Detroit. More than 75 venues of shops, restaurants and museums, including the Detroit Institute of Arts, the Michigan Science Center and the Detroit Historical Museum, will open their doors to the public with free admission and special offers during this holiday extravaganza. Socra Tea, a tea house and gallery located on Garfield in the Sugar Hill Arts District, will welcome guests with complimentary refreshments and 20 percent discounts on select teas plus holiday gift baskets.

A holiday gathering for all ages, activities include horse-drawn carriage rides, family crafts, holiday shopping and performances by more than 200 area music, theatre and dance groups. The evening’s festivities close with a community singalong on Woodward Avenue led by the Salvation Army Band.

Free shuttle service between participating venues has been arranged by the show’s organizer, Midtown Detroit, Inc., a nonprofit community development organization that supports economic growth in Detroit’s Midtown District. Parking is available in area lots.

Cost: Free. Location: Midtown Detroit. For more information, event schedule and shuttle routes, visit MidtownDetroitInc.org or call 313-420-6000.

Discover How To Connect With Spirit Guides

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earn about spirit guides and how to connect with them at the workshop, Connecting with Your Spirit Guides, scheduled from 7 to 8 p.m., December 18, at Canton Center Chiropractic Clinic. Tammy Braswell, Healing Energy practitioner, Intuitive, Lightworker and Soul Realignment® practitioner, will reveal how a person can experience a more personal relationship with spirit guides and receive guidance from them to help fulfill their purpose in life.

“We are not alone as we travel on this journey we call life. We actually have spirits assigned to us to help us know which way to go and what choices will be for our highest good.

This assistance is available whether we realize it or not, but when we are aware of the spirits who are guiding

Learn the History of Rock and Roll at Michigan Science Center

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xplore the history of rock and roll at the Michigan Science Center. The Science of Rock ‘n’ Roll, a limited exhibition that began June 20 and runs to January 2, reveals how science and technology influenced the birth and evolution of this popular music genre.

Through this highly interactive exhibit, visitors can learn the fundamental building blocks of music, discover how instruments work, understand how sounds are produced and recorded and study careers of successful rock and roll artists.

Seven interactive galleries allow guests to create their own musical compositions and recordings.

The Michigan Science Center is a hands-on museum that offers programs to inspire children and families to discover, explore and appreciate science, technology and math in a fun, interactive environment and strives to significantly impact the cultural and economic renewal of Detroit.

Cost: $19.95/adults; $16.95/ages 2-12. Location: 5020 John R., Detroit. For more information, visit Mi-Sci.org. or call 313-577-8400.

Detroit’s Finest

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313.833.7100 FREE WIFI!71 Garfield, Ste. #50 • Detroit Hours: Mon-Sat 10-6 • Sun 11-3

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us, we can interact with them on a deeper level than ever before,” explains Braswell.

Braswell assists others to bring forth and express their potential and purpose through connecting with them energetically and at a deep soul level so that they may achieve and experience greater levels of health, happiness, fulfillment and abundance in their lives now. Through cleansing, balancing and raising a person’s energetic vibration, providing insight and guidance, activating the remembrance of their gifts, talents and purpose, and clearing them at soul level, she assists others in living the life they were meant to live and deserve.

Cost: Free. Location: 6231 N. Canton Center Rd., Ste. 109, Canton. To register (required), email Tammy at CreateByVibration@gmail.com or call 734-716-2881. Visit CreateByVibration. com for more information.

newsbriefs

Yoga Shelter Midtown Hosts Community Events

Yoga 4 Peace Offers Teacher Training Program

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oga 4 Peace, a nonprofit yoga studio in Southgate and a licensed proprietary school in Michigan, is offering a 200-hour yoga teachers’ training program starting January 18. Orientation for the program is scheduled at 1 p.m., January 5.

Designed for those who want to take yoga to the next level, the course will explore the history of yoga, teach the importance of breath control, discuss the differences in body types and how they affect individuals in their practice and identify and refine tools teachers use to lead successful yoga sessions, including proper voice and tone, rhythm and flow, background music, principles of the life force energy prana and the exploration of the energy receptors nadis and chakras.

The teacher training program at Yoga 4 Peace, started in 2002, is the second longest running Yoga Alliance certified hatha yoga teacher training in Michigan.

Upon successful completion of course requirements, graduates are eligible for the Registered Yoga Teacher (RYT) 200 certification from Yoga Alliance.

Yoga Alliance is a U.S. national education and support organization whose standards provide teachers with a solid foundation for their yoga teaching practice and help protect the health and safety of society. These standards encompass the many aspects of yoga, including anatomy and physiology, yoga lifestyle and ethics, teaching methodology and techniques training.

Cost: $1800-2400/suggested. Location: 13550 Dix Toledo Rd., Southgate. For more information, call 734-282-9642, email heathers@Y4Peace.org. or visit Y4Peace.org.

Need some help learning to use your computer?

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• One-on-one individual sessions • Learn at your own pace • Target specifically what you want to learn.

Call Mary Anne at 586-943-5785

— Your Computer Tutor —

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oga Shelter will host two events at its Midtown Detroit studio in celebration of the community helping to revitalize the city of Detroit. The first event, Round 2: Hitting the Ground, a self-defense class teaching practical techniques and how to use the ground, is scheduled from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m., December 1.

Come Together, a workshop led by instructors Tim Clark and Naomi Ruth celebrating the power of coming together both physically and spiritually, runs from 7 to 9 p.m., December 13.

Yoga Shelter is a community that

promotes a strong body and mind and activates peace and contentment, according to Midtown studio manager Ruth. She says the community feel of Yoga Shelter mirrors the inclusiveness, connectivity, and determination that is shining in Detroit.

The first Yoga Shelter studio opened in 2004 in West Bloomfield.

Since that time locations have been added in Birmingham, Royal Oak, Grosse Pointe, Los Angeles and the most recent studio, in Downtown Detroit at 110 Clifford. “All of our events, programs and classes give students focus, a path to follow and a philosophy to live by,” says Eric Paskel, certified yoga instructor and founder of Yoga Shelter.

Cost: $25 each. Location: 69 W. Forest, Detroit. To register (required) or for more information, visit YogaShelter.com or call 313-831-9642.

natural awakenings

December 2013

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newsbriefs Donations Needed for Caps, Coats N’ Kids Program

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onations of 4,000 new coats, hats and gloves are needed for children who otherwise might go without. Each year, the Capuchin Soup Kitchen in Detroit collects the clothing and provides parents an opportunity to shop for each of their children under the age of 10.

George Gaerig, Capuchin Services Center manager, says that this year they are in need of coats that are sized 10 through 18. “Last year we didn’t have enough large coats for all those who needed them,” explains Gaerig. The new apparel will be accepted at the Capuchin Services Center until December 21.

The Capuchin Soup Kitchen was founded in 1929 by Fr. Solanus Casey, serving Metro Detroit by providing food, clothing and nourishment for the soul and spirit. In addition to the food and clothing distribution services, current programs include free meals served at two dining room sites, substance abuse services, the Earthworks Urban Farm, On the Rise bakery and a children’s tutoring and art therapy program.

Rejuvenate with Classes at Softstone Yoga

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oftstone Yoga in Plymouth is hosting a yoga seminar from 7 to 8:15 p.m., on December 11. Owner and certified yoga and meditation instructor Jennifer Lenders will introduce the practice of yoga through poses, deep breathing and deep relaxation.

“This seminar will give you the holiday recharge you need and a renewed commitment to your own well-being during a season of high demand,” says Lenders, who is also a

Location: 6333 Medbury St., Detroit. To make a donation, call 313-925-0514 or visit cskDetroit.org.

Go Santa Go Race to Benefit SOS Community Services

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5k race in support of SOS Community Services, a nonprofit organization dedicated to preventing and ending family homelessness, is set for 9 a.m., December 7, at Rolling Hills Park in Ypsilanti Township. NR Road Racing, an Indianapolis-based company, is hosting the Go Santa Go event, which will also benefit Toys for Tots.

Suitable for all ages, this event promises to get all in the holiday spirit with participants receiving their choice of Santa shirt, hat and beard or elf shirt and hat to wear while running to festive music and candy and cookies served along the course. To further spread the holiday joy, donations of a $10 unwrapped children’s toy will be accepted for Toys for Tots.

SOS Community Services strives to provide comprehensive services that move families from homelessness to self-sufficiency and permanent, stable housing in Washtenaw County.

NR Road Racing hosts a variety of races, including Color Bash, Glow in the Night, Run Foam Run and the Chocolate 5k, with a portion of its earnings benefiting select local charities.

Cost: $45/individuals. Location: 7660 Stony Creek Rd., Ypsilanti Township. For more information, to volunteer or to register (required), visit NRRoadRacing.com.

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certified personal trainer.

Lenders recently completed her white belt training in Nia and is now offering the mind, body movement class, which blends martial arts with dance and healing arts to energetic music, in her studio located within Rejuvenation Fitness gym. Other classes offered at Softstone Yoga include Vinyasa, power yoga, healing backs yoga, kids and teen yoga and TRX strength training, all in a personal environment with classes not exceeding 10.

Cost: $15/seminar; $10/Nia. Location: 15091 Northville Rd., Plymouth. For more information, visit SoftstoneYoga. com, email Jennifer@SoftstoneYoga.com or call 734-776-2554.

newsbriefs Get in Shape at Schoolcraft College

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rom aerobics to tennis, strength training, Zumba, kickboxing, yoga, swimming, fencing, and more, Schoolcraft College is offering fun and affordable fitness classes this winter designed to help youth and adults stay fit.

All classes are open to the public with nominal fees, and senior discounts are available for ages 60 and over. Schoolcraft’s continuing education and professional development classes do not require a formal admissions process.

Visit SchoolCraft.edu/cepd for a complete schedule of classes and to register or call 734-462-4448 for more information.

Donations Needed for Foster Care Children

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onations of unwrapped toys are needed that will be given out to foster care children aged 12 and under at the Holiday Bazaar event, created by the Help Closet, a program of For The Seventh Generation, a nonprofit organization that supports foster children by matching donated services and goods with children who need them.

Donations will be accepted at the Samaritan Center annex building until December 13. The Help Closet partnered with the Samaritan Center of Detroit, which provides a physical location to drop off donations and a place for foster families and children to select the items they need.

For The Seventh Generation is a program of the Detroit Metropolitan Bar Association Foundation in cooperation with the 3rd Judicial Circuit Court and the Michigan Department of Human Services.

Location: 11475 Shoemaker St., Detroit. To make a donation, call Shirley Roseman at 313-529-1813 or email HelpCloset@detroitlawyer.org. Drop-off hours are 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Mondays, and 1 to 4 p.m., Tuesdays.

Share the Gift of Health and Receive a Free Chair Massage

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irst time customers can receive a free chair massage, upon availability, with the purchase of any holiday promotion from Holistic Health Center and Massage in Plymouth, formerly known as the Health Spa of Plymouth. Share the gift of health with family and friends with a gift basket or gift certificate. Receive a complimentary list of 101 uses with the purchase of peppermint oil, which relieves headaches, stress, tension, muscle soreness and more, as well as adds warmth to a room with the scent of Christmas.

Serving clients with a holistic approach to health and wellness, Holistic Health Center and Massage services include chiropractic care by Dr. Elizabeth Sisk, massage, anti-aging facials, infrared sauna, antioxidant level check, detoxification, waxing and laser light therapy. The Center also sells Pharmanex, Metagenics and NuSkin products.

Location: 1075 Ann Arbor Rd., Plymouth. For more information, call 734-454-5600 or visit TheHealthSpaOfPlymouth.com.

natural awakenings

December 2013

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healthbriefs

Sprinkle Cinnamon to Avert Alzheimer’s

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innamon is known as an excellent antioxidant that improves fasting blood sugar levels and prevents heart disease. Now new research offers yet another benefit and reason to add this potent spice to our daily diet.

Researchers at the University of California, Santa Barbara, have confirmed that cinnamon helps protect against Alzheimer’s disease. They found that the cinnamon compounds cinnamaldehyde and epicatechin help stop the formation of “tangles” of tau protein in the brain, hallmarks of the memory-robbing neurodegenerative disease.

The study, published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease, says these powerful antioxidants that give cinnamon its potent flavor and scent defend mental function in a unique way. “Take, for example, sunburn, a form of oxidative damage,” explains Roshni Graves, of the university’s Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology. “If you wore a hat, you could protect your face and head from oxidation. In a sense, this cinnamaldehyde is like a cap,” protecting against tau proteins.

The findings suggest that sufficient cinnamon consumption might stop the progression of Alzheimer’s or even prevent it.

Cocoa Calms Inflammation

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ew can say no to a cup of hot cocoa on a cold winter’s night. “Enjoy!” say Penn State researchers. They have found that a little bit of cocoa may be a powerful diet aid in helping to control inflammation and ameliorate related diseases, including diabetes. Numerous current studies link obesity to inflammation in the body.

Cocoa, although a common ingredient of chocolate, by itself has low-calorie, low-fat and high-fiber content. The researchers fed laboratory mice the human equivalent of 10 tablespoons of cocoa powder—about four or five cups of hot cocoa—along with a high-fat diet for 10 weeks. The control group ate the same diet without the cocoa.

Lead researcher Joshua Lambert, Penn State associate professor of food science, says the study results surprised the team, which did not expect the “dramatic reduction of inflammation and fatty liver disease” associated with obesity. Although the animals lost no weight, the cocoa powder supplement reduced liver triglycerides by 32 percent and plasma insulin levels by 27 percent, indicating it might be a powerful obesityfighting tool.

But there is a catch: Adding sugar, an inflammatory substance in itself, to healthy cocoa will likely neutralize the benefits. Try stevia as a sweetener instead; it’s been used for decades to lower blood sugar.

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MEDITATION HELPS HEAL TRAUMATIZED VETERANS

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ranscendental Meditation (TM) has a dramatic healing effect on people with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and can also result in lower blood pressure, according to two new studies.

TM—a technique to avoid distracting thoughts, decrease stress and promote a state of relaxed awareness— reduced PTSD symptoms in combat veterans by as much as 50 percent in just eight weeks, according to a study from Georgetown University, in Washington, D.C., published in the journal Military Medicine. The veterans also reported decreased depression and improved quality of life, with a greater ability to come back to their civilian lives after returning from duty.

Vietnam War vets randomly assigned to TM sessions at a Denver Veterans Center also experienced greater reductions in alcohol usage, insomnia and depression than those in conventional counseling. At the conclusion of a landmark three-month study, 70 percent of the meditating veterans felt they no longer required the services of the center.

A separate American Heart Association report on the general U.S. population showed that the practice of TM generally reduced systolic blood pressure in subjects by five points and diastolic by three points, enough to put many of them into normal range. Previous clinical trials have shown that lower blood pressure through TM practice is associated with significantly lower rates of death, heart attack and stroke.

TM is usually practiced for 15 to 20 minutes twice a day by sitting comfortably and focusing on an individually selected word or series of words.

healthbriefs

Cranberries Support Healthy Circulation

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egularly drinking cranberry juice may help control blood pressure, according to new findings presented at the American Heart Association’s High Blood Pressure Research 2012 Scientific Sessions. Cranberry juice, the researchers note, is rich in antioxidants—naturally occurring molecules that have been associated with the blood pressure-lowering benefit.

U.S. Department of Agriculture researchers discovered a moderate systolic pressure reduction—about three points— for people that drank two eight-ounce glasses of cranberry juice every day for eight weeks. Because of the sugar calories in juice, consider the alternative of a whole-food cranberry supplement.

The sweet, warm, balsamic aroma of frankincense can stimulate and elevate the mind.

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eeply rooted in ancient times, the Egyptians used Frankincense in rejuvenation face masks. In the Middle East it was considered the holy anointing oil and used in religious ceremonies. Frankincense was one of the gifts given by the Three Wise Men to baby Jesus. Today it is most commonly found in skin care products, perfumes and incense. But with antiseptic, astringent and cytophylactic properties, it also has many medicinal uses when employed in aromatherapy.

Frankincense, also known as olibanum, is made from the aromatic resin of the Boswellia tree, which

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grows in the Arabian Peninsula, East Africa and India.

Inhaling the aroma of frankincense oil is thought to transmit messages to the brain region involved in controlling emotions, making it an ideal use for reducing stress and promoting deep breathing and relaxation. With anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, frankincense oil can open breathing passages, relieve cold symptoms and even disinfect a room. These same healing properties also help to mend oral problems such as bad breath, swollen gums and toothaches when combined with water and other essential oils such as peppermint. The cytophylactic properties which help protect existing cells and encourage new cell growth, along with the astringent properties, promote healing of wounds and scars and make frankincense a powerful ingredient in anti-aging creams. natural awakenings

December 2013

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

Genuinely Greenwashed Six Ploys to Avoid in Eco-Purchases

A report by TerraChoice Environmental Marketing exposes these six “greenwashing” marketing ploys to watch out for when shopping: 1. Hidden Trade Off: A refurbished plasma TV might reduce the need of buying new at first, but new or not, such TVs are energy hogs.

2. No Proof: Can a third party verify claims such as “organic” or “allnatural”?

3. Vagueness: Beware of products claiming to be “chemical-free” or “no hormones added”.

4. Irrelevance: Claims that have no relationship to the product or might be made with any other product in the same category, such as [chlorofluorocarbon] CFC-free shaving gel.

5. Fibbing: A falsehood that can’t be backed up, such as “certified organic” for products for which no such certification exists.

6. Lesser of Two Evils: An attempt to put a green twist on a product that’s inherently harmful to humans and the environment, such as organic cigarettes.

Escalating Thirst

Endangered Western Tree Habitats A team of scientists at the University of Grenoble, in France, have isolated ultrasonic pops 100 times faster than what a human can hear in slivers of dead pine wood bathed in a hydrogel to simulate the conditions of a living tree. They exposed the gel to an artificially dry environment and listened for the noises that occurred as air bubbles built up, blocking water uptake, similar to what occurs to trees during drought. As leaves on a tree collect carbon dioxide, they open their pores, a process that leaves them particularly vulnerable to water loss.

Douglas firs and pine trees can repair this damage as frequently as every hour, says Katherine McCulloh, a plant ecophysiologist at Oregon State University. However, the bubbles are deadly for other species.

Today, the typical forest in the often thirsty American West contains an unnaturally high density of 112 to 172 trees per acre. Besides intercepting rain and snow that would otherwise enter the groundwater supply, such an overabundance threatens native species. “Deprived of [the effect of] low-intensity, naturally occurring fires, aspen, lupine, sequoia and fireweed can’t reproduce,” notes Jamie Workman, of the Environmental Defense Fund. “Deer lose edge habitat. Threatened owls and raptors can’t navigate through increasingly dense thickets.” Workman argues that thinning out small trees is the answer.

Contributing source: Utne.com

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Intuitive Generosity Spontaneity Sparks Altruism

What makes people put “we” ahead of “me”? To find out, a group of Harvard University researchers enrolled thousands of people to play a “public good” game in which subjects were divided into small groups, given some money and the choice to keep it or contribute it to a common pool that would grow and benefit the entire group. Researchers discovered that those that made their decisions quickly were more likely to contribute to the common good.

Taking it a step further, the researchers applied time pressure to the decisionmaking process. They then found that those faced with making a quick decision most often chose the “we” option, while those that spent more time deliberating ended up giving less money to the group kitty.

The Massachusetts research team, which tested thousands of online worldwide participants, concluded that spontaneity and intuition guide people into rapid acts of kindness.

Arctic Rescue

Finland Calls for North Pole Sanctuary The Finnish government has adopted a new Arctic Strategy that calls for a global sanctuary around the North Pole as one of the key demands of the growing Save the Arctic movement, reversing its long-held position of backing corporate interests over the environment. The populace responded strongly to a series of actions taken by Greenpeace against government icebreaker ships aiding corporate oil exploration in order to heighten awareness of the issue. The new Finnish policy reflects a mounting world citizenry’s view that the Arctic deserves protection.

Greenpeace points out that companies can wreck the Arctic with little penalty and the current Arctic Council oil spill agreement does nothing to protect the Arctic or impose liability in this the most vulnerable place on Earth. The hope is that the other seven Arctic Council countries will see the light, as well.

Sustainable Solutions

Competition Launched to Measure Ocean Acidification As part of their mission of “making the impossible possible,” organizers of the XPrize, a global leader in incentivized competitions, have launched the $2 million Wendy Schmidt Ocean Health XPrize contest. Schmidt is president of the Schmidt Family Foundation, which strives to advance the development of clean energy and support wiser use of natural resources.

The program aims to spur innovators to transform our understanding of ocean acidification—a grave problem associated with the rise in atmospheric carbon dioxide—via breakthroughs in ocean pH-sensing technologies designed to monitor and sustain ocean health.

For information and to register, visit xprize.org or Facebook.com/xprize.

A Life Changing Novel!

Sign the petition and pitch in at SaveTheArctic.org.

Tagging Toxins

Online Database Identifies Safe Products SafeMarkets.org offers a new clearinghouse of information gathered by advocates investigating toxic chemicals in food, baby products, toys, furniture, construction materials and other consumer goods.

Families, municipalities, builders and businesses can use it to identify potentially harmful products and find safer alternatives.

Hosted by the Workgroup for Safe Markets (WSM), it’s a one-stop shop to provide information for consumers, retailers and manufacturers that are demanding safer products, says Beverley Thorpe, a WSM co-leader and consulting co-director for Clean Production Action.

Mia Davis, vice president of health and safety at Beautycounter, who is expecting her first child, sees it as a resource for parents to find a full complement of safe products for their families. “More than ever,” she says, “people understand how important it is to shop with companies they trust and to support businesses working to create truly safe products.” natural awakenings

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ecotip Family Games Generate Goodwill All Year Fun family games based on cards, trivia and charades are quintessential holiday activities.

Now a new generation of games adds fresh dimensions of interest and goodwill. Online games—some are free—extend good tidings to people around the world, as well as our environment. Santa is thrilled.

Eco games galore: From determining our family’s carbon footprint to making ethical decisions as a business leader or learning how to help child populations vulnerable to pneumonia, EcoGamer. org is a gateway to enriching experiences. More than 20 entertaining websites employ informative, eco-related calculations, games and quizzes.

Assist African farmers: Heighten awareness and empathy by experiencing on a virtual basis the immense challenges of life on an African farm, including dealing with disease, drought, a lack of resources and war, at 3rdWorldFarmer.com/About. html. Free trials are available, plus links to international nonprofit organizations and relief groups.

Become a citizen scientist: At FilamentGames.com/projects/citizen-science, players travel back in time to investigate how a lake became polluted and what can be

done today to protect our waterways.

Developed by the National Science Foundation, in partnership with the University of Wisconsin, it illustrates business, lifestyle and social factors that can harm the environment.

Learn and feed: FreeRice.com allows players to automatically help feed hungry people with rice donations through the United Nations World Food Program. Players select from specific subjects: art, chemistry, geography, English, other languages and math. Each correct answer donates 10 grains of rice as participants watch the contents of a virtual bowl gradually fill.

Tabletop games: Bioviva (Bioviva.com), Destruct 3 (UncleSkunkleToys.com), ReThink: The Eco Design Game (PlayReThink.com), Xeko (Xeko.com) and Endango (search Amazon.com) are all new takes on the traditional pastime of board games. Some are made of recycled materials, to boot.

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Socra Tea is also a place to shop for jewelry, paintings and photographs from local artists. Their large gallery is filled with ceramics from neighboring studio Sugar Hill Clay and wood pieces by The End Grain Woodworking Company, which uses reclaimed materials from deconstructed houses in Detroit.

With a passion for being a place for the community to gather, share

Socra Tea: Steeping the World’s Finest Teas for Customers in Midtown

T

ea drinkers in Detroit no longer have to travel outside the city limits to get a superior cup of tea. Socra Tea opened its doors one year ago as Detroit’s first tea house and gallery, offering 70 varieties of tea that are rated in the top half percent of the world’s finest teas.

Located in the garden level of 71 Garfield, a newly renovated green historic building in the Sugar Hill Arts District in Midtown Detroit, this family-owned and operated business sells loose leaf tea, both hot and cold, by the cup for those on the go, or by the pot, for those who choose to stay and enjoy the warmth of this eco-friendly, inviting space. Socra Tea also sells tea in bulk in 50, 100, 250 and 500 gram bags for those who choose to enjoy their tea at home.

“Our mission at Socra Tea is to provide our customers with an exceptional cup of tea at an extremely fair price,” says owner Meg Provenzino.

“We designed Socra Tea to be a relaxing, nourishing environment that everyone feels comfortable at. We strive to provide as much knowledge about tea for our customers as we can, and we are constantly educating ourselves to further improve their purchasing and drinking experience.”

That means buying only the best of the annual world tea harvested and purchasing from suppliers with close personal contacts to expert growers. Not only does this ensure quality and rarity, but it also makes certain the companies and gardens Socra Tea buys from participate in sustainable practices for both the environment and workers in the tea industry.

Provenzino explains that many teas consumed around the world do not undergo any testing. All of the teas at Socra Tea meet or surpass USDA organic standards, with nearly all of the collection of teas offered tested in Germany, where strict government regulations are in place for tea safety. In Germany, every tea, whether grown organically or conventionally, is tested for pesticide and heavy metal residue.

a pot of tea, enjoy a biscotti and exchange good conversation, Socra Tea hosts events such as knitting groups, DIY plus tea (do-it-yourself crafts), pop-up dinners, baby and child sign classes and yoga. They strive to offer the highest quality tea in an urban setting and hope to convert the coffeecentered city of Detroit one cup of tea at a time.

Socra Tea is located at 71 Garfield, Suite 50, in Detroit. Business hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Saturday, and 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sunday. Free Wi-Fi is available. For more information and events, visit SocraTeaDetroit.com, visit them on Facebook.com/Socrateadetroit or call 313-833-7100.

natural awakenings

December 2013

15

harvested. Two processes that can increase the amount of vitamins and minerals in foods are sprouting and fermenting. Freshly picked sprouts that are immediately refrigerated will continue to grow and increase in nutrients.

Creating Healthy Holiday Traditions

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reparing food for festive gatherings is part of the holiday tradition. It’s a great way to spend time together with family and friends and offers an opportunity to teach children how to create new dishes and traditions.

Learning to prepare recipes using fresh and healthy ingredients in place of packaged ones can preserve the flavor and food value.

While taste is important when preparing food, the nutritional value is equally important. How food is packaged, the form of the food when it is consumed and the method used to cook the food impact its nutritional quality.

CHOOSE HEALTHY INGREDIENTS

When grocery shopping, choose foods that are organic or locally grown and products that are not genetically modified or engineered (GM, GMO, GE). Organic and nonGMOs limit exposure to pesticides, hormones and additives.

Organic plant-based foods have been found to contain, on average, a 25 percent higher concentration of vitamins, antioxidants and minerals than their conventionally grown counterparts, according to several studies.

Buying locally grown ensures the produce is fresh and hasn’t spent days on a truck being transported, although it does not mean it is free from pesticides. Produce that is shipped from far away locations may have been picked before it’s ripe, preventing it from ever reaching its nutritional potential.

Food starts to lose nutritional value as soon as it is

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COOKING METHODS

The optimum way to cook vegetables is to lightly steam them until they change color, but remain crispy. Studies of various cooking methods have found most vegetables retain more nutrients when steamed compared to boiling, microwaving and frying. Keep in mind that some antioxidants, including water-soluble vitamin C, will be lost to a certain degree when heated. The amount of nutrient loss is influenced by the cooking method, temperature and amount of time cooked.

Vegetables that are boiled lose some of their nutritional value because the nutrients leach out into the cooking water. Boiling carrots is one exception to this. An experiment conducted by Italian researchers found boiling carrots increased their carotenoid content while steaming and frying reduced it, according to a Harvard health publication. One explanation for this may be that carrots take longer to cook when steamed. Research suggests that shorter cooking times of vegetables helps to preserve more nutrients.

Frozen produce can lose 5 to 20 percent of their nutritional value, depending on the initial quality of the food, length of time between harvest and freezing and how they are packaged. The nutrient retention in organically grown foods that are fresh at the time of freezing can be quite high.

Thawing frozen vegetables before cooking them has shown a greater vitamin C loss than cooking them frozen.

Overcooking grilled foods can deplete nutrients and also increase the production of toxic substances when extreme heat is used. When possible, low heat is best with shorter cooking times. The cookbook, Nourishing Traditions, by nutrition researcher Sally Fallon offers information on nutrition and food preparation techniques as well as practical recipes.

PESTICIDES AND GMOS

Residue from pesticides is now showing up in blood samples of many Americans. According to Pesticide Action Network North America (PANNA), a group that works to replace the use of hazardous pesticides, 93 percent of Americans tested by the Centers for Disease Control and

Prevention had chlorpyrifos, a pesticide linked to ADHD, in their urine. The good news is that within five days of switching children’s diets from conventional to organic fruits and vegetables, pesticide metabolites become undectable, demonstrated in a 2003-2004 study conducted by researchers at Emory University in Georgia.

The growing of genetically engineered crops led o an increase of 404 million pounds of pesticides in the U.S. from 1996 to 2011, according to a report using data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). It is best to avoid genetically modified foods, but this is becoming increasingly more difficult as genetically engineered crops now account for almost one in every two acres of harvested U.S. cropland, according to a study published in 2012 by a Washington State University research professor. The USDA reports that 90 percent of corn, 93 percent of soybean and 80 percent of cotton harvested in the U.S. are GE, making them the three biggest GE crops grown in the U.S.

Nearly 80 percent of processed foods contain GMOs. This includes cereal, chips, cookies, snack bars, gluten-free products, corn starch, sweeteners such as corn syrup and most likely any food with canola, corn or soy-derived ingredients unless labeled 100 percent organic or non-GMO. The U.S. government does not mandate labeling of GM products, leaving the consumer responsible for reading food labels to avoid GMOs. The Non-GMO Project, a non-profit organization that does verification and labeling for non-GMO foods, is committed to educating consumers about GMOs. The organization’s website contains a list of nonGMO products and brands, along with facts about GMOs and other valuable

information for consumers. Choosing foods certified as organic ensures it was not genetically engineered and was produced without synthetic chemicals, fertilizers, radiation and sewage sludge.

The holiday season can be a time of great joy and sharing of many festive foods with family and friends. Create new traditions by learning to cook with healthy, nutritional ingredients.

Dr. Carol Ann Fischer, DC, ND owns TLC Holistic Wellness located at 31580 Schoolcraft Rd., Livonia. She has provided holistic and nutritional recommendations using live water, diet and whole food supplements for 28 years as a practicing chiropractor and naturopath-wellness consultant.

Visit TLCHolisticWellness.com for more information and free public workshop dates, or call 734-664-0339.

Foods to Avoid and Suggested Substitutes Avoid These Foods

Junk Food Snacks (contain corn and other GMO foods canola/cottonseed oil) (Corn sweeteners are GMO and contaminated with mercury)

Replace With These Foods ORGANIC Fresh Fruit or Whole Food Snacks (Look for minimal use of sweeteners.)

White Bread (Contains GMOs)

Whole Grain Sprouted Bread

Prepackaged White Flour (no nutrients)

Fresh Ground Organic Whole Grain Flours

White Sugar (made from GMO corn)

Stevia, Organic 100% Cane Sugar, Organic Honey, Organic Coconut Sugar, Organic Raw Sugar or Organic Maple Syrup

White Table Salt (contains aluminum)

Celtic Sea Salt contains at least 75 minerals and is not refined (Sea Salt may be refined resulting in less minerals )

Commercially Prepared Oils, Shortening, Margarine(Usually synthetic oils with added chemicals and food colors) Canola Oil /Cottonseed Oil (from GMO seeds)

Organic Coconut Oil Organic Cold-Pressed Food Oils (best in dark bottles) Organic Extra-Virgin Olive Oil

Dried Fruits with sulfur and food coloring (food colors are now mixed with aluminum)

Organic Dried Fruits

Commercial Soy Products including soymilk, tofu, soy protein and veggie-burgers (93% of soy is now GMO)

Organic Almond Milk or Rice Milk or Make your own milk from organic nuts/seeds, good filtered water and a blender.

natural awakenings

December 2013

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Near Death Experiences Proof of Life after Death

by Linda Sechrist

access defibrillation programs, as well as cardiopulmonary resuscitation, are major factors that allow modern medicine to bring people back from a state that 100 years ago would have been labeled death,” observes Moody.

Through his research, he has identified numerous common elements that occur in NDEs—an out-of-body experience, the sensation of traveling through a tunnel, encountering a bright light (usually interpreted as God, Jesus or an angel), communicating with deceased relatives, feeling emotions such as profound peace, well-being and love, plus a flood of knowledge about life and the nature of the universe. Perhaps the most significant element he reports is the supremely conscious and superbly blissful state that exists beyond both limitations of the senses and intellect and the confines of space and time— the pure conscious form of each one’s truly real Self.

Life as Love

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he advice that the White Queen gave to young Alice in Lewis Carroll’s Through the LookingGlass might be some of the best to offer non-believers and skeptics that question the credibility of near-death experiences (NDE). When Alice protests, “One can’t believe impossible things,” the White Queen famously retorts, “I daresay you haven’t had much practice.

When I was your age, I always did it for half-an-hour a day. Why, sometimes I believed as many as six impossible things before breakfast.”

Glimpses of Grace

The majority of physicians and clinical researchers in the medical community continue to consider NDEs as impossible and merely pure fantasies generated by a surge of electrical activity as a dying brain runs out of oxygen.

However, according to a Gallup poll, the 8 million Americans whose transcendental NDEs freed their consciousness to leave the body and enter into a wondrous reality that exists completely free of physicality, believe them to be real, meaningful and life-

18 Wayne County Edition

I was overwhelmed by the re-

alization that God isn’t a being,

but a state of being… and I am that state of being… pure consciousness.

~ Anita Moorjani changing experiences.

Recently, the renowned NDE narratives of Anita Moorjani, author of Dying to Be Me: My Journey from Cancer to Near Death, to True Healing, and Dr. Eben Alexander, author of Proof of Heaven: A Neurosurgeon’s Journey into the Afterlife, have sparked fresh public interest in NDEs, a word coined

by Raymond Moody, Ph.D., in his 1975 classic, Life After Life. Moody, a psychiatrist and professor of philosophy who has spent nearly 50 years investigating what happens when people die, has interviewed thousands of individuals that have personally experienced an NDE.

“Over the past 20 years there have been enormous strides in resuscitation technology. Defibrillators and public

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Rushed to the hospital in a coma, Moorjani, whose body had been devoured for four years by cancer of the lymphatic system, describes the real self that she discovered during her NDE. “There I was, without my body or any physical traits, yet my pure essence continued to exist. It was not a reduced element of my whole self; in fact, it felt far greater and more intense and expansive than my physical being.

“I felt eternal, as if I’d always existed and always would, without a beginning or end. I was filled with the knowledge that I was simply magnificent,” explains Moorjani, whose cancer completely disappeared within five weeks after her release from the hospital.

“Not only did I come back with a clean slate, I brought back one of my biggest lessons—to love myself and be an instrument of love. I also returned to life here with a sense of purpose—to fearlessly be as authentically me as I can be. This means,” she clarifies, “that in whatever I do, I am acting from my sense of passion and the sheer joy of doing it.”

During Alexander’s seven-day coma in a hospital, brought about by antibiotic-resistant E. coli meningitis that attacked his brain, he left his mortal identity behind. “My brain

“We need to accept—at least hypothetically—that the brain itself doesn’t produce consciousness.” ~ Dr. Eben Alexander wasn’t working at all,” he relates. “My entire neo-cortex, the part that makes us human, was entirely shut down. I had no language, emotions, logic or memories of who I was. Such an empty slate granted me full access to the true cosmic being that I am, that we all are,” says Alexander. He further recalls that as his NDE unfolded, it occurred to him that he was being granted a grand overview of the invisible side of existence.

He also had a lovely ethereal companion that floated along on a butterfly wing, telepathically teaching him to accept the universal truth that, “You are eternally loved and cherished, you have nothing to fear, and there is nothing you can do wrong.”

“If I had to boil the whole message

down to just one word, it would be Love—the incomprehensibly glorious truth of truths that lives and breathes at the core of everything that exists or will ever exist. No remotely accurate understanding of who we are and what we are can be achieved by anyone who does not know it and embody it in all their actions,” Alexander now understands.

Prior to his life-threatening illness, this neurosurgeon’s sophisticated medical training had led him to dismiss the possibility of NDEs. Today, he works at returning to his NDE state of oneness and unconditional love by using meditation and sacred acoustics, as well as quantum mechanics, to explore the nature of consciousness and higher brain function.

Like Moody, Alexander studies the ancient Greek philosophers Parmenides, Pythagoras and Plato, who took the notion of an afterlife seriously and questioned “what” survives bodily death. Alexander’s consequent nonprofit organization, Eternea, fos-

ters cooperation between science and spirituality by sponsoring research and education about spiritually transformative experiences and holistic consciousness beyond conventional definitions.

“I had to learn a whole lot more about consciousness than I had to know about neuroscience,” quips Alexander, who now believes that the brain blocks access to knowledge of higher worlds.

“We need to accept—at least hypothetically—that the brain itself doesn’t produce consciousness. That it is, instead, a kind of reducing valve or filter that dumbs down consciousness for the duration of our human experience.

“Neuroscience can’t give you the first sentence about how the physical brain creates consciousness,” he states, while many are finding how science and spirituality strengthen each other.

At age 37, a blood vessel exploded in the left hemisphere of Jill Bolte Taylor’s brain. A Ph.D. Harvard-trained scientist specializing in anatomy of the brain, she was fascinated to observe the breakdown of her brain-related functions.

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December 2013

19

“In touch with our wholeness, illness can’t remain—in ourselves, others or the planet.” ~Anita Moorjani

As described in her book, My Stroke of Insight: A Brain Scientist’s Personal Journey, she became the witness to her stroke, which initially left her unable to talk, walk, read, write or remember anything prior to that occurrence.

As her left brain shut down, Taylor lost her ability to process all language; with her mind suspended in newfound silence, she experienced an unprecedented sense of deep peace. She also experienced an inability to visually distinguish edges and boundaries between herself and the outer world.

Absent conventional orientation, “I could actually see that my skin was not my physical boundary.

“As a result of such a glorious state of blissful realization that I am—as we all are—connected to everything and everyone around us, I no longer see myself as a single, solid entity, separate from other human beings,” advises Taylor. “Although my left mind still thinks of me as a fragile individual, capable of losing my life, my right mind realizes the essence of my being as eternal life.” She now understands that she is part of the cosmic flow of energy, which she characterizes as a tranquil sea of euphoria.

Present Possibility

In The Hidden Face of God: Science Reveals the Ultimate Truth, author Gerald L. Schroeder, Ph.D., suggests that each of us is a part of the universe seeking and finding itself. Could it be that without the mental filter and self-limiting beliefs, we are free to consciously know our higher state of wholeness and the truth of our magnificence?

Upwards of 8 million people that have experienced their own NDE are trending the world toward a tipping point into the comforting awareness that anything is possible.

Linda Sechrist is a senior staff writer for Natural Awakenings. Visit ItsAllAboutWe. com for the recorded interviews.

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INSIGHTS WORTH SHARING

by Linda Sechrist

A

“I’ve become focused sked why she just my own enthought she ergy manifesting on seeing the perfection of as cancer, because had cancer, Anita Moorjani, my fears weren’t life in this moment.” author of Dying to allowing me to exBe Me, sums up press myself as the her answer in one word: Fear. “I was magnificent force I was meant to be,” killing myself, and cancer saved me,” advises Moorjani. says Moorjani, whose book documents She hopes that her presentaher near-death experience (NDE) and tions to medical professionals and the higher realm she encountered public speaking will influence how when her body shut down. Allowed the health profession views cancer to identify with her true magnificence, and other diseases and illnesses. undistorted by the fear generated “Treatment needs to be about more by her own lifelong self-judgment, than medicine, because so much of self-criticism, worry and lack of selfdisease has to do with our emotions,” forgiveness, she returned with a vital, she imparts, “especially the ones we heartfelt message. direct toward ourselves.”

“Everyone is an amazing, mag Through this life-enhancing expenificent being, with great capacity for rience, Moorjani came to understand health, happiness and joy. Although why she owes it to herself, everyone we’ve been conditioned to believe that she meets and life itself to always exwe need to pursue success and learn press her own unique essence. “Trying to improve ourselves to be happy, such to be anything or anyone else doesn’t steps are unnecessary, because we make me better—it just deprives me already are all we are trying to attain,” of my true self and keeps me from she says. interacting authentically with others,”

“I’d spent a lifetime feeling she explains. inadequate, beating myself up for

Moorjani now knows that all life not meeting my own expectations,” in the universe is one and our core she continues. Through the clarity is love. “I was overwhelmed by the of dwelling in the NDE realm, she realization that God isn’t a being, but understood that the cancer wasn’t a state of being… and I am that state a punishment for anything. “It was of being… pure consciousness.”

NaturalAwakeningsDetroit.com

Spirit

An Insight into

Guides

by: Tammy Braswell

I

t is the unseen that many people find themselves fascinated with: exploring the future and reconnecting to the past. Throughout it all, people are never really alone, even in times that feel like their darkest moments. Every person is surrounded by nonphysical beings, or spirit guides, whose purpose is to offer guidance, direction and support.

When a person is born into their physical body, they enter with the guidance and assistance of a spirit guide.

Throughout the ages of childhood, teens and early twenties, between four and six spirit guides join their inner circle team. These guides were incarnated in human form at one time in history and have now taken on the job of guiding a person through their physical existence. Since the spirit guides were once incarnated, they understand the human experiences and have the ability to see the bigger picture of what is happening in the life of the person they are guiding.

Spirit guides are higher level souls with more spiritual experience than the person they are assisting. They are not considered deceased loved ones or angels, although a person can receive guidance from these beings.

The role of spirit guides is not to make decisions for a person but rather to offer them support, direction and guidance through intuitive nudges so that the person can live their life more fully in their divinity and purpose.

Spirit guides may also intervene during an unforeseen lifethreatening situation to assist or save the life of the person they are guiding.

The spirit guides join the team at different times during a person’s life, on an as needed basis, and may stay the entire lifetime of the person or for a brief period of time, depending on the circumstances. If a person is moving to a new home, the guide that joins the team at that time may be energetically there to assist them with the move and

getting acclimated to their new environment. That particular spirit guide will most likely remain with the person for the remainder of their life. There are instances where guides are brought onto the team temporarily for assistance and then leave the team when their job is complete. Negative guides are invited on when situations that the person is going through are very negative, such as when there is abuse or violence. The negative guides do remain on a person’s team until they are identified and requested to leave, at which time a new guide would become part of the team.

Whether or not a person believes in spirit guides is not essential; this does not mean they have not been helped by spirit guides. What is important is that a person can learn to communicate with their spirit guides on a personal level, just as they would a friend; and by doing so, a person can receive clearer guidance and direction in their life. The more a person interacts with their guides, the more clear and obvious assistance they can receive.

A person never has to feel alone knowing that they are surrounded and guided at all times, and as much as they would like, by these unseen beings. There can be peace and comfort in this knowledge, and it can change a person’s life for the better.

Tammy Braswell is a Healing Energy practitioner, Intuitive, Lightworker and Soul Realignment® practitioner. She assists others in deep healing and transformation on an energetic and soul level so they may achieve and experience greater health, happiness, fulfillment and abundance in their lives now. For more information and schedule of workshops, visit CreateByVibration.com, email CreateByVibration@gmail.com or call 734-716-2881. natural awakenings

December 2013

21

Pet First-Aid Kits All-Natural Home Health Care

by Sandra Murphy

F

“

irst-aid is the first thing you can do to help an injured animal if you are prepared,” says Dr. Jason Nicholas, owner of The Preventive Vet, in Portland, Oregon. Attention in cases of injury or sudden illness can help a dog or cat stay more comfortable, stop bleeding and provide temporary relief.

A pet first-aid kit can resemble a pantry more than a medicine cabinet.

Natural components include:

Cool water. Purified water kept in a spray bottle can cool overheated pets.

For the fastest results, spray near the pulse points, the “armpits” and where fur is the thinnest. Further, a vet will assess if clinical hydration is needed beyond the water bowl.

Saline solution. Versatile saline is available at the vet’s office or any pharmacy, and also easy and inexpensive to make at home. Use it to flush debris from eyes, clean wounds and promote healing from incisions. Two teaspoons of non-iodized salt in four cups of boiled water mimics body fluids. The Ohio State University Medical Center website provides a recipe for normal saline solution at Tinyurl.com/SalineRecipe.

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NaturalAwakeningsDetroit.com

Vinegar. It acts as a drying agent, especially for floppy-eared dogs taking a dip in a pool or natural waterway, which can leave the inner ear moist.

“Don’t use vinegar if the skin is red or broken because it will be painful,” says Dr. Jules Benson, vice president of veterinary services at Petplan Pet Insurance, in Newtown Square, Pennsylvania. Never use it more than twice a week.

Honey. Apply this sweet unguent to gums to help counteract low blood sugar and shock, particularly when a diabetic pet’s insulin levels are off.

Maple syrup is a good substitute.

Sugar. Although not recommended in a regular pet diet, sugar can be a topical antibacterial for the short term.

Sugar draws water from the wound and dehydrates bacteria, supporting growth of new tissue.

Plain yogurt. Adding this healthy refrigerated topping to dry food will activate a sluggish appetite and supply needed cultures to help balance the digestive system.

Cornstarch. This non-toxic remedy helps stop minor bleeding from cuts, scrapes and pedicure accidents.

Calendula. Also known as pot marigold, calendula cream may be used as an anti-inflammatory. Bug bites, scrapes, sunburn and itching from allergies also benefit from its application.

Aloe. Easily grown in a garden or pot and available in gel form, aloe sooths burns, prevents blisters and speeds healing. It also serves as canine Chapstick. “Older dogs often have cracked skin on their noses,” notes Benson. “Aloe helps to heal the skin and keeps the dog comfortable.”

Rescue Remedy. Illness or injury brings stress, and one common solution is Rescue Remedy. To relieve fear or anxiety, rub it onto a paw, nose or ears or add the recommended number of drops to water, a treat or food.

It helps dogs, cats, horses, birds, fish and even iguanas. Dosage relies on

adoption spotlight the extent of stress rather than weight or species.

Clean cloths. For bee stings or insect bites on the body, cool compresses can reduce swelling and itching. Wet a washcloth with cold water or for larger welts, wrap an ice pack in a towel and apply for a few minutes at a time. For stings on the face or mouth, it’s best to go to the vet’s office immediately, so that airways don’t swell up and hinder breathing.

Miscellaneous supplies. Keep on hand gauze, tape, small scissors, tweezers (for removing objects from the roof of the mouth or splinters), a small flashlight, clean socks to cover a bandage and disposable gloves to keep human germs out of open wounds. A dog in pain may bite without realizing it.

Nicholas recommends a basket muzzle, so the dog can easily breathe and pant.

When a pet eats or drinks non-food items or foods they shouldn’t, such as chocolate, grapes or onions, head to the local vet. Veterinarian Jeff Levy, in New York City, who is also a certified veterinary acupuncturist, counsels, “Always keep contact information for your vet,

an emergency hospital and animal poison control center handy.” Also, find out where emergency services are located when traveling.

Pets can go into shock just like humans. To prevent or reduce the impact, keep the animal warm and provide a deep massage of the ears, at the base, where ears meet the head. A couple of drops of lavender oil on a collar or bandana will help everyone relax. Do not put essential oils directly on the pet, especially cats, as it can be toxic.

Just like children, pets may have accidents or get sick after office hours.

Stay calm, head for the natural pet pantry and then call the family’s holistic veterinarian.

Sponsored by Natural Awakenings Call us at 586-943-5785 if you would like to sponsor an adoption listing.

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Sandra Murphy is a freelance writer in St. Louis, MO. Connect at StLSandyM@ yahoo.com.

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December 2013

23

Lucky Dog Luxury Daycare and Boarding Opens in Garden City

S

tacy Karafotis and Craig Poisson have opened Lucky Dog Luxury Daycare and Boarding, a full service pet day care, boarding and grooming business, at 5921 Middlebelt, in Garden City.

Lucky Dog comprises nearly 10,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor playrooms padded with Astro Turf and radiant heated floors, walls and kennels that provide comfort to pets, especially those suffering from arthritis or joint problems. With a qualified staff in animal care, including Karafotis, a veterinary technician for nearly 29 years, and Poisson, former owner of an animal day care, Lucky Dog can accommodate pets requiring special medical care such as medications and injections.

The center has 12 webcams, allowing owners to view their pet from anywhere using a computer or smartphone.

Date night is offered on the first Saturday of each month, when owners can drop off their pet 5 to 7 p.m. and pickup before 11 p.m. Starting in January, Lucky Dog is offering do-it-yourself grooming, providing pet owners access to a walk-in tub, bubbles, brushes and grooming supplies to bathe their pets. It also vends a wide range of goods such as dog toys, healthy treats, natural calming chews and jewelry for both pets and people. Microchipping and international pet travel document preparation services are available.

Cost: $25/full day; $13/half day; $35/boarding. Location: 5921 Middlebelt, Garden City. For more information, call 734-261-7387 or visit them on Facebook. com/LuckyDogLuxuryDaycare.

Pet Photos with Santa Claws

H

ave your pet’s picture taken with Santa Claws! You and your pets are invited to pose for a holiday photo with Santa Claws at all PetSmart stores on Saturday, December 7 and Saturday, December 14 from 11 am to 4 pm. Cost is $5 which will be donated to a local rescue group.

New for 2013, pet parents are asked to bring their own camera and snap shots of their animal sitting with Santa. PetSmart will no longer be printing out the photos for you; you will therefore own the rights to the photos you take and can use the images as you wish.

Bring the whole family, both two-legged and four-legged, and get a great holiday picture while supporting homeless pets! If you are looking to adopt a pet for the holiday, check your local stores for adoption events or visit Petfinder.com to browse adoptable pets.

24 Wayne County Edition

NaturalAwakeningsDetroit.com

Program Uses Therapy Dogs to Help Children Improve Reading Skills

M

an’s best friend can’t read but they can be great listeners along with providing unconditional love. Those were the sentiments of Dearborn resident Sandi Martin, board member of Intermountain Therapy Animals (ITA), when she developed the concept of children reading to a dog.

Reading Education Assistance Dog (R.E.A.D.) is a program that employs registered therapy dogs, mainly in a library or school setting, to help children improve their reading and communication skills.

Nonprofit ITA, which specializes in bringing animal-assisted therapy to human needs, piloted the program in 1999 with seven therapy dogs and one cat. Today, there are more than 3,500 R.E.A.D. teams worldwide assisting children in learning how to read as well as building their self-esteem and confidence. The program has been so successful that, in 2009, the U.S. Senate established November 14 as National Reading Education Assistance Dog Day.

To qualify for a R.E.A.D. team, the animal must first be registered with an animal-assisted therapy group which provides training and testing for health, safety, appropriate skills and temperament. Candidates will receive additional training through ITA. For more information or to become a registered R.E.A.D. team, visit TherapyAnimals.org or contact Sandi at BookLady5285@aol.com.

Secret Santa Shoppe and Bake Sale to Support Homeless Pets

petcalendarofevents All Calendar events must be received by the 15th of the month prior to publication, and adhere to our guidelines. Please visit HealthyLivingDetroit. com for guidelines and to submit entries.

B

asil’s Buddies will once again be holding their Secret Santa Shoppe and bake sale at Country Christmas in Trenton to raise money for the rescued pets in their care. The Secret Santa Shoppe is a special shop just for the kids! You can bring your kids and let them shop in a safe environment.

Parents send their kids with a list and a budget while Basil’s Buddies volunteers help them shop for you.

They even wrap the gifts so you will be surprised on Christmas! Many of the items available are from local artists and crafters.

Bring the whole family for photos with Santa and to tour the Victorian style home decorated for the holidays.

There will also be baked goods and gift baskets for sale to help support the animals. All proceeds from the events go to Basil’s Buddies.

Basil’s Buddies will be hosting the events on Saturday, December 14 and Sunday, December 15 from 1 pm to 7pm. On Sunday, a thumbprint artist will be available to capture your family’s thumbprint portrait.

Local author and chairman of Basil’s Buddies, Patti Radakovich, will also be available on Sunday with her children’s book Fireball: The Christmas Kitty.

The Trenton Cultural Center is located at 2427 West Rd in Trenton, at the corner of Edsel. For more information, visit BasilsBuddies.org or email info@ basilsbuddies.org.

FRI, DEC 06, 2013 Low-Cost Vaccine & Microchipping Clinic for Pets ¨C 4:30-7:30pm. Protect your pets from illness even in this economy! Top quality vaccines, heartworm meds, and flea and tick preventatives for dogs and cats at low prices.

Microchips available for $25. Nail trims available for $5. Clinic brought to you by Basil’s Buddies. Check online for prices. Tiny Paws Grooming, 13498 Dix Rd, Southgate.

BasilsBuddies.org, 734-926-1098.

Owl Prowl ¨C 6pm. (12/6-12/7). Join us as we go in search of our resident Eastern Screech owls using Whinnie and Tremmelo calls. Learn all about area owls with 30 minute presentation before going outdoors. Must pre-register. $6.

Nature Center of Oakwoods Metropark, 28700 Oakwod Ave, Flat Rock. MetroParks.com, 734-782-3956.

SAT, DEC 07, 2013 Santa Claws Photos and Pet Adoptions ¨C 11am-4pm. Have your pet’s picture taken with Santa Claws! This year, bring your own camera and be the photographer! A volunteer will be there to assist and cute accessories will be available to dress up your pet. $5. Cost will be donated to Basil’s Buddies. Additionally, cats and kittens will be available for adoption.

PetSmart Woodhaven, 23470 Allen Rd, Woodhaven. BasilsBuddies.org, 734-926-1098.

WED, DEC 11, 2013 Pet Food Bank ¨C 3-5:30pm. 2nd Wed. of every month. Bring proof of your animals which you are seeking assistance for. See website for requirements. Please do not bring animals to this visit. Trenton/Woodhaven Animal Shelter, 21860 Van Horn Rd, Woodhaven. BasilsBuddies.org, 734-926-1098.

FRI, DEC 28, 2013 Pet Adoptions ¨C 3-5pm. Many cats waiting for their fur-ever homes! PetSmart Woodhaven, 23470 Allen Rd, Woodhaven. BasilsBuddies. org, 734-926-1098.

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December 2013

25

greenliving

GREEN Merry Making Retro-Fresh Family Traditions

by Claire O’Neil

T

hroughout the year, Santa’s good girls and boys of all ages make every effort to buy only what’s needed, plus recycle, reuse and repurpose. Then the holidays hit and discipline often gives way to indulgences. The season seems consumed by up-tempo decorating, feasting, shopping, gift-giving and merrymaking at any cost. Yet, creative green living experts show us how easy it is to tweak time-honored family traditions to align with the green way we wish to live and feel even more satisfied with festivities.

Decking the Halls

For Danny Seo, author of Upcycling Celebrations: A Use-WhatYou-Have Guide to Decorating, Gift-Giving & Entertaining, “Upcycling is basically a form of recycling that elevates something to a better level than before.” Based in New York City and Bucks County, Pennsylvania, Seo always has an eye out for green possibilities. “Opt for vintage pieces and re-imagine them in new and interesting ways,” he advises. For example, he likes to upcycle a vintage glass cake stand with a collection of bright ornaments for a unique holiday focal point.

Michele Johansen, a lifestyle writer in Bellevue, Washington, suggests bringing in the outdoors. Instead of decorating the tree with tinsel and the home with plastic faux greenery, she suggests stringing popcorn and cranberries on the tree and decking the halls with fresh wreaths and garlands accented with boughs of holly. “Local nurseries are good sources for holiday décor that you can later mulch or put in yard waste bins,” she says. “The smells are much more authentic and festive.”

Save energy by using LED lights whenever possible, suggests Sheryl Eisenberg, a writer for the National Resources Defense Council. Plug lights and electronics into a power strip, and then unplug it when not in use to save “ghost” energy pulled by electronics that are plugged in, but not activated.

Buy a live tree to later plant or recycle, Seo suggests. This

26 Wayne County Edition

NaturalAwakeningsDetroit.com

supports regional Christmas tree farmers while retaining the integrity of local forests. Many communities offer recycling of holiday trees to provide mulch or habitat for aquatic life in local lakes.

Keeping the Feast

Organize a cookie exchange to get together and save time and energy on holiday baking, suggests Sara Novak, a food policy and health writer at SereneKitchen.com, from Sullivan’s Island, South Carolina. Generally, a hostess asks guests to bring several dozen of their favorite cookies. Once gathered, attendees share the treats and recipes, taking home several of each variety. To “green it up”, Novak recommends emailing the recipes rather than printing them, encouraging invitees to use fresh and local ingredients and bring favorite reusable containers from home, like a colorful, time-honored cookie tin.

For the holiday table, mix and match settings of plates, glasses, linens and cutlery. “Use the real thing,” Eisenberg recommends, “and recruit guests to help wash up afterwards.” She recalls that while growing up, her mother supplemented her silverware with grandmother’s for large holiday dinners.

Save your own energy (and sanity) by asking family and friends to bring an appetizer, side dish or dessert. The hostess can assign a dish and corresponding recipe or use a potluck approach, says Eisenberg. Leftovers go home in non-plastic, reusable containers.

Gift Giving

Many families enjoy giving traditional gifts to children at certain ages, like dollhouses or train sets. Re-imagine these and, when possible, buy local to save energy and support area businesses, suggests Eisenberg.

Cintia Gonzalez, an Australian mom, crafted a dollhouse from an old suitcase, inventively using black chalkboard paint for the exterior, wooden shelves as floors and fast food ketchup cups as lampshades (Tinyurl.com/ UpcycleDollhouse). Another mom transformed a discarded coffee table into a painted train table for her boys.

Upcycle paint chip cards into colorful gift tags, suggests Seo. Plus, use gift wraps that become part of the gift itself, such as placemats swaddling a bottle of wine, fabric to encase quilting supplies or sheet music enveloping concert tickets.

As a general rule, “Give experiences, not gifts,” counsels Eisenberg. “Giving loved ones experiences reduces wrapping paper, ribbon and packaging and is an easy way to be a bit more personal over the holidays. Your teenage niece may love a spa day, complete with hair styling, while your favorite aunt and uncle may be thrilled to attend a local wine tasting.

If you think a young child can tolerate a few less presents in exchange for a pass to an ice show or dance class, go for it.”

“It’s the holiday experience that counts,” counsels Seo. “It’s what makes memories.”

Claire O’Neil is a freelance writer from Kansas City, MO.

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Drink Yourself Healthy Wednesday, December 4 at 7pm Friday, December 6 at 7pm Friday, December 13 at 7pm Saturday, December 14 at 11am Friday, December 20 at 7pm Saturday, December 21 at 11am

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natural awakenings

December 2013

27

healingways

use the robust energy of spring to scatter those ideas abroad.”

‘Tis the Season to Be Wise A Prime Time to Rejuvenate and Birth Creativity

by Lane Vail

F

or California acupuncturist Daniela Freda, counseling patients that grapple with low energy during winter is routine. “They’re often concerned something is wrong, since our society expects us to feel the same way year-round,” says Freda, who maintains a private practice in San Francisco. “But in fact,” she adds, “everything is right.”

According to a study published in Psychiatry Research, only 4 to 6 percent of Americans suffer from seasonal affective disorder (SAD), characterized by a predictable seasonal pattern of major depressive or bipolar disorder. For the vast majority of the population, a slight seasonal variance in mood and behavior is normal, confirms Kathryn Roecklein, Ph.D., a clinical psychologist and prominent SAD researcher at Pennsylvania’s University of Pittsburg.

Practitioners of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), like Freda, view decreased energy in nature’s wintertime as a reflection of the season’s energy. In this philosophy, rising (yang) and falling (yin) energies cycle as the seasons turn. Winter is governed by quiet, slow, introspective and creative yin energy. As winter yields to spring, the bright, fast, expansive and extroverted yang energy gains momentum to peak in summer.

“Nature expresses universal energies in a big way,” says research psychologist and mind-body medicine expert Joseph Cardillo, Ph.D., author of The Five Seasons. Who can ignore a blossoming

28 Wayne County Edition

spring or an abundant autumn? “Those same energetic cycles,” says Cardillo, “are mirrored in the microcosmic human body and human experience.”

Chill Out

Although the December 21 winter solstice marks the shortest day of the year, temperatures in most of the U.S. continue to fall through February. Cardillo advises embracing winter’s chill because it diverts our attention from daily activities so that we pause to consider what’s important.

“The effect is similar to splashing cold water on our face,” he remarks.

As the cold draws animals into hibernation and plants into dormancy, it also beckons us to enjoy extra sleep, notes Freda, as we follow the sun’s path: Earlier to bed; later to rise. She encourages her clients to incorporate restorative activities into daily routines. “Intentionally set aside time to connect with the breath and quiet the mind,” she counsels. Try gentle yoga or t’ai chi, listen to relaxing music, curl up with a cozy book or take nature walks, flush with fresh sensory experiences.

Cardillo explains that slowing down naturally creates space for the contemplative and creative qualities of yin energy to rise. Meditating, visualizing and journaling promote access to one’s inner wisdom. “Winter is a perfect time to examine the myriad ideas you’ve dreamt up and assemble them into a new you,” says Cardillo. “Now you are prepared to

NaturalAwakeningsDetroit.com

Reflect on Water

In TCM, the element of water, symbolizing focus and purity, is closely associated with winter. Highly adaptable, water can be solid, liquid or formless vapor; it can flow over, under, around or through obstacles with ease; and it can be still and contained. Contemplating the power of water in any of its forms can help synchronize one’s consciousness with the season’s gifts.

“When your mind is unstuck and flowing like water, your dreams start becoming real to you, simply because you’re in the flow, the present moment,” observes Cardillo, who also authored Be Like Water. He suggests looking to water for guidance in creating solutions, sharpening focus or moving effortlessly on to the next step.

Find Balance

Freda points out that within the strong yin energy of winter, “There are yang moments, celebratory moments, to keep us going.” An imbalance can occur when the slowness of winter is completely counteracted by too much high-energy socializing, working or rushing through the day.

“An excess of yang during the winter,” counsels Freda, “rather than a glimpse of it, can deplete us,” contributing to stress, fatigue and depression.

Conversely, for those with an already predominantly yin personality (quiet, introverted, low energy) that overindulge in the yin energy of winter, an attempt at restoration and quietude can lead to lethargy and isolation. “I see this clinically,” says Freda.

“Instead of embracing a little extra rest and relaxation, some people become exhausted and lose their motivation altogether.

They become stuck in the yin.”

Cardillo recommends that such individuals engage in mood-brightening outdoor activities to help restore balance.

Roecklein agrees, noting that SAD sufferers undergoing cognitive behavioral therapy (which emphasizes positive thinking and beneficial behaviors) likewise are encouraged to participate in physical and social activities that bring joy and meaning.

Lane Vail is a freelance writer in South Carolina. Connect at WriterLane.com.

natural awakenings

December 2013

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healthykids

Co-sleeping makes breastfeeding easier. Studies

published by the Acta Paediatrica, the American Academy of Pediatrics and the Journal of Developmental & Behavioral Pediatrics confirm a consistent link between co-sleeping and breastfeeding in countries as disparate as Brazil, Britain, Malaysia and Sweden. Breast milk provides immunological benefits, transfers symbiotic gut bacteria and promotes bonding between mother and child. It’s especially nutritious if the mother’s diet is healthy, and breast milk is the only food experts agree the human body is unquestionably designed to consume.

Co-sleeping improves sleep. A mother that can breastfeed without leaving the bed will get more sleep.

Also, more research from the American Academy of Pediatrics shows a lower incidence of sudden infant death syndrome when breastfeeding is practiced.

In the clinical experience of James McKenna, Ph.D., a University of Notre Dame professor and leading anthropologist in the field, “Breastfeeding mothers typically keep their babies away from pillows, positioning their infants on their backs, while placing them below the parents’ shoulders and raising their arms above them.” Plus, the adults “lay on their sides in ways that can prevent accidental overlays.”

Co-sleeping builds parent-child bonds. Research

Sweet Slumber

published by the Sleep Research Society shows that mothers that co-sleep with their babies are more attuned

Co-Sleeping in the Family Bed

by Mark Sisson

E

very young mammal on Earth sleeps in close contact with its mother and other family members. They’ve been co-sleeping for security, warmth, comfort and protection for millions of years of evolution.

Although it is generally frowned upon in the United States, many human cultures, including most in East Asia, the Pacific islands, South America, Africa and much of southern Europe, have a rich tradition of co-sleeping. In At Home: A Short History of Private Life, Bill Bryson relates that until very recently, most domiciles centered around a central room, or hall, where everyone slept together. Even today, adults and children almost always sleep together in the same beds in non-industrialized, traditional societies worldwide.

The modern practice of placing babies in separate rooms at night, often to cry themselves to sleep, appears to be a historical aberration. Co-sleeping, conversely, is the age-old norm because it offers so many benefits to both parents and children.

30 Wayne County Edition

NaturalAwakeningsDetroit.com

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© CARE 2013

to their sleep/wake habits and can respond quicker to their needs. According to the journal Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine, skin-to-skin touch increases the secretion of oxytocin, a bond-building hormone.

Co-sleeping fosters maturation. Studies in the Infant

and Child Development journal show that kids that share a bed or sleep in the same room with their parents grow up to be more self-reliant and socially independent, better behaved, less anxious about intimacy as adults and more likely to be happy.

Parents that are nervous about sharing beds can try room sharing, where the baby sleeps in an adjoining crib or cot; family members will experience many of the same benefits.

Mark Sisson is a former marathon runner and triathlete.

He is the author of the bestselling health and fitness book, The Primal Blueprint, and publisher of the health blog, MarksDailyApple.com.

Safe Co-Sleeping Habits

by Mark Sisson

DON’T:

4 Don’t drink alcohol or take drugs that affect awareness and judgment, especially before bed.

4 Don’t smoke tobacco. The tars and toxins cling to an adult’s body, hair and clothes, exposing the baby to dangerous chemicals that increases the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).

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4 Don’t co-sleep if the parent is sleep-deprived, a heavy sleeper, has sleep apnea or is obese.

4 Don’t allow pets or other children to sleep next to babies.

4 Don’t co-sleep on a sofa, loveseat or reclining chair. The cushions create crevices for infant heads to slip into and the elevation creates a fall risk.

4 Don’t use overly soft mattresses that babies can sink into.

Think firm.

4 Don’t use thick bedding, which can cause rapid overheating or lead to smothering.

4 Don’t co-sleep unless everyone is on board. If a spouse isn’t agreeable, try a room share instead.

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4 Use a firm mattress, a tight-fitting sheet and light bedding.

4 Place the baby on its back to sleep.

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December 2013

31

Coming Next Month

consciouseating

SPECIAL EDITION

Rev Up Healthy Choices in the New Year Local & National Experts Show You How

Peace on Our Plates Mindful Eating for a More Peaceful World

by Judith Fertig

A

s Earth’s population grows to a projected 9 billion people by 2050, can our global community keep eating flesh like we’ve been doing for centuries? No, according to a 2010 report by the United Nations Environment Programme, an international panel of sustainable resource management experts. Examining the food demands of a growing population and associated environmental and sustainability issues, Assessing the Environmental Impacts of Consumption and Production recommends “substantial worldwide diet change away from animal products.”

Making the case for a holistic view, Will Tuttle, Ph.D., suggests in World Peace Diet: Eating for Spiritual Health and Social Harmony that we start to see the connections between our food choices and the health and well-being of ourselves, our families, communities and the world.

Web of Understanding

For For more information about about advertising and and how how you you can can participate, call call

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At the center of the web of life is the food we all share to sustain our bodies. Tuttle insists that we celebrate this and regard each meal as a feast. “Food preparation is the only art that allows us to literally incorporate what we create. It is also the only art that fully involves all five senses,” he says. We honor this wonderful activity most by sharing our cooking efforts

NaturalAwakeningsDetroit.com

with others, blessing the food and eating mindfully.

The problem at the center of life, maintains Tuttle, is that we involve animals in our food chain, an act that “introduces suffering, whether physical, mental or emotional.” This is a truth we try to hide from, what he calls the ”cultural shadow”. “The worst examples include factory farming, but even the best methods ultimately involve killing other animals for food,” he says.

One of Tuttle’s more controversial claims is that the herding culture—raising, dominating, selling, killing and owning animals—sets up a harmful physical, emotional and cultural dynamic, extolling domineering and aggressive behavior. “The herding culture requires male dominance and a mentality that might makes right,” observes Tuttle. “It also sees females as primarily breeders, not beings.” Based on contemporary research in anthropology, sociology and psychopathology, he maintains that the actions required to both dominate animals and eat their meat can lead to more aggressive and violent behavior.

One recent study seems to support his claim. Dr. Neil Barnard, in his book, Foods That Fight Pain, remarks that, “Plant-based diets also help tame testosterone’s activity.” Barnard cites a

photo by Stephen Blancett

Health & Wellness

Massachusetts male aging study of 1,552 men ages 40 to 70, which indicated that men eating more fruits and vegetables than meat were less domineering and aggressive, because the increased sex hormone-binding globulin produced by plants helps keep testosterone in check.

“If we continue the meat-centric way of eating, we’re going to continue to have the problems that come with it,” says Tuttle. “The way forward is plantbased agriculture.”

Tune in to

BoB & RoB Allison’s

Practicing a World Peace Diet The Tuttles shop for fresh, organic and non-GMO (genetically modified organism) foods and favor what they call “blueprint recipes”, that vary from day to day.

Each outlines the makings of a dish and encourages cooks to be intuitive in how they fill in the details.

For a typical breakfast, for example, Tuttle and his wife, Madeleine, will make a green smoothie that includes kale, banana, apple, grapes, ground flax, chia seeds, cinnamon and fresh ginger. “It’s a flexible drink,” says Tuttle. “We will swap out whatever organic fruits and vegetables we have so that we vary the flavor from time to time.” For example, they might use parsley, spinach, or chard leaves in place of kale, or citrus in place of grapes.

Lunch is usually a wrap-type sandwich, sometimes using fresh leaf lettuce or a whole-wheat tortilla. One recent example of such a wrap combined tomatoes, peppers, sprouts, walnuts, tempeh and avocado. A dinnertime blueprint recipe involves a base of cooked rice, quinoa, pasta, mashed potatoes or polenta, topped with a vegetable ragout, cooked or raw.

“You could live the rest of your life mixing and matching these ingredients and never have the same meal twice,” notes Tuttle. “We have been doing it for 30 years. If we all choose to eat like this, the world could feed everybody on a fraction of the land now consumed by agriculture.”

Learn more at WorldPeaceDiet.org/articles.htm.

Judith Fertig blogs at AlfrescoFood AndLifestyle.blogspot.com from Overland Park, KS.

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Peace Blueprint Recipes When sitting down to eat, look at what’s been created to nourish all those gathered. Enjoy the colors, smells, tastes and love that blesses the food. May the principle of Oneness govern all beings.

Green Smoothie

To start the day, use a high-powered Vitamix-type blender to reduce whole fruits and vegetables to a smooth juice.

If using a regular blender, cut the fruits and vegetables into small pieces and strain the purée after blending.

Yields two servings 1 banana, sliced 1 large apple, peeled, cored and chopped ½ cup seedless green grapes 1 cup chopped kale leaves 1 cup baby spinach leaves 1 Tbsp grated fresh ginger 1 Tbsp ground flax seeds ¼ cup ground chia seeds ¼ tsp ground cinnamon ¼ tsp ground cloves 1 cup purified water

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Place all ingredients in the blender and blend until smooth. Strain, if necessary, to remove larger pieces; pour into two glasses and serve.

Whole Wheat and Vegetable Wrap

For lunch, a simple wrap can provide a daily change-up mixing in different fresh ingredients plus a plant-based flavoring like dried herbs, spices or garlic stirred into the Vegenaise or homemade eggless mayonnaise.

Yields two servings 2 10-inch whole-wheat tortillas 2 Tbsp Vegenaise 1 tsp prepared horseradish, or to taste 1 cup fresh lettuce, torn into pieces ½ cup sprouts ½ cup chopped fresh tomatoes ½ cup shredded fresh carrots ½ cup diced fresh cucumber 1 ripe avocado, peeled, pitted and sliced ¼ cup toasted walnuts

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Toast walnuts by placing them on a baking sheet in a 350-degree oven for 15 minutes. Cool, and then chop.

Place the tortillas on a flat surface.

In a small bowl, mix the Vegenaise and horseradish together. Spread the mixture on the tortillas. Top each tortilla with half the lettuce, sprouts, tomatoes, carrots, cucumber, avocado and walnuts. Roll each tortilla into a wrap and serve.

Raw Vegetable Ragout with Brown Rice Start dinner with a base of cooked rice, potatoes, quinoa or polenta and top it with a vegetable medley.

Yields two servings Rice: 1 cup brown rice 2¼ cups water Raw Vegetable Ragout: 1 cup red bell pepper, cut into strips ½ cup finely chopped celery ½ cup pitted Kalamata olives, chopped ¼ cup finely chopped Italian parsley ¼ cup toasted, chopped walnuts 3 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil 1 garlic clove, minced 1 Tbsp lemon juice 1 tsp coarse kosher or sea salt

Bring the water to a boil in a medium saucepan over high heat. Stir in the rice, reduce the heat and simmer covered until tender, about 40 minutes.

While the rice is cooking, combine the red bell pepper, celery, Kalamata olives, Italian parsley and walnuts in a medium-sized bowl. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, garlic, lemon juice and salt. Pour the dressing over the vegetables, stir until well blended, and then let rest until the rice is done.

To serve, spoon the cooked rice onto each plate and top with the raw vegetable ragout.

Source: Adapted from Intuitive Cooking, by Madeleine Tuttle (WorldPeaceDiet.org).

wisewords

Humanity’s Eternal Quest Eckhart Tolle on the Kingdom of Heaven Within

by Eric Nelson more effective than that? “Jesus said, ‘The kingdom of heaven is within you,’” observes Tolle, implying that this health-inducing understanding may be a lot closer than we thought. “I think if he lived nowadays, instead of ‘kingdom’, he would have said, ‘dimension’. And ‘heaven’ refers to a sense of vastness or spaciousness. So if we retranslate the words of Jesus into modern terms, [it would be] ‘the dimension of spaciousness is within you.’”

“And then Jesus said—when they asked him, ‘Where is the kingdom of heaven and when is it going to come?’— he said, ‘The kingdom of heaven does not come with signs to be perceived.

You cannot say, ah, it’s over there or look, it’s over there, for I tell you the kingdom of heaven is within you.’”

How comforting it is to be reminded that the proverbial “kingdom of heaven” we’ve been hearing about for at least two millennia—this “dimension of spaciousness”, or what might be characterized as the understanding of our true spiritual identity—is “within you.” It’s within us all, here and now. All that remains is the willingness—and the humility—to put this insight into practice. photo by David Ellingsen

T

o listen to Eckhart Tolle is to be reminded that anything is possible—for anyone.

We’re not talking about living a life of leisure, filled with expensive cars, beach homes and extravagant vacations, but an experience brimming with the kind of spiritual insights that make this life not only worth living, but decidedly more fulfilling.

The problem is that when people hear the words “spiritual insight”, there’s often an assumption that it’s about something too ethereal to be practical or too elusive to be achieved in this lifetime.

This is exactly the point that Tolle, one of the world’s most well-known spiritual teachers and authors, rebuffed during a talk earlier this year at California’s Stanford University.

“Some people awaken spiritually without ever coming into contact with any meditation technique or any spiritual teaching,” he said. “They may awaken simply because they can’t stand the suffering anymore.”

He went on to cite examples of those that have either been told they have a short time to live or have been given an exceptionally long prison sentence. In both cases, any thought of a future has been effectively dashed, forcing these individuals into what Tolle describes as an intense awareness that there is only the present moment, with no more future to escape into mentally. The result is a lot less suffering.

“That is the real spiritual awakening, when something emerges from within you that is deeper than who you thought you were,” says Tolle. “So, the person is still there, but one could almost say that something more powerful shines through the person.”

The good news, according to Tolle, is that in order to experience this awakening, “You don’t have to wait for the diagnosis by the doctor or to be put in prison… nor do you have to do 30,000 hours of meditation or live in an ashram for 20 years. Once you get a glimpse of it, you can invite it into your daily life.”

For a growing number of people, it’s this understanding of the always present “spiritual you” shining through that has led to significant improvements in their lives, not the least of which is better health. This would seem to indicate that these kinds of spiritual insights aren’t the least bit ethereal or elusive, but decidedly practical.

“Spirituality and religion belong in the healing paradigm,” writes Airdre Grant, Ph.D., of Australia’s Southern Cross University, in a study published in the Journal of the Australian Traditional-Medicine Society. “They are determinants of health and they are factors in recovery, well-being and longevity.”

So where do these insights come from? Is it simply a matter of wishful thinking? Or is it perhaps something more reliable,

Eric Nelson is a Christian Science healing practitioner from Los Altos, CA, whose articles on the link between spiritual consciousness and health appear regularly in national online publications. Connect at norcalcs.org.

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December 2013

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Nurture Your Business

fitbody

Too Much Togetherness?

Exercise Helps Keep Family Holidays Merry

by Sarah Todd

Partner with us to help grow your business Editorial + Ad + Events = Results!

Call us @ 313-221-9674 Contact us for more information.

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36 Wayne County Edition

G

iven family hopes and often unrealistic expectations that everything will go perfectly, holiday gatherings can sometimes be a recipe for untoward stress. One of the best ways to keep potential ’tis-the-season tensions under control is to carve out some time for exercise, a move supported by research findings at Princeton University. Other experts suggest that from practicing a favorite Eastern modality to taking a natural spin around the neighborhood, we all have instant access to foolproof tactics for staying relaxed, healthy and more even-keeled among kin this winter.

To mend nerves frayed by debates at the dinner table, slip into a nearby bedroom for a calming yoga workout. Yoga’s emphasis on controlled breathing makes it ideal for treating family dynamics straight out of Silver Linings Playbook. The Mayo Clinic reports that deep breathing increases the flow of oxygen into the bloodstream, easing headaches, muscular tension and chest tightness.

Yogic breathing patterns also are shown to lower resting heart rates, which helps practitioners stay composed in the face of any intra-family disagreements or other stressors.

For a quick, relaxing yoga routine, begin with a few breathing exercises before moving into a sun salutation—a sequence of full-body poses,

NaturalAwakeningsDetroit.com

or asanas, performed in a smooth, continuous flow. Begin standing, palms pressed together in the tadasana, or

mountain, pose. Then move through a series of motions that sweep the arms over the head, expanding the chest, before dipping into downward dog and plank poses, which help increase flexibility and strength. End lying down in the shavasana, or resting, pose with eyes closed and let the quiet settle in.

Resistance-training exercises are another option. Release pent up tension by pushing against a wall. Stand about three feet away, lean in and push. Position feet at an angle so that a straight body line forms the hypotenuse of a triangle with the wall and floor. This activity drains the limbs of tightness and stretches out hamstrings and calf muscles, enabling us to walk away feeling light and limber.

While some people can happily greet and maintain cheerfulness throughout holiday family times, others may feel a bit anxious. For a sure-fire endorphin boost, try a cardiovascular workout like running, which German researchers published in Cerebral Cortex confirm produces a flood of euphoria on cue. A quick jog or spirited walk outside helps elevate mood while strengthening the immune system, helping to keep feelings of melancholy at bay.

Before heading for the door, those stretching their legs outside in colder climates need to dress as if it’s 20 degrees warmer than the thermometer reads. This helps prevent the body from overheating, especially after being sedentary for an extended period. To get the blood flowing beforehand, do some simple stretching or take a few trips up and down the stairs.

Exercisers that prefer to stay sheltered from wintry weather entirely

While some people can happily greet and maintain cheerfulness throughout holiday family times, others may feel a bit anxious. have a solid alternative; an indoor cardiovascular workout can mimic jogging’s mood-lifting effects. Try alternating 12 reps of jumping jacks, lunges, squats and crunches to get the heart pumping. Consider a second series for a higher intensity workout. All of it will

give muscles that often go slack during holiday loafing a chance to flex.

Because these moves don’t require any equipment, such electives are as portable as a travel hair dryer during holiday visits anywhere.

After one or more of these solo workouts, many revelers may be ready to up the ante on family togetherness.

For a healthy dose of quality time, round up the gang and enlist them in a high-energy outdoor activity like hiking, sledding or even Ultimate Frisbee.

Participating in friendly family competition is healthy fun and gives everyone something else to talk about later.

Sarah Todd is a freelance writer in Brooklyn, NY. Connect at SarahToddInk.com.

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December 2013

37

calendarofevents All Calendar events must be received by the 15th of the month prior to publication, and adhere to our guidelines.

Please visit HealthyLivingDetroit.com for guidelines and to submit entries.

SUN, DEC 01, 2013 Holiday Tea Tasting – 2-3pm & 4-5pm.

Select from two seatings while space permits.

Experience four seasonal teas perfectly paired with delectable foods. $15. RSVP absolutely required. Socra Tea & Artist Gallery, 71 Garfield, Ste 50, Detroit. SocraTeaDetroit.com, 313-8337100.

Selfishness makes Christmas a burden, love makes it a delight.

The Science of Rock ‘n’ Roll – 10am-6pm.

(12/1–12/31) Interactive galleries with laser show and backstage pass. $23.95. Michigan Science Center, 5020 John R St, Detroit. MI-SCI. org, 313-577-8400.

Donation Yoga – 11:30am-12:30pm. All levels in a serene studio with natural light in a welcoming and non-judgmental space. Be NiceYoga Studio, 4100 Woodward Ave, Detroit.

BeNiceYoga.com/events, 313-544-9787.

TUES, DEC 03, 2013 Balancing Energy with Essential Oils – 7-8:15pm. This workshop explores the use of essential oils with focus on the chakras.

Free. Pre-register. Canton Chiropractic, 6231 N Canton Center Rd, Ste 109, Canton.

CantonCenterChiropractic.com, 734-455-6767.

You Won’t Believe It’s Raw – 7-8:30pm. Learn to make raw, healthy and delicious holiday treats including apple pie and cashew cheesecake with

Carolyn Simon of Red Pepper Deli. Free. RSVP at circulation desk. Caroline Kennedy Library, 24590 George St, Dearborn Heights. Dhcl.

MichLibrary.org, 313-791-3800.

Back and Core Support Yoga Class – 10-11am and 5-6pm. This class explores stretching, and strengthening the core of the body muscles and is for all levels. $10. The Yoga and Wellness Collective, 21925 Garrison, Dearborn.

YogaAndWellnessCollective.weebly.com, 313617-9535.

THUR, DEC 05, 2013 Community Evening – 6-8pm. Complimentary 10 minute chair massage or reflexology (space is limited-first come, first served), check out our special sales and shop The Mind Body Spirit Gift Shop, too. Valade Healing Arts Center, 19229 Mack Ave, Ste 30, Grosse Pointe Woods.

313-647-3320

FRI. DEC 06, 2013

savethedate Putting the Happy Back into the Holidays – 7:30-9pm. Learn practical tools for dealing with seasonal stress, which include meditations to journaling exercises from wellness blogger and yoga instructor Katie Dalebout. Launch into wellness before the new year even begins! $20. Red Lotus Yoga, 1900 S Livernois Rd, Rochester Hills. RedLotusYoga.com, 248-601-9642

SAT, DEC 07, 2013 41st Noel Night – 5-10pm. Cultural Centerwide holiday “open house” with activities, entertainment, shopping and more. Free.

Midtown Detroit Inc, Detroit. MidtownDetroit. org, 313-420-6000.

Essential Oils- 1-2pm. Give the gift of health!

Learn about essential oils from Young Living.

Free. Total Health Foods, 2938 Biddle Ave, Wyandotte. THFDownriver.com, 734-246-1208.

SUN, DEC 08, 2013 Holiday Breath – 10:30am-12pm. Unique holiday breathe to access the joy and spirit of this season of love, giving, gratitude and connection.

Open your heart, feel the oneness and experience the gifts. $25. Body Works Healing Center, 819 Mill St, Plymouth. 734-416-5200.

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NaturalAwakeningsDetroit.com

Yoga Foundations Workshop – 1-3:30pm. Explore the foundations of yoga posture, yoga philosophy and meditation with Hannah Kanter. All levels, $25. Yoga Shala & Wellness Ctr, 25411 W Warren, Dearborn Heights. YogaShalaAndWellnessCenter. com, 313-278-4308.

MON, DEC 09, 2013 Posture Workshop – 6-7pm. Learn how posture affects your health & longevity and get advice on correct sitting, bending, & lifting plus the ergonomics of your work station. Call to register, free. Integrated Health Chiropractic Center, 1075 Ann Arbor Rd, Plymouth. IHChiro.com, 734-454-5600.

Herbal Medicine – 7-9pm. This class will focus on using whole foods and herbs for your family and home. Zyto Compass Nutritional Assessment demo. $20. Call to register. Alice Goodall RN, BSB, 23055 Masonic Blvd, St Clair Shores.

586-285-8886.

Cold and Flu Workshop – 7-8pm. Learn what you can do to boost your immune system all winter to prevent colds and the flu with a more natural approach. Free, call to register. Canton Center Chiropractic, 6231 N Canton Center Rd, Ste 109, Canton. CantonCenterChiropractic.com, 734-455-6767.

Stress and Adaptogens – 6-7:30pm. Come learn about stress and adaptogens with Kathy Peltier. $5. Total Health Foods, 2938 Biddle Ave, Wyandotte. THFDownriver.com, 734-246-1208.

TUES, DEC 10, 2013 Make the Holidays Special with Essential Oils – 7-8:15pm. Learn ways to make your home germ free and your family healthy using essential oils. Great for gift giving too. Free, call to register. Canton Center Chiropractic, 6231 N Canton Center Rd, Ste 109, Canton.

CantonCenterChiropractic.com, 734-455-6767.

Youngevity Meeting – 7-8pm. Come learn about Youngevity Minerals and see what the hype is all about. Free. Total Health Foods, 2938 Biddle Ave, Wyandotte. THFDownriver.com, 734-246-1208.

WED, DEC 11, 2013 Keys to Holiday Health – 7pm. Learn how to take an active role in achieving better health and well being with diet and lifestyle changes you can do at home with Carol Ann Fischer, DC, ND. Free. Call for reservations. TLC Holistic Wellness, 31580 Schoolcraft Rd, Livonia. 734756-6904

THUR, DEC 12, 2013 Holistic Networking Group Meeting – 6-8pm.

Dec speaker - Karla K. Mitchell, ND, Naturopath & Energy Healer, Owner of Exhalation Wellness, her topic will be ‘Beginning in the Matrix - a front line approach to whole person natural health. Meetings offer a wonderful opportunity to meet others interested in healthy living, and for holistic practictioners to connect with one another and those interested in learning more about your products & services. Each mtg begins w/brief intros around the room, presentation by the spkr for ½ hr, Q & A and then networking.

Free, call 586-943-5785 to RSVP. St Paul of the Cross Passionist Retreat & Conference Center, 23333 Schoolcraft Rd, Detroit. (located on the I-96 service drive just E of Telegraph) Rehab Roll Workshop – 6pm. Learn how to improve balance, stability & breathing techniques plus tone & stretch your body and increase flexibility, overall strength, & range of motion. Call to register, free. Integrated Health Chiropractic Center, 1075 Ann Arbor Rd, Plymouth. IHChiro.com, 734-454-5600.

Detox Diets – 6-7pm. This seminar explains what a detox diet is, how to do it safely and what the benefits are. Free. Henry Ford Self-health Center, 23400 Allen Rd, Woodhaven. HenryFord SelfHealth.com, 734-676-3813.

Freedom From Migraines – 6:30-7:30pm.

Seminar for migraine sufferers about helping to eliminate migraines without drugs or surgery.

Free. Dr. William Civello, 23975 Novi Rd, Ste A-101, Novi. DrCivello.com, 734-525-9588.

Wheat Woes & Your Waistline – 7-8:30pm.

Modern hybrid wheat could be affecting your weight, mood, and health. If you believe you have Celiac Disease or are gluten intolerant, learn what to do about it. Free. RSVP. Karl Wellness Center & Chiropractic Clinic PC, 30925 Ann Arbor Trail, Westland. KarlWellnessCenter.com, 734-425-8220.

FRI, DEC 13, 2013 Little Shoppe Market – 10am-7pm. Crafters, artisans and vendors join retail shops for a unique & convenient shopping opportunity.

Free. Northville Square Mall, 133 W Main St, Northville. LittleShoppeEvents.com, 734-6607967.

Candlelight Stroll – 5-7:30pm. (12/13-12/14, 12/20-12/21, 12/27-12/28) Glowing candles and twinkling lights are the highlights of this delightful evening stroll. Hear stories of the

Ford family holiday traditions at the Estate while enjoying music and holiday trimmings. $15. Edsel & Eleanor Ford House, 1100 Lake Shore Rd, Grosse Pointe Shores. FordHouse. org, 313-884-4222.

SAT, DEC 14, 2013 Country Christmas Bake Sale and Secret Santa Shoppe – 1-7pm. (12/14-12/15). Tour the Victorian style home decorated for the holidays with Basil’s Buddies. Bake sale and gift baskets for sale to help support the animals. Thumbprint artist on Sunday. Trenton Cultural Center, 2427 West Rd, Trenton. BasilsBuddies.org. 734-9261098.

Healthy Holidays – 10:15am-1pm. Learn to show love with meaningful gifts, healthy holiday food tips plus learn the 5 Love Languages.

Craft opportunities available and also purchase pre-made gifts. Free Seminars/donations accepted. Ingredients/supplies $5. LifeCare Christian Center, 33445 Warren Rd, Westland.

LifeCareChristianCenter.org, 734-629-3551.

Nia Potluck Holiday Jam – 12:30-3pm. Join Nia teachers dancing in celebration and community for the holiday season. Nia is a movement form based on creating a loving relationship with your body, allowing your body to move in it’s own way while experiencing body, mind, spirit and emotions. Love Offering. Bring a dish to pass.

Renaissance Unity, 11200 E Eleven Mile Rd, Warren. 313-899-0170.

SUN, DEC 15, 2013 Intro to Essential Oils -7:30-8:30pm. Learn how essential oils can enhance your life, family, home and even your pets. $5. World of Pole Fitness & Dance, 32669 Warren, Ste 6, Garden City.

WorldOfPole.com, 734-306-0909.

MON, DEC 16, 2013 Outstretched in Worship – 6:10-7:20pm.

Quiet your soul, stretch your body, worship our God. LifeCare, 33445 Warren Rd, Westland.

LifeCareChristianCenter.org, 734-629-3551.

TUES, DEC 17, 2013 Meditation Workshop – 7:15-8pm. Breath work and a quiet environment to take a break from daily activities with this evening of meditation and also learn techniques to use at home. Free.

Call to register. Canto Center Chiropractic Clinic,6231 N Canton Center Rd, Ste 109, Canton. CantonCenterChiropractic.com, 734455-6767.

natural awakenings

December 2013

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calendarofevents WED, DEC 18, 2013

THUR, DEC 19, 2013

Eat Your Way Thin for the Holidays– 7pm. You can have the body you want and eat too! Take a natural approach to a healthier, new you. Learn about sugar substitutes vs real sugar, good and bad oils and more with Dr Carol Ann Fischer, DC, ND. Free. Call to RSVP. Civic Center Library, 32777 Five Mile Rd, Livonia. 734-756-6904.

Mental Fitness Challenge – 6:30-7:30pm. Learn success thinking for every area of your life and discover that you can start living the life you’ve always wanted with instructor Alice Goodall RN, BSN. Also, Biofeedback Test available. Free. Call to register, and get location info. 586-646-0066.

Connecting with Your Spirit Guides – 7-8pm.

Learn more about your Spirit Guides who are assigned to assist you in this lifetime, who they are and how you can connect with them to receive guidance to express and experience your highest path and purpose. Free, registration required.

Canton Center Chiropractic, 6231 N Canton Ctr Rd Ste 109, Canton. CreateByVibration.com, 734-716-2881.

Detroit Riverfront Bards- A Toastmasters Club – 7pm. Gain skills and confidence to effectively express yourself in any situation. Contact Pat Euseary. 100 Riverfront Dr, Tower 100 Community Rm, Detroit. DetroitRiverFrontBards.

ToastMastersClub.org.

Open Mic Poetry Night – 8-10pm. Join us at the Juice Bar! All are welcome. Total Health Foods, 2938 Biddle Ave, Wyandotte. THFDownriver. com, 734-246-1208.

SAT, DEC 21, 2013 Ypsilanti Winter Farmers Market – All Michigan grown or made products, available indoors. Growing Hope, 503 Oak St, Ypsilanti.

GrowingHope.net, 734-786-8401.

SUN, DEC 22, 2013 Homebirth Circle – 12pm. Support and information for women and families considering, planning or have homebirthed. Enjoy a community of liked minded families. Free. Yoga Shala and Wellness Center, 25411 W. Warren, Dearborn Heights.YogaShalaAndWellnessCenter.com, 313-278-4308

MON, DEC 23, 2013 Posture Workshop – 12-1pm. Learn how posture affects your health & longevity and get advice on correct sitting, bending, & lifting plus the ergonomics of your work station. Call to register, free. Integrated Health Chiropractic Center, 1075 Ann Arbor Rd, Plymouth. IHChiro.com, 734-454-5600.

MON, DEC 30, 2013 Rehab Roll Workshop – 6pm. Learn how to improve balance, stability & breathing techniques plus tone & stretch your body and increase flexibility, overall strength, & range of motion. Call to register, free. Integrated Health Chiropractic Center, 1075 Ann Arbor Rd, Plymouth. IHChiro.com, 734-454-5600.

TUES, DEC 31, 2013 New Year’s Eve Meditation – 1-2pm. Start the New Year with renewed sense of peace with Mindfulness Metta Meditation. The group comes together in a sustained mediation based on inner love, compassion, kindness, acceptance, and forgiveness. $20. BodyWorks Healing Center, 819 Mill St, Plymouth. 744-416-5200.

40 Wayne County Edition

NaturalAwakeningsDetroit.com

A life spent making mistakes is not only more honorable, but more useful than a life spent doing nothing. ~George Bernard Shaw

savethedate New Year’s Eve Celebration - 4pm (over night) – 1/1/14 -12pm. If you’re looking for an alternative way to ring in the New Year, join us for gentle yoga @ 4pm, plus complimentary chair massage, will help to relax you for a candlelight dinner @ 5:30, group discussion, personal reflection, fellowship and a Pre-midnight nonalcoholic social with sparkling fruit juices and snacks. Enjoy relaxing overnight accommodations prior to starting the New Year celebrating mass and concluding the day by enjoying a terrific brunch prior to departure.

Open to all men, women, couples and singles. $80/individual; $120/couple, call to register – complimentary gentle yoga class and chair massage are optional. St. Paul of the Cross Retreat & Conference Center, 23333 Schoolcraft (I-96 @ Telegraph), Detroit. Passionist.org/stpauls, 313286-2802.

WED, JAN 1, 2014

ongoingcalendar All Calendar events must be received by the 15th of the month prior to publication, and adhere to our guidelines.

Visit NaturalAwakeningsDetroit.com for calendar guidelines and to submit ongoing events.

Zumba – 9-10am. With Kym $10 SanKofa Life Learning & Wellness Center, 18734 Woodward Ave, Detroit. 313-366-5250 SanKofaLife.net Super Shot Sundays - 11am-7pm. Want to try a healthy shot? 99 cent Goji Berry shots 12/1, 15, & 29. $2 Wheatgrass shots 12/8 & 22. . Total Health Foods, 2938 Biddle Ave, Wyandotte.

THFDownriver.com, 734-246-1208.

Yoga Class - 11:30am-12:30pm. Guided poses to warm the body. Gentle postures with optimal alignment. All levels, donation based(not Free) BE NICE Yoga Studio, 4100 Woodward Ave, Detroit. BeNiceYoga.com.

Yin (restorative) Yoga – 7-8pm. $14 walk in.

Livonia Yoga Ctr, 19219 Merriman Rd, Livonia.

LivoniaYogaCenter.com, 248-449-9642.

Gentle Basic Yoga – 9:30-10:30am. Have you been wanting to try a yoga class? David Demo teaches this wonderful class that will help get your week off to a great start – all levels welcome.

New students – first week free, then $5 per class afterwards. Strongheart Yoga, 8373 Old 13 Mile Rd, Warren. StrongHeartYoga.com Zumba Fitness - 6-7pm. Exhilarating, effective, easy-to-follow, Latin-inspired, calorie-burning dance fitness-party™. $7 drop in. Vibe Fit, Allen Park Community Center, Allen Park. VibeFitme. com.

Lunch Yoga – 12-1pm. Donation. Yoga 4 Peace, 13550 Dix-Toledo Rd, Southgate. info@y4peace. org 734-282-9642.

SWCRC Connections Weekly Networking Group – 8am. Free to chamber members, one business per industry. Non-members can visit two meetings free. WCCC-Downriver Campus, 21000 Northline Rd – Conference Room 11, Taylor. Rick Williams, 734-626-7778.

Foot Detox Days - 9am-8pm. In Dec, we will offer foot detoxing every Tues & Thurs, call to make an appt with Alicia. Walk-ins also welcome. $25 (Hrs for 12/24 9am-6pm; 12/31 9am-5pm.

Total Health Foods, 2938 Biddle Ave, Wyandotte.

THFDownriver.com, 734-246-1208.

Gentle Yoga – 9-10:15am. All levels. $14.

TaylorYoga, 8935 Telegraph Rd, Taylor.

TaylorYoga.com, 313-292-9642.

Yoga - 10:15-11:15am. Come enjoy yoga in a nurturing environment! $10 walk-in rate. St John Neumann, 44800 Warren Rd, Canton.

StJohnNeumann.us, 734-455-5910.

Transformational Tuesdays – 12-2pm. $5 SanKofa Life Center, 18734 Woodward Ave, Detroit. SankofaLife.org, 313-366-5250.

Classic Nia – 5:30-6:30pm. All levels. $13.

Body and Mind Fitness, 239 E Nine Mile Rd, 1 blk E of Woodward, Ferndale. NiaBethSchedule.

BlogSpot.com Beginners Pilates – 6pm. Guardian Martial Arts & Fitness, 30942 Ford Rd, Garden City.

GuardianMartialArts.com, 734-266-0565.

Qi Gong and Yoga for Real Bodies and Yoga Nidra – 6-7:15pm. Qi Gong is ancient Chinese exercise. No exp needed, provides stress relief and focus. Donation. Yoga 4 Peace, 13550 Dix-Toledo Rd, Southgate. Y4Peace.org, 734282-9642.

Transformational Tuesdays – 7-9pm. $5 SanKofa Life Center, 18734 Woodward Ave, Detroit. SankofaLife.org, 313-366-5250.

Opening the Doors of Change 8pm. Prepare to be informed, uplifted and inspired as you discover how to open the doors to positive change in your life. Each wk Chris Lee brings you the hottest authors, experts and thought leaders - dynamic people who positively impact the planet. Visit Blogtalkradio.com/chrisleelifestyle to listen online.

SWCRC Connections Weekly Networking Group – 8am. 2nd and 4th Wed. Free to chamber members, one business per industry.

Non-members can visit 2 meetings free. WCCCDownriver Campus, 21000 Northline Rd – Conf Rm 8, Taylor. Contact Mark Tremper 313-4600438.

Mom & Baby Yoga – 10:30-11:30am. Bond w/ your baby, release tension, strengthen your body, focus the mind and increase flexibility. Enjoy togetherness with your baby during this fun and worthwhile activity; meet other moms and babies too. Northville Yoga Center, 200 S Main St Unit B, Northville. NorthvilleYogaCenter.com, 248-449-9642.

Tai Chi – 6-7pm. With Bobby Jean Calhoun $5.

SanKofa Life Center, 18734 Woodward Ave, Detroit. SankofaLife.org, 313-366-5250.

Canton Communicators Club – 6:30pm. Learn to become a better communicator and improve public speaking abilities! Canton Coney Island, 8533 Lilly Rd, Canton. Canton.FreeToastHost. com, 734-994-0569.

Community Share Dinner & Activities – 6:30-8pm. Join us for a meal, followed by contemporary worship, Bible study, classes, music, cards, and crafts-sign up for dinner each wk, suggested cost $6 per adult, $4 for 4-14, 3 and under free. “pay-what-you-can”. Allen Park Presbyterian Church, 7101 Park Ave, Allen Park.

AllenParkChurch.org, 313-383-0100.

SWCRC Connections Weekly Networking Group – 8am. Free to chamber members, one business per industry. Non-members can visit two mtgs free. Best Western/Greenfield Inn “The Pink Palace” Packard Room, 3000 Enterprise Dr, Allen Park. Annette Prevaux 313-389-3937.

Foot Detox Days - 9am-8pm. In Dec, we will offer foot detoxing every Tues & Thurs, call to make an appt with Alicia. Walk-ins also welcome. $25 Total Health Foods, 2938 Biddle Ave, Wyandotte. THFDownriver.com, 734-246-1208.

Chakra Yoga – 11am-12pm. Vinyasa class led

by Courtney Conover, designed to help balance chakras, all levels $14. Taylor Yoga, 8935 Telegraph Rd, Taylor. TaylorYoga.com Circle of Light – 2-7pm. (Light Energy) with Sukyo Mahikari - Love Offering. SanKofa Life Center, 18734 Woodward Ave, Detroit.

SankofaLife.org, 313-366-5250.

Open Mic – 7-10pm. For musicians, poets, comedians, etc. Sign up starts at 6:30pm. Free.

Always Brewing Detroit, 19180 Grand River, Detroit. AlwaysBrewingDetroit.com. 313-8791102.

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Drum Circle – 7-9pm. Includes instructions with Baba Uche’, $5. SanKofa Life Center, 18734 Woodward Ave, Detroit. SankofaLife.org, 313-366-5250.

Community Yoga - 7-8pm. All-levels, dedicated Christian Yoga Studio. Free/Donation. Living Waters Yoga, 63 Kercheval, Ste 20, Grosse Pte Farms. LivingWatersYoga.com, 313-884-4465.

Slow Flow/Yin Fusion – 7:15pm. Slow down and stretch out your body in order to leave your worries behind, all levels, $12 walk ins. Yoga Shala Wellness, 25411 W Warren Ste D, Dearborn Heights. YogaShalaWellnessCenter.com, 313520-3377.

Cardio Kickboxing – 7:45-8:45pm. Ages 13 and up. $5. Michigan Karate Academy, 23753 Van Born Rd, Taylor. 313-292-9214.

Vinyasa Yoga - 9-10:15am. Flowing sequence, all levels. $14. Taylor Yoga, 8935 Telegraph Rd, Taylor. TaylorYoga.com, 313-292-9642.

Yin Yoga - 11:45am-12:30pm. All levels, yin is a unique quality of challenge and surrender that works to stretch muscles and connective tissues $15. BE NICE Yoga Studio, 4100 Woodward Ave, Detroit. BeNiceYoga.com, 313-544-9787.

Hustle Dance Classes – 6:30-7:30pm. With Fast Freddy, $5. SanKofa Life Center, 18734 Woodward Ave, Detroit. SankofaLife.org, 313366-5250.

Open Gymnastics Fridays – 7-9pm. All levels welcome, drop in fee $10. Sokol Detroit Gymnastics, 23600 W Warren Ave, Dearborn Hghts. SokolDetroitGymnastics@gmail.com, 313-268-7232.

Paws for Reading -10am-5pm. Beginning readers thru 5th grade (w/parent) are invited to sign up at the Children’s Desk and choose to share a story with either Molly, a wonderful Old English Sheepdog, or Billy Flynn, an amazing black Labrador. 20 min sessions are the perfect opportunity to practice and become a better reader in a fun, non-competitive atmosphere. Parents or guardians must register in person and sign a permission slip stating that the child participating in the program has no known allergies. All dogs are insured through the organization. Free.

Redford Township Library, 25320 W 6 Mile Rd, Redford Twp. RedfordLibrary.org, 313531-5960.

Detroit Eastern Market – 5am-5pm. Open year-round. Now that most of the local farmers markets have closed for the season, it’s great time to check out Eastern Market. EBT accepted.

2934 Russell St, bet Mack & Gratiot, Detroit.

DetroitEasternMarket.com Ypsilanti Winter Farmers Market - 10am-2pm.

Saturdays in Nov & Dec, shop a wide variety of fresh produce, breads and baked goods, cheese, meats, soaps, laundry detergent, and other homemade crafts and jewelry - all grown or made in Michigan. SNAP/EBT (Bridge Card) + credit/ debit cards. Adams STEM Academy, 503 Oak St, Ypsilanti. GrowingHope.net, 734-786-8401.

Prenatal Yoga – 11am. $14. Northville Yoga 200 S Main St Unit B, Northville.

NorthvilleYogaCenter.com, 248-449-9642.

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for a store nearest you, call (888) 48-BETTER or visit

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NaturalAwakeningsDetroit.com

Ann Arbor • Belleville • Bloomfield Hills Dearborn • Downriver Lansing (Frandor • West Saginaw) Grosse Pointe Woods • Livonia Novi • Plymouth • Southfield • Sterling Heights

communityresourceguide

NATURAL CONCEPTS HEALTH COUNSELING

Want to reach readers who are health and wellness focused?

Learn how to list your services in the Community Resource Guide.

Call us at 313-221-9674

ACUPUNCTURE DETROIT COMMUNITY ACUPUNCTURE 4100 Woodward Ave., Detroit 313-831-3222 www.detroitcommunityacupuncture.com In pain? Stressed out? Try acupuncture!

We offer comfortable, individualized treatments in a cozy community setting. $15 - $35 sliding scale. Check our website for current specials, “What to Expect” for new patients, and more!

BRAIN OPTIMIZATION MENTAL WELLNESS A PERFECT BALANCED MIND

improve or maintain your health contact the doctors at Integrative Health Chiropractic Center.

CANTON CENTER CHIROPRACTIC CLINIC Serving the community for 26 years 6231 N Canton Center Rd #109, Canton, MI 48187 734-455-6767 www.cantoncenterchiropractic.com We offer Chiropractic and nutritional services to help you achieve optimal wellness.

Additional services include Massage, Reflexolgy, Reiki, Kinesio-Taping and educational workshops. Let Dr. Robert Potter, Jr. and Associates be “Your Natural Health Care Providers”.

Holistic, non-invasive brain optimization technology, identifying where brainwave patterns are not functioning at optimal levels.

Specializing in : anxiety, memory/focus problems, sleep issues, PTSD, ADD/ ADHD, Brain injury.

LENS Neurofeedback, CognitiveBehavioral Therapy, Family/ Marital Therapy, resources for Integrative/Holistic Medical services, including targeted supplements/ alternatives to medication. Services for adults, adolescents, and children to address depression, anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, ADD/ADHD, Asperger’s Disorder and more. Additional availability in West Bloomfield.

CHIROPRACTIC WELLNESS

EDUCATION

Wellness and holistic pain management doctor with 40 combined yrs in practice Dr Elizabeth Sisk DC has focused her attention on total body function and holistic pain managment in respect to the affect they play on health and wellness. Using Chiropractic care, laser therapy, rehab, taping, and nutrition Dr Sisk has effectively treated patients with a wide variety of health problems, as well as, individuals looking to maintain and achieve better health and wellness.

If you are searching for innovative methods to

Have a child with ADHD or Spectrum disorders? Diagnosed with an auto-immune disease or gluten-intolerance? Suffering from digestive issues? Theresa Edmunds is a Certified Health Counselor who helps her clients feel better and create lasting health. Call and schedule your free initial consultation today. “There is a better way. . .Live Healthier, Feel Better, Be Happier”

ALLIANCE COUNSELING CENTER Sandy Waundless, M.A., L.L.P. 23409 Jefferson Avenue, Suite 100 St. Clair Shores, MI 48080 586-778-6967 alliancecounselingcenter@wowway.biz

1075 Ann Arbor Road Plymouth, MI 48170 734-454-5600 IHChiro.com

Theresa Edmunds, CHC (734) 308-7105 theresaedmunds@hotmail.com www.theresaedmunds.com

COUNSELING

Debbie Bollen Farmington Hills 248-254-7823 www.aperfectbalancedmind.com

INTEGRATIVE HEALTH CHIROPRACTIC CENTER

HEALTH COUNSELING

NATUROPATHIC SCHOOL of the HEALING ARTS. NATUROPATH DIPLOMA (ND) , AND INTEGRATED THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE DIPLOMA Commutable scheduling in Ann Arbor, serving the Great Lakes region.

734-769-7794 NaturopathicSchoolofAnnArbor.net

See schedules, fees, FAQ, Clinic Hours State Licensed school.

Supervised student clinic offering on-site clinical internships. On-site Herbal Pharmacy and Dispensary.

Naturopathy diploma (ND), Massage Therapy/Natural Medicine Diploma, Medicinal Herbal Studies, Iridology, Bodywork Therapies, Energy Medicine, Healing Diets

HEALTH FOOD STORES ZERBO’S 34164 Plymouth Rd., Livonia, MI 48150 734-427-3144 Zerbos.com Wall to Wall supplements Organic products & produce Frozen & Refrigerated foods Groceries, Teas, Bulk Foods Natural Chemical Free Pet Products Mineral Based Cosmetics Chemical Free Personal Care products Raw Living & Sprouted Food Section Fitness Section and more.

PURE PASTURES East 6870 Telegraph Rd

Dearborn Heights, MI 48127 313-277-4066 West 1192 Ann Arbor Rd

Plymouth, MI 48170 734-927-6951

NaturalLocalFoods.com

natural awakenings

We specialize in organic, and locally sourced, grass fed meats, eggs and cheeses, free of antibiotics and hormones. Also an assortment of gluten free plus many fine Michigan made artisan products

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communityresourceguide Want to reach readers who are health and wellness focused?

Learn how to list your services in the Community Resource Guide.

Call us at 313-221-9674

HOLISTIC HEALTH DETROIT WHOLISTIC CENTER 20944 Grand River Ave. Detroit, Mi. 48219 313-538-5433 www.DetroitWholisticCenter.com Wholistic Health Services and Training Specializing in Colon Hydrotherapy (colonics) and cleansing programs. Established in 1987 Jesse R. Brown N.D. and staff have helped thousands relieve colon congestion and lose weight naturally. All therapists certified by Wholistic Training Institute-WTI licensed by the State of Michigan and providing training since 1999.

734-645-4434 www.DrDSNaturesRemedies.com Certified naturopathic doctor offers acupuncture treatments, nutritional counseling, massage raindrop therapy, and biomeridian testing for a variety of issues. Advanced training in nutrition response testing for food sensitivities, chemicals, heavy metals, or virus, bacteria, fungus or parasites. She works out of several clinics in Canton or Livonia. Call to schedule an appt today to get your health back on track.

RETREAT CENTERS SONG OF THE MORNING YOGA RETREAT CENTER 9607 Sturgeon Valley Rd Vanderbilt, MI 49795 989-983-4107 office@songofthemorning.org SongoftheMorning.org

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

44 Wayne County Edition

ONE SPACE LESLIE BLACKBURN Dearborn, MI 313.269.6719 OneSpaceConnected.com MysterySchooloftheTempleArts.com

Illuminating the Path of Self-Realization through A r t , Yo g a , S a c r e d Geometry, Sacred Sexuality & more! Individual and couple coaching is available in addition to group classes, workshops and retreats. Browse the website for original artwork and music. Prints, music downloads and commission pieces are also available.

WELLNESS CENTERS DR CAROL ANN FISCHER, D.C. N.D. TLC HOLISTIC WELLNESS 31580 Schoolcraft Rd Livonia, MI 48150 734-664-0339 You deserve the best TLC TLCHolisticWellness.com

NATURES REMEDIES DR DENISE ACTON, N.D.

available.

SPIRITUALITY

Dr. Carol Ann Fischer, D.C., N.D. owns TLC Holistic Wellness in Livonia. She is a practicing chiropractor, naturopath and wellness consultant, who for 28 years has provided holistic and nutritional recommendations using whole food supplements.

Visit www.TLCHolisticWellness.com for more health information, and free public workshop dates.

DR. WILLIAM H. KARL, D.C., CERTIFIED WELLNESS DOCTOR KARL WELLNESS CENTER & CHIROPRACTIC CLINIC 30935 Ann Arbor Trail Westland, MI 48185 734-425-8220 KarlWellnessCenter.com Certified Wellness Doctor with over 30 years experience, Dr. William H. Karl, D.C., is dedicated to helping his patients obtain optimal healthutilizing whole food supplements, herbs, homeopathic remedies, nutritional consultation, allergy elimination/reprogramming techniques, detoxification programs, advanced chiropractic care, cold laser, and Neurological Relief Techniques for Fibromyalgia and pain management.

NaturalAwakeningsDetroit.com

DR SHARON A. OLIVER, M.D. INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE INSTITUTE 18714 Woodward Ave,, Detroit, MI 48203 313-368-2284 313-368-4598 fax DrOliverMD.Tripod.com

Dr. Oliver is a medical doctor Board Certified by the American Holistic Medical Association.

She has over 15 years experience helping people achieve their optimal health with the use of foods, herbs and natural remedies. If needed Dr. Oliver has the knowledge and ability to help you effectively use conventional treatments, including chelation therapy, intravenous Vitamin C, and nutritional I.V.s. Come experience truly wholistic care!

EXHALATION INTEGRATIVE WELLNESS NATURAL HEALTH | WELLNESS | FITNESS 18930 Greenfield Road – Lower Level Detroit, Michigan 48235 www.eiw-dt.com (313) 744-2747

This center for natural healing offers assessments and personalized health improvement programs using a unique combination of natural therapies and protocols. Experienced and certified natural health professionals assist clients on a path to achieving optimal wellbeing.

YOGA YOGA 4 PEACE

13550 Dix-Toledo Rd., Southgate Mi 48195 www.y4peace.org

Yoga 4 Peace is a non-profit yoga studio that offers classes on a donation basis. We have a wide variety of classes for every level. We offer Classes, Workshops, Retreats and Teacher Training.

classifieds To place a listing: 3 lines minimum (or 35 words): 1 month $25; or 3 months for $60 prepaid. Extra words: $1 each: Send check w/listing by 15th of the month to Healthy Living Detroit, Inc. - Classifieds, Box 341081, Detroit, MI 48234-1081 or email to Publisher@NaturalAwakeningsDetroit.com.

HEALTH STUDIES VOLUNTEERS NEEDED TO DRINK MEDICAL GRADE WATER. Requirements: age 25-75, desire to eliminate unwanted fatigue, weight, digestive, joint or body pain, where traditional meds have not gotten desired results.

Must attend one 2.5 hour class, return 6 more times for water, and only drink water provided. Improved health is only compensation. Call (248) 382-8668.

Politics shouldn’t be the least heart-filled thing we do; it should be the most heart-filled thing we do.

It should be a collective expression of our most enlightened selves.

editorial calendar

~Marianne Williamson

rethinking heart health

AVON THE EARNING OPPORTUNITY FOR YOU. Become an AVON Representative today for only $10!! Be YOUR BEST with the BEST!! Call Kai 586-489-9825 to buy or sell AVON YourAvon.com/KaiJohnson Holistic Health Business--Medical Thermography. See breast health without radiation. Entire business with accounts and all supplies $5,000. see www.healthybreastscan.com for info call 734-972-8775

JANUARY

health & wellness

plus: health coaches FEBRUARY

plus: stress relief MARCH

food & garden

plus: gluten-free foods APRIL

green living

plus: healthy home MAY

women’s wellness plus: bodywork JUNE

inspired living

MASSAGE THERAPY

plus: men’s wellness JULY

BODY RELIEF 4U

plus: natural medicine cabinet

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES NEW TO THE U.S.! AWARD-WINNING, CERTIFIED ORGANIC NEAL’S YARD REMEDIES SKINCARE PRODUCTS, loved in the UK for 30 years, now available in the U.S. Independent Consultants needed-ground floor opportunity Enjoy a fun and flexible home-based business. To learn more contact: Paula Neys at pneys@ wideopenwest.com

2014

food watch

Wellness - Massage & Art 16060 Eureka Rd, Southgate (734) 752-7885 USA Veteranowned since 2005

AUGUST

transformative education plus: children’s health SEPTEMBER

conscious caretaking plus: yoga

OCTOBER

sustainable communities plus: chiropractic and acupuncture NOVEMBER

personal empowerment plus: beauty

DECEMBER

awakening humanity plus: holiday themes

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46 Wayne County Edition

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Egg Nog Smoothie GIFT CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE FOR:

In Store, Juice Bar & Pre-Registered Classes

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DECEMBER2013 natural awakenings

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inspiration

BE HAPPY RIGHT NOW The Top Five Regrets of the Dying

by Bronnie Ware

P

eople grow a lot when faced with their own mortality. As a palliative caregiver for many years, I learned never to underestimate someone’s capacity for personal growth.

After wrestling with a variety of intense emotions, every patient I saw found their peace before they departed.

When questioned about regrets or what they would have done differently, five themes emerged.

I wish I’d had the courage to live a life true to myself, not the life others expected of me. This was the most common regret of all. When people realize that their life is almost over and look back clearly on it, it is easy to see how many dreams have gone unfulfilled.

Most people had not honored even half of their dreams and died knowing that it was due to choices they had made or not made. Health brings a freedom very few realize until they no longer have it.

I wish I hadn’t worked so hard. Every male patient that I nursed felt they had missed their children’s youth and their partner’s companionship. They deeply regretted spending so much of their lives on the treadmill of a work existence. Women also spoke of this regret, but because most were from an older generation, many had not been breadwinners.

I wish I’d had the courage to express my feelings. Many people suppressed their feelings in order to keep peace with others. As a result, they settled for a mediocre existence and never became who they were truly capable of becoming. As a result, many developed illnesses apparently related to the bitterness and resentment they carried.

I wish I had stayed in touch with my friends. Many were disappointed they had not truly realized the full benefits of old friends until their dying weeks, and it was not always possible to track

them down. Many had become so caught up in their own lives that they had let golden friendships slip away.

Many deeply regretted not giving important friendships the time and effort that they deserved.

I wish that I had let myself be happier.

Many did not understand until the end that happiness is a choice. They had stayed stuck in old patterns and habits.

The so-called comfort of familiarity overflowed into their emotions, as well as their physical lives. Fear of change had them pretending to others and to themselves that they were content, when deep within, they longed to laugh with gusto and cultivate some silliness in their life.

Bronnie Ware is the author of The Top Five Regrets of the Dying: A Life Transformed by the Dearly Departing, a memoir of how people she cared for changed the way she lives. She blogs at InspirationAndChai.com.

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W

e spend a good deal of time gazing at ourselves in a mirror with the physical eye, as well as into the mirror of our mind with an analytical eye, endeavoring to size ourselves up in our own estimation, and also determining how others might evaluate us. Both of these mirrors are clouded with ego-related dust that distorts our vision. Only when we turn our gaze inward with the intuitive eye of awareness can we perceive our innate wholeness, for there is no dust on the mirror of the soul.

Consider this: A consciousness of wholeness reunifies us with our authentic self, so that even during those times when we are unaware of it, our wholeness is intact and utterly dust-free—only our awareness of it is missing. When awareness returns, we live free from ego’s bondage and its ignorance-soaked history and habits. We are reunified with the reality of our being.

Our daily practice is to be ever mindful—on the dot— the moment we lose sight of our true nature. Everyday experiences grace us with reminders by mentally tapping us on the shoulder and returning us to the qualities we wish to express in our interactions with our self, others and all of life. We are continually given the opportunity to reconnect with the high vision we hold for ourselves in our mental, emotional, spiritual, physical, professional, relational and communal life structures.

It serves us well to remember that we are here learning to mother our consciousness, just as the universe mothers us throughout our lifetime and beyond. Intelligence, wisdom, intuition, joy and creativity—these are the qualities we want to mother within ourselves in order to unveil our original face. As we set a conscious intention to evolve, we live as the master artists we are—creating, directing and producing our lives.

The more time we set aside for meditation, contemplation and life visioning, the more we can have 20/20 vision in foresight, rather than hindsight. Through practice, we activate our intuition, clean off egoic dust and enter a more consistently clear-sighted state of mindful being. Thus we actualize our highest potential and realize our organic, enlightened consciousness.

Michael Bernard Beckwith is the founder of the Agape International Spiritual Center, in Los Angeles, California, author of Life Visioning: A Transformative Process for Activating Your Unique Gifts and Highest Potential (Sounds True, 2011/2013), and originator of the Life Visioning process.

Discover Easy Ways to Update a Wardrobe in New Dress a Day Book

I

n Marisa Lynch’s recently published New Dress A Day, readers can learn how to go from thrift shop cheap to runway chic. Based on Lynch’s popular blog of the same name, the innovative tailor demonstrates how to easily and affordably transform a wardrobe from frumpy to fabulous. With a little imagination, Lynch’s do-ityourself tips and tools like needles, thread and safety pins, an outdated castoff can be updated with style and savings.

In this book, readers will discover how to ace the sewing basics, create do-it-yourself designer look-alikes, style the same dress in seven different ways and more.

For more information, visit NewDressADay.com.

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