February 2012 - Genesee/Lapeer Natural Awakenings by Natural Awakenings of East Michigan

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February 2012 | Genesee, Lapeer & Shiawassee | NAeastMichigan.com

The TornadoSuit™ Makes Scoliosis Treatment Comfortable

he TornadoSuit™ is a new type of functional scoliosis activity suit that acts upon the spine much differently than conventional rigidstyle scoliosis braces. It can be easily concealed underneath clothing, and has shown immediate correction of the scoliosis curvature. The TornadoSuit ™ was developed by Mark Morningstar, DC, who also founded the ARC3D system of scoliosis treatment.

Coming in March

upon the location and severity of the scoliosis. The TornadoSuit™ is designed to be used in conjunction with an exercise-based scoliosis therapy, such as the ARC3D Therapy (arc3dtherapy.com). This enhances the effectiveness of the TornadoSuit™ compared to wearing the TornadoSuit™ alone.

Because it is not a hard brace, but made “As an active member instead out of neoof SOSORT, a European prene (a stretchable Thoracolumbar based medical society foyet durable material), Configuration cused on exercise-based it does allow some give treatments for scoliosis, I’ve been over the course of time over each fortunate enough to be exposed wear period (3-6 hours per day). to all types of scoliosis treatment The TornadoSuit™ material allows worldwide. Having seen the benthe patient to maintain efits and disadvantages of his or her flexibility, various types of bracing and can be worn while both in the US and abroad, participating in sports I tried to create a design and other athletic acthat incorporated as many tivities. However, it of the advantages as possistill maintains a high ble without the drawbacks level of support to alof conventional bracing,” low the muscles of says Morningstar. the spine to work less Full Torso According to preliminary while still stabilizing Version reports, the TornadoSuit™ the spine. Preliminary is more comfortable than hard research suggests that the avbraces, yet it still provides substan- erage initial correction of the tial support, while also being thin spinal curvature ranges between enough to conceal under clothing 15-35%. Patients wearing the TornadoSuit™ for one year are for daylong wear. maintaining scoliosis improveA big advantage of the TornadoSuments of 10-40%. it™ is that it can be worn exclusively at home, thereby minimizing the For more information on impact of treatment on a child’s the TornadoSuit™, or to schedule self-esteem and confidence. Since your free initial consult, please it is comprised of multiple pieces, contact Dr. Morningstar at 810the TornadoSuit™ can be fully cus- 694-3576, or email him at: tomized to each patient, depending drmorningstar@nwprc.com. advertisement

Changing the Way America Eats Natural Awakenings’

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contents 7

23 16

5 newsbriefs

7 healthbriefs

10 globalbriefs

12 healthykids

15 gracefulaging

19 wisewords

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.

12 HOW A BRAIN GROWS

Five Ways to Aid Development by Lisa Marshall

20 healingways

21 fitbody

22 consciouseating

15 A BRAIN-BUILDING

BLUEPRINT

How to Keep the Mind Young and Memory Sharp

23 inspiration

24 calendarofevents

by Lisa Marshall

27 ongoingevents

19 THE BENEFITS

29 naturaldirectory 30 classifieds

OF BURNOUT

An Oxymoron? Not According to Psychologist Joan Borysenko by Linda Sechrist

advertising & submissions how to advertise To advertise with Natural Awakenings or request a media kit, please contact us at 248-628-0125 or email: Advertising@NAeastMichigan.com. Deadline for ads: the 12th of the month. Editorial submissions Email articles, news items and ideas to: Editor@NAeastMichigan.com. Deadline for editorial: the 5th of the month.

ALL GET ALONG?

Resolving Conflict Benefits Mind and Body by Lisa Shumate

Staying Active Lifts Our Spirits by Priscilla Goudreau-Santos

22 IMPROVE YOUR SNOOZE Sleep Aids versus Sleep Sappers by Judith Fertig

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20 HOW CAN WE

21 EXERCISE TO BEAT THE BLUES

calendar submissions Email Calendar Events to: Calendar@NAeastMichigan.com. Please see guidelines on our website first Deadline for calendar: the 12th of the month.

Natural Awakenings

23 WABI SABI LOVE

Embracing Imperfections in Relationships by Arielle Ford

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February 2012

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Natural Awakenings of East Michigan Greater Genesee, Lapeer and Shiawassee Edition Michigan Healthy Living & Sustainability P.O. Box 283 • Oxford, MI • 48371

Phone: 248-628-0125 Fax: 866-556-5205

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www.NAeastMichigan.com ©2011-12 by Natural Awakenings of East Michigan, Natural Awakenings Publishing Corp. and Michigan Healthy Living and Sustainability, Inc. All rights reserved. Although some parts of this publication may be reproduced and reprinted, we require that written permission be obtained in advance. We do not necessarily endorse the views expressed in the articles and advertisements, nor are we responsible for the products or services advertised. The information contained herein is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Always seek the advice of your medical professional.

ne in five people older than 65 suffer from "mild cognitave impairment." And according to the Alzheimer's Association, if we live to be 90, upwards of half of us could ultimately be diagnosed with that disease. Those statistics come from our feature article this month "A Brain-Building Blueprint," which provides tips on how to keep the mind young and the memory sharp. It seems like just about everyone we know, us included, has at least one family member suffering memory-loss. The condition ranges from just being "forgetful," all the way up to not remembering family members and worse. As our technology finds new ways to help us live longer, it seems we become prone to conditions that were not common years ago. We're nowhere near that age yet, but we already experience times when we just forget, whether it's someone's name, one of the items we went to the store for, where we put our keys or other situations we never seemed to forget about in our younger days. We believe that living a healthy lifestyle; meaning eating right, staying fit and keeping our environment clean; are all keys to maintaining a strong, healthy mind. When you read the articles we have this month and some of the factors are explained, you'll see what we mean (if you're not already well-versed on the subject). Sure, there are indications that genetics may partially play a role, but who's to say that an unhealthy lifestyle won't accellerate and/or exacerbate the onset of memory loss? We encourage you to learn as much as you can about these conditions, here and from other sources, and share your knowledge–especially that which you learn pertaining to natural, integrative and complementary approaches. We also have lots of other information for living healthier. We hope you enjoy and benefit from them all. We're down to the last 60 days before the 5th Annual Spring Into Health Natural Health Fair and Expo, coming up March 31st at the Genesys Banquet and Conference Center in Grand Blanc. Each year the event grows, and this year we're expanding our exhibition area to allow for more exhibitors. We hope to see you there. If you, or someone you know, is interested in exhibiting, please visit our website for the event: www.MHLexpo.com. It contains all the information. And watch the website as we begin announcing the speakers scheduled for the event. Until next month, stay happy and healthy...naturally!

We welcome your ideas, articles and comments.

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newsbriefs Relief for the Winter Blues at Owosso Wellness Boutique

ealthy Happy Whole, Integrative Medicine and Wellness Boutique is now offering Full Spectrum Light Therapy in its Owosso clinic. Light Therapy is a safe, natural and effective therapy that provides preventative care and symptom relief in the treatment of depression, anxiety, insomnia, weight gain, fatigue and seasonal affective disorder. Full spectrum light therapy may be used alone, or in combination with acupuncture, herbal medicine, nutritional therapy and mind body fitness classes to maximize healing benefits. "Patients utilizing light therapy," says Korina St. John of Healthy Happy Whole, who holds a Diplomate of Oriental Medicine and is a Licensed Acupuncturist "report feeling an increase of energy, better concentration, improved sleep, fewer hunger cravings, and a general sense of overall wellbeing." Light Therapy sessions at Healthy Happy Whole are available on a walk-in basis. Single sessions are $5 and range from 10 to 25 minutes. Packages may be purchased in 5 session, 10 sesKorina St. John, Dipl.OM, L.Ac sion and monthly unlimited increments. "We invite readers to schedule an appointment to participate in our AcuCare Group Clinic," suggests Korina, "which combines the benefits of two proven therapies, acupuncture and light therapy. Payments are based on a sliding scale, $35-$65." Several insurance companies cover Light Therapy sessions and equipment. Readers should call to inquire about possible coverage with their insurance provider.

Do you have a special event in the community? Open a new office? Move? Recently become certified in a new modality?

Healthy Happy Whole, Integrative Medicine & Wellness Boutique is located in Woodard Station at 317 S Elm, Suite 202B, Owosso MI. Clinic Hours: Tuesday & Thursday 1pm-8pm, Wednesday & Friday 10am-1pm. For more information, call 989-720-HEAL or visit HealthyHappyWhole.com. See ad page 30.

Learn About HCG Weight Loss In Lapeer

n Thursday, February 2, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m., L.B. Deverell of Rebekah's Health and Nutrition Source in Lapeer will speak on HCG and Weight Loss at Mott Community College. Those who attend will learn how thousands of people have lost 30 pounds in 30 days and kept it off. The many benefits of human chorionic gonadotropin and what it can do will be discussed. Admission is $25. For more information about the talk, contact Rebekahâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Health and Nutrition Source, 700 S. Main St., Suite 113, Lapeer. 810-660-8585. To register, contact Mott Community Education, Lapeer: 810-667-6546. See ad page 15.

News Briefs.

We welcome news items relevant to the subject matter of our magazine. We also welcome any suggestions you may have for a news item. Visit our website for guidelines and a convenient online submission form to guide you through the submission process.

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February 2012

newsbriefs Fundraiser For Rochester Birth and Family Wellness Center Providing Guidance and Direction for Better Health • Relaxing Therapeutic Massage • Hot Stone & Deep Tissue Massage • Reflexology • Nutritional Counseling • Scenar Therapy • Blood Interpretation • Bio Terrain • Ear Candling • Ion Cleanse If you are concerned about your health, have a specific health problem, or simply want to fine tune your current level of well-being call

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team of local women have partnered together to create a Birth and Family Wellness Center in downtown Rochester, with a planned opening. They are seeking the community’s support to help open their doors this summer. “It is our mission to serve all families interested in the birth and wellness options our center provides,” states HypnoBirthing Educator, Natalie Fuoco. “Through our nonprofit entity, we are able to service families that are interested in our birth services but are unable to afford care. We also believe it is our responsibility to empower families in their birth and wellness choices through education and to encourage conscious living choices. We hope to create a paradigm shift in wellness through support, education and awareness,” Fuoco explains. As fundraisers, the team has organized two opportunities to view special screenings of Ricki Lake’s acclaimed 4-part documentary More Business of Being Born. The Emagine Theater in Royal Oak, will present each part of the documentary on Mondays, Feb 6, 13, 20 and 27th at 7pm. In addition, a weekend workshop will be held at the Emagine Theater in Rochester Hills at 10am on Feb 18-19th, and includes birth and wellness speakers and refreshments along with the screening of the film. Tickets are $12 per showing. Ticket sales for the weekend run of 'More Business of Being Born' are $28 per day. The weekend workshop includes two showings, speakers and a light breakfast. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit BirthCenter2012.com.

Expo Showcases Martial Arts

he 40th World Health Fitness Wellness and Martial Arts Expo, also known as the Stars For Charity Expo, will take place on Saturday, March 24, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the University of Michigan Dearborn Field House, in Dearborn. The event is a fundraiser for CBM Health Care, Inc., a non profit organization dedicated to providing primary medical care services, including holistic and integrated medicine, to persons residing in the four County area. Admission to the Expo is a free-will donation to the charity. Attendees will enjoy visiting the many healthy vendors; viewing demonstrations, including the Guiness Book record holder Big K, who will smash through 500 bricks in under one minute; sampling health and fitness products and meeting various stars in the field of Martial Arts. A live action tournament will also be held with competitors showcasing Tae Kwon Do, Tang Soo Do, Karate, Kung Fu, Mixed Arts and other styles. The 40th World Health Fitness Wellness and Martial Arts Expo will be held at 4901 Evergreen Rd., in Dearborn. For more information visit StarsForCharityExpo. com, CBMHealthCare.org or call Dr. Ahmed at 313-815-8767.

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healthbriefs

Meditation Boosts Brain Power

niversity of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) researchers first discovered that specific regions in the brains of long-term meditators were larger and contained more gray matter than those of a non-meditating control group; that was in 2009. Now, a follow-up study by the UCLA Laboratory of Neuro Imaging suggests people that meditate regularly also display stronger neuronal connections between brain regions and less age-related atrophy (shrinkage) in all areas of the brain. The study comprised 27 active meditation practitioners (average age 52) and 27 control subjects, matched by age and sex. The number of years of meditation ranged from five to 46 and included various styles. Using a type of brain imaging known as diffusion tensor imaging, or DTI—a new imaging mode that provides insights into the structural connectivity of the brain—the researchers found that long-term meditators have white matter fibers that are either more numerous, more dense or more insulated, throughout the brain. Although such tissue tends to decline with age, the study suggests that it can be preserved through active meditation practices. Researcher Eileen Luders remarks, “If practiced regularly and over years, meditation may slow down aging-related brain atrophy, perhaps by positively affecting the immune system. Meditation appears to be a powerful mental exercise with the potential to change the physical structure of the brain.”

Does Yawning Cool the Brain?

hen we feel the urge to yawn in cooler weather, we should succumb—it might do us good. New research suggests that beyond signaling fatigue or boredom, yawning might be a physical reaction to cool an “overheated” brain. A study at Princeton University is the first to show that the frequency of yawning varies with the season and that people are less likely to yawn when the heat outdoors exceeds body temperature. The research monitored 160 people, 80 per season, during winter and summer in Tucson, Arizona. According to the researchers’ theory, it is possible that yawning in cooler temperatures works to cool the brain, while yawning in warmer conditions appears to provide no similar relief. Research associate Andrew Gallup remarks, “The applications of this research are intriguing… for better understanding diseases and conditions such as multiple sclerosis or epilepsy, which are accompanied by frequent yawning and thermoregulatory dysfunction.” Excessive yawning may prove a helpful diagnostic tool.

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healthbriefs

Potassium Protects the Heart

ccording to the American Heart Association, heart disease is the leading cause of death and a major contributor to disability in this country. A recent study sponsored by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) suggests that in addition to cutting dietary sodium to improve heart health, Americans should increase consumption of a key mineral found in many fruits and vegetables: potassium. The study of more than 12,000 adults reported that people eating a diet high in sodium and low in potassium have a 50 percent increased risk of death from any disease than average and about twice the risk of death from heart attacks. Sodium, a key component of salt, raises blood pressure, which in turn increases the risk of heart disease. Potassium has been found to offset sodium’s impact on blood pressure. Current U.S. dietary guidelines recommend an adult daily potassium intake of 4,700 milligrams and a maximum sodium intake of 2,300 milligrams (about a teaspoon of salt); or less than 1,500 milligrams for people age 51 and older, African-Americans or those that suffer from hypertension, diabetes or chronic kidney disease. The CDC reveals that the average American adult consumes 3,400 milligrams of sodium a day, about 80 percent from processed or restaurant foods. To achieve a healthier sodium-potassium ratio, the CDC recommends a diet that emphasizes fresh, unprocessed foods and plenty of fruits and vegetables. Foods high in potassium include sweet and white potatoes, spinach, tomatoes and bananas, as well as orange and prune juice, dates, plain yogurt and fish.

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Seaweed Loves the Heart

ome relish seaweed, while others eye it with culinary suspicion. Now an article in the American Chemical Society’s Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry reports that many scientists have identified seaweed as a rich, potential source of heart-healthy food ingredients. A review of nearly 100 studies shows that seaweed and other microalgae could rival milk products as sources of important bioactive peptides. Maria Hayes, Ph.D., and her colleagues at the Teagasc Food Research Centre, in Dublin, Ireland, concluded that certain seaweed proteins work just like the bioactive peptides in milk products to reduce blood pressure, almost like angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor drugs. Thus, they could be used as ingredients in functional foods like soups and health beverages to provide nutrition, while offering medicinal effects in treating or preventing heart disease. Seaweeds are a neglected alternative source of these bioactive peptides in this country, the researchers state, noting its popularity in other cultures. Varieties of seaweed are known as nori in Japan, dulse in coastal parts of Europe and limu palahalaha in native Hawaiian cuisine. In addition, notes Hayes, “Seaweeds are a known source of essential fatty acids, which are thought to reduce thrombosis and atherosclerosis—factors important in the reduction of the risk of heart disease.”

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Regular Bedtimes Make Kids Smarter

ccording to research presented at the 24th annual meeting of the Associated Professional Sleep Societies, children that get adequate sleep score higher on a range of developmental assessments. The researchers emphasized that having a regular bedtime was the most consistent predictor of positive developmental outcomes at 4 years of age. Scores for receptive and expressive language skills, awareness of sound-word structure, literacy and early math abilities were higher in children whose parents maintained rules about going to bed at a prescribed time. Having an earlier bedtime further supported higher scores for most developmental measures. The study involved a nationally representative sample of approximately 8,000 children that completed a direct assessment at 4 years of age. They were part of the Early Childhood Longitudinal Study, Birth Cohort. Source: American Academy of Sleep Medicine

ALCOHOL IMPAIRS RECOVERY FROM ILLNESS

esearchers from the University of Massachusetts Medical School that collected blood from volunteers to study how drinking alcohol affects monocytes, the white blood cells that are part of the immune system, made an unwelcome discovery. Alcohol can worsen the effects of disease and lengthen the recovery period following trauma, injury or burns. It both impairs the body’s antiviral immune response, especially in the liver, and increases inflammation, so think twice before downing

another hot toddy. Source: BioMed Central

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February 2012

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

Green Laundry List

Use Cold Water and Eco-Wise Detergents Mom may have said that hot water washes best, but don’t give cold-water detergents the cold shoulder—today’s new products deliver clean laundry that’s easy on the pocketbook and the planet. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, an average American family annually washes nearly 400 loads of laundry. Because heating the water accounts for 90 percent of the energy used by a washing machine, using only hot or warm water in a top-loading electric washer annually produces an average 2,407 pounds of CO2 pollution—equivalent to two cross-country flights. Many conventional cold-water detergents still contain toxic chemicals that when drained, end up in waterways, creating a host of environmental woes and exposing wildlife to endocrine disruptors. For both clean and green clothes, buy biodegradable laundry detergents made with plant oils and other natural ingredients that are free of phosphates, bleach and surfactants such as petroleum-based nonylphenol ethoxylates, or NPE. Kinder to the planet, greener choices are also gentler on the skin.

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Consumers concerned about killing bacteria, dust mites and other allergens may be tempted to turn on the hot water tap for sheets, linens and underwear, but Philip Tierno, Jr., Ph.D., a professor of microbiology and pathology at the New York University School of Medicine, says that most of the hot water people use is not hot enough anyway. “You need water that’s between 140 and 150 degrees to kill germs,” he advises. Tierno, author of The Secret Life of Germs, notes that the sun is one of nature’s most efficient germ killers, so letting clothes dry outdoors is a good eco-option. “The ultraviolet radiation kills germs,” he advises, “and it’s just as effective as bleach.” Natural disinfectants that can be added during rinsing include white vinegar (one-half cup per load); grapefruit seed extract (one teaspoon); tea tree oil (two teaspoons); and lavender or peppermint essential oil (a few drops), which also imparts a fresh fragrance. Find more tips on the Sierra Club’s website at Tinyurl.com/3kh2dpf.

Low Tech

Silicon Valley School Eschews Computers The Waldorf School of the Peninsula, in Los Altos, California, is one of 160 Waldorf schools in the country that subscribe to a teaching philosophy focused on physical activity and learning through creative, hands-on tasks. The New York Times reports that the chief technology officer of eBay sends his children to this nine-classroom institution, as do employees of Silicon Valley giants like Google, Apple, Yahoo and Hewlett-Packard. Yet, the school’s main teaching tools are anything but high-tech, comprising pen and paper, knitting needles and occasionally, mud. No computers or screens of any kind are allowed in the classroom, and the school frowns on their use at home. Educators that endorse this approach say computers inhibit creative thinking, movement, human interaction and attention spans. Alan Eagle, a communications executive at Google, whose daughter attends the school, says, “The idea that an app on an iPad can better teach my kids to read or do arithmetic, that’s ridiculous.” Source: The New York Times www.NAeastMichigan.com

Vanishing Species

Coming in March

Counting our Natural Blessings A study by Canada’s Dalhousie University postulates that as many as 86 percent of Earth’s species are still unknown, and millions of organisms will remain undiscovered as extinctions accelerate worldwide at 10 to 100 times their natural rate. If, as the study’s co-author Boris Worm suggests, our planet is home to 8.7 million species, it means scientists have cataloged fewer than 15 percent of species now alive. Many unknown organisms will wink out of existence before they can even be recorded. Although the catalog of mammals and birds may be nearly complete, inventories of other classes of life are far behind. Only 7 percent of the predicted number of fungi and fewer than 10 percent of all ocean life forms have been identified. Categorizing a new organism is more complicated than discovering one. “It’s a long process,” Worm explains. “Most scientists will describe dozens of species in their lifetime, if they’re really lucky. What’s been discovered so far are those things that are easy to find, that are conspicuous, that are relatively large. There is an age of discovery ahead of us when we could find out so much more of what lives with us on this planet.” Source: National Geographic

Natural Wonders

Virgin Forests are Irreplaceable Analysis by an international team of researchers of more than 100 studies comparing wildlife in forests that had been modified with those that had not confirms the crucial role that virgin forests play in conserving the natural world. The researchers conclude in the journal Nature that, “When it comes to maintaining tropical biodiversity, there is no substitute for primary forests.” The worldwide meta-study found that most species, notably birds, do much better in virgin tracts than in areas that have been cleared for agriculture, plantations or agro-forestry or selectively logged for certain types of trees. In all but the latter, the overall impact on biodiversity was marked. In all cases, the variety of plants and animals was depleted more severely than the sheer number of organisms present. Surprisingly, total mammal populations may do better under some kinds of forest modification, although this may be because opportunistic animals such as rats multiply even as the diversity of mammals drops. Birds, insects and plants experience an unequivocal loss. The study addresses how best to specifically preserve nature across the tropics, where most human population growth and rapid development is occurring. It compares the effects of “land-sharing”, where farming and other development enables wildlife to share the same space, and “land-sparing”, which provides entitlement areas to wildlife while humans use other segments as intensely as they like.

Changing the Way America Eats Natural Awakenings’

Food & Garden issue explores fresh ways to eat well on a budget.

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Source: BBC News natural awakenings

February 2012

healthykids

HOW A BRAIN GROWS Five Ways to Aid Development by Lisa Marshall

Parents that believe playing Beethoven for their infant, investing in educational videos for their toddler or forcing schoolage youngsters to sit still and study for hours will help them to build a better brain have another “think” coming.

“P

eople are anxious to do everything they can to improve their child’s intelligence, yet many are focusing their energy in places where they are not getting the best payoff for it,” says neuroscientist Sandra Aamodt, Ph.D., co-author of Welcome to Your Child’s Brain: How the Mind Grows from Conception to College. In their new book, Aamodt and Princeton University Neuroscience Professor Sam Wang try to dispel what they believe are many myths that have

Genesee, Lapeer & Shiawassee, MI

led parents to worry too much about the influence they can have on a child’s cognitive development and in some cases, have led to doing more harm than good. Aamodt says that genetics and thousands of years of human evolution have already exerted a heavy influence on a child’s developmental future before he or she is born. In the absence of abuse and neglect, and with good nutrition and a stimulating environment, a child’s brain “raises itself” in many ways, the authors maintain. Meanwhile,

they argue that there is little scientific evidence showing that factors like birth order and exposure to classical music and educational videos have an impact on cognitive development. “Children come ‘out of the box’ with individual temperaments that strongly influence the possible paths they can take through life,” Aamodt observes. “Most parents believe that they can have a bigger influence on their child’s personalities than they actually do. They should relax and enjoy their kids more.” The authors offer these scientifically backed tips for parents and caregivers to influence a child’s developing brain: Don’t stress during pregnancy. “The hormones produced in the mother’s body during stressful times can cross over into the placenta, exposing the child. If it’s a chronic condition, it can lead to problems with brain development,” counsels Aamodt. One 2008 review paper from Harvard Medical School led researchers to conclude that babies born to stressed mothers are more likely to suffer from autism spectrum disorders. Others, from researchers in Canada and the UK, found that women that endure natural disasters while pregnant are more likely to have babies that suffer from schizophrenia, decreased IQ and depression. Animal research has repeatedly demonstrated that babies of stressed mothers often grow up with touchy stressresponse systems. Switch off the baby videos. University of Washington researchers have found that baby educational videos, like Baby Einstein and Brainy Baby fail to boost language skills and may actually slow acquisition of vocabulary. “For every hour per day spent watching baby DVDs and videos, infants understood an average of six to eight fewer words than infants that did not watch them,” the report said. Other research by the American Academy of Pediatrics suggests that exposure to action-packed videos may increase the risk of development of attention disorders. “Babies are wired to learn from other people, and every period of time they are not interacting with people because they are watch-

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ing TV interferes with that face-to-face interaction,” says Aamodt. Teach a second language. Bilingual children consistently outperform single-language speakers in tests of executive brain function (a measure of organizational and planning skills) and tend to be better at making choices and understanding other people’s perspectives, Aamodt says. “The very first act of speech for a bilingual person is picking which language to use, and you do that based on your understanding of the other person’s perspective.” Aamodt recommends exposing youngsters to a second language in infancy—if possible, just by speaking to them in a different language—and exploring more formal instruction before the age of 8. Foster self-control. “Ultimately, parents can make the biggest difference in their child’s adult quality of life by promoting self-control,” Aamodt says. Recent research published in the journal Science and elsewhere suggests that children with greater self-control (meaning they can resist temptation, stay on task and control their own behavior) achieve greater success in school, the workplace and their personal lives. “Preschool children’s ability to resist temptation is a much better predictor of academic success than their IQ scores,” Aamodt notes. She recommends engaging and progressively more challenging tasks. “You want to stretch the child just a little; get them to do something a little bit hard, but that they can succeed at if they concentrate.” Encourage study breaks. “Some very old science tells us that to learn effectively, you need to take breaks and allow your brain to consolidate what you have already learned before you go back and try to learn some more,” says Aamodt. “If you study a total of an hour, you will learn twice as much if you break it up into two 30-minute spans.” Hooray for recess. Lisa Marshall is a freelance health writer headquartered near Boulder, CO. Connect at Lisa@LisaAnnMarshall.com.

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“M

emory generally starts to decline in our 30s, as the brain shrinks with age. One of the first and most prominent signs is that ‘tip of the tongue’ phenomenon,” advises neuroscientist Sandra Aamodt, Ph.D., co-author of Welcome to Your Brain. Studies show that the adult brain can shrink as much as one-half to 1 percent annually in midlife, as neurons in the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus wither and the branches between them thin. Add hormonal changes, which can starve gray matter of nourishing estrogen and progesterone; less-than-stellar cardiovascular health, which tends to limit blood flow to the brain; and a gummy protein called amyloid plaque, which can hamper neuronal function; and cognitive decline may be exacerbated. Already, one in five people older than 65 suffer from “mild cognitive impairment” (persistent memory problems severe enough to be noticeable by

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“Have you seen my keys?” “Now, why did I come in here?” “Her name is on the tip of my tongue.” If you catch yourself uttering such phrases, listen up:

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others). According to the Alzheimer’s Association, if we live to age 90, as many as half of us could ultimately be diagnosed with that disease.

The good news: Such fates are far from inevitable. “People seem to expect that as soon as we start to need reading glasses,

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we should also expect some of these cognitive issues to arise, but it does not need to be that way,” says Naples, Florida-based Neurology Doctor David Perlmutter, co-author of Power up Your Brain. “You can absolutely do things early on in life and throughout your lifetime that work to maintain the bulk and function of the brain.”

Here’s how:

Stay lean. It may seem counterintuitive, but mounting evidence suggests that in order to grow a bigger brain, many of us should be eating less. “The key to the brain maintaining and even regenerating itself is the activation of a set of genes that code for a protein called brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF),” explains Perlmutter. “BDNF is significantly enhanced in people that simply cut down their calorie consumption.” Several animal and human studies support this conclusion. One 2009 study, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, divided 50 men and women age 50 and older into three groups that slashed calorie intake by 20 percent, 30 percent and not at all. After three months, the

groups that restricted their calories saw their verbal memory scores jump by more than 20 percent. Perlmutter notes that just being overweight in the prime of life can promote excess inflammation and free radical production—two enemies of a healthy brain. A 2005 study of 10,000 men and women conducted by researchers at Kaiser Permanente found that people that were obese in their early 40s had a 74 percent increased risk of developing dementia later in life. “Just a 25 percent reduction in calories over one month’s time can have a profound effect on boosting memory,” Perlmutter notes. Eat a brain-building diet. Aside from cutting calories, experts say it’s critical to load up on foods that boost neurogenesis (the development of new brain cells) and stall brain atrophy. Eating more fish (or omega-3 supplements), adding fruits and vegetables and cutting

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back on refined carbohydrates do just that, advises Dr. Christiane Northrup, obstetrician, gynecologist and author of Women’s Bodies Women’s Wisdom. “The brain is mostly made up of omega-3 fats, and many women, in particular, are lacking them in their diet,” she observes. Perlmutter notes that supplementing one’s intake of omega-3 fatty acid DHA, present in fatty fish and marine algae, has been shown to switch on the genes that jumpstart BDNF production. DHA is also antiinflammatory and promotes healthy blood flow to the brain. But people shouldn’t wait too long to load up on it. One 2010 trial of 485 healthy adults with mild memory complaints found that those who took 900 milligrams per day of algae-based DHA supplements for six months made significantly fewer errors on memory tests than they had at the study’s onset. Another study by the National Institute on Aging, however, found that DHA supplementation had little impact on patients once severe dementia had set in. So, sooner is better. Healthy fats aside, dark-colored fruits such as blackberries, blueberries and plums are all rich with antioxidants, substances known to scavenge cell-damaging free radicals in the brain. Also, cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and broccoli sprouts contain a powerful compound called sulforaphane, believed to boost the body’s own production of antioxidants. One famous 2005 study followed 13,388 women over several decades, and found that those that ate the most cruciferous vegetables and leafy greens stayed mentally sharp for far longer than those that ate the least. New research from Rush University, in Chicago, further suggests that a deficiency of B12, found in fish, liver, milk and eggs, may hasten brain shrinkage as previously functioning cells die off.

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Overloading on refined carbohydrates like white flour, pasta and potatoes carries a similar result. “Elevated blood sugar can destroy the brain,” advises Perlmutter, pointing to a 2005 study in the journal Neurology, which linked accelerated brain shrinkage with elevated blood sugar. Prevent hormonal havoc. Ebbing hormones can also have a measurable impact on our ability to recall words and follow through on tasks, says Hawaii naturopathic physician Laurie Steelsmith, author of Natural Choices for Women’s Health. One 2009 University of California study of 2,362 women between the ages of 42 and 52 found that 60 percent suffered memory and mental-processing

problems. “I hear about it almost every day from women in my practice,” comments Steelsmith. “They’re trying to find the word for, say, ‘garlic’ or ‘pen,’ and it just won’t come to them. It can be very frustrating.” Steelsmith notes that estrogen plays a critical role in influencing verbal and spatial memory and fine motor skills and bolstering the blood-brain barrier to keep toxins out. Meanwhile, progesterone acts on the same brain receptors that Valium does, promoting calm and aiding sleep. In the days immediately prior to menstruation, when estrogen and progesterone levels are low, or once women begin to approach menopause and they stay low, the brain feels it.

In an ideal world, the adrenal glands kick in to pick up where the ovaries leave off—producing sex hormones. “But women that are stressed out or not nourishing themselves tend to experience adrenal fatigue, so their adrenals are not able to act as a secondary source of hormones,” says Steelsmith. For ovulating women, she recommends taking 100 to 175 milligrams (mg) daily of the herb Rhodiola rosea during the second half of the menstrual cycle to support fatigued adrenal glands and ward off hormone-related brain fog. If the condition occurs only for a few days before a menstrual period, and is accompanied by tender breasts, lack of sleep and heavy monthly bleed-

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We encourage and welcome participation by experts in our community. Local articles are what make Natural Awakenings a community resource for naturally healthy and sustainable living..for everyone. We want our readers to get to know you. Submitting editorial for one or more of our departments provides you with the opportunity to share knowledge and bring focus to your business and/or practice. For details, editorial and styling guidelines, visit our website: NAEastMichigan.com

Or email us: publisher@NAEastMichigan.com

ing, the problem may be low progesterone. For that, try the herb chaste tree berry during the second half of the menstrual cycle, or consider a low dose, over-the-counter progesterone cream, says Northrup. For post-menopausal women, she recommends taking up to 50 mg per day of pregnenolone, an adrenal hormone that the body naturally converts into estrogen and progesterone. (While pregnenolone is available over the counter, Steelsmith suggests that women have a naturopath first test their hormone levels in order to determine an appropriate dose.) Or, older men and women experiencing age-related memory loss can try a soy-based nutritional supplement called phosphatidylserine (PS), which is believed to bolster cell-to-cell communication and levels of the memoryboosting neurotransmitter acetylcholine. Exercise mind and body. Aamodt notes that a common cause of cognitive decline is the accumulation of clogged blood vessels in the brain that choke off blood and oxygen. Thus, “Regular exercise is the single most useful thing you can do to maintain your cognitive abilities later in life,” she says. Recent studies by researchers at the University of Illinois and elsewhere have shown that as little as 45 minutes of aerobic exercise, three times per week, may not only stall age-related brain atrophy in the elderly, but even help regenerate

parts of the brain that have withered. “There is no medication on the planet that can do that,” says Perlmutter. Brain exercise is helpful, as well. Exposure to new experiences prompts the brain to literally lay down new neuronal networks, becoming stronger. A 2009 Mayo Clinic study found that of 1,300 people ages 70 to 89, those that had regularly engaged in mentally challenging activities in their 50s and 60s (such as playing games, quilting, building model airplanes, or learning a new language or instrument) were 40 percent less likely to suffer memory problems. The key, advise the experts, is not to stick with the same crossword puzzle for years. Instead, try something new. As Steelsmith puts it: “Use it or lose it.” Lisa Marshall is a freelance health writer headquartered near Boulder, CO. Connect at Lisa@LisaAnnMarshall.com.

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or else believe we can do even more because we practice self-care. Keep in mind that we can’t solve burnout with the same level of consciousness that created it. We have to catch ourselves in the act of overlooking our true needs, stop, do a selfinquiry that looks at things as they are, and pinpoint what drains our energy, as well as what brings us to life.

The Benefits of Burnout An oxymoron? Not according to psychologist Joan Borysenko.

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oan Borysenko, Ph.D., a pioneer in integrative medicine, is a renowned expert on the mind-body connection. Her work has been foundational in an international health care revolution that recognizes the role of meaning and the spiritual dimension of life as integral aspects of health and healing. Most recently, the Harvard-trained biologist and psychologist explored the anatomy of burnout with Facebook friends in her latest book, Fried: Why You Burn Out and How to Revive.

What does it mean to physically, emotionally and spiritually burn out? When you’re stressed out, you keep chasing the same old carrot, whatever that may be for you. But when you’re burned out, you eventually give up the chase. The hope that you can create a meaningful life fizzles and you find yourself sitting in the ashes of your dreams. In a culture wedded to positive thinking, burnout and its first cousin, depression, are thought of as disorders in need of a fix. What if instead, we see them as losses of naïveté, false identities and faulty assumptions that are making way for a more authentic life? What if we viewed burnout as an invitation to come into alignment with a more elegant expression of our gifts, relationships and overall life energy? The late psychologist Herbert Freudenberger, Ph.D., who first popularized the concept in his 1980 book, Burnout: The High Cost of High Achievement, believed the condition is a painful affliction of good people trying to give their very best. He defined it as “the extinction of motivation or incentive, especially where one’s devo-

tion to a cause or relationship fails to produce the desired results.”

Why do we burn out even when we regularly use selfcare practices? Many people are shocked to learn that even though I’m a positive person, with a regular yoga and meditation practice, as well as healthy eating habits, I have burned out more than once. Ironically, but predictably, I was trying to do and be my best. For me, burnout means that my most loving, creative self goes missing; I contract into the smallest, most negative version of myself, which is not a pretty picture. I find that for many people that intellectualize a great portion of their lives, burnout doesn’t become real until they are not only physically, mentally and emotionally exhausted, but are also in pain. Knowing ourselves and our limitations is essential, because our tendency is to become complacent and think we’re too busy to tend to our well-being, natural awakenings

In order to follow my own advice, I completely changed the way I live. I realized that at age 66, I needed to pay more attention to my physical body. Physical therapy and Pilates floor exercises are now a priority five days a week, as well as yoga, both of which have helped to correct my hip joint problems. For aerobic exercise, I walk fast for 45 minutes at least five days a week. In inclement weather, I ride an indoor bike. Altogether, it averages out to 90 minutes of daily exercise, five days a week. My husband and I switched to a plant-based diet of organic whole foods, so we now set aside more time to plan, shop and cook. We also make more time for family and friends. We still both work, but fewer hours than before. In other words, I do what I can within a framework of love. I choose to do what is important to me—activities that give me life and energy.

What is it about living “in the now” that feels so enlivening? When we live in our heads and intellectualize, we tend to spin negative thoughts that hurt our physical health and sap our energy. By actively focusing on what we are doing in the moment, we can engage our senses, more thoroughly enjoy ourselves and have an awareness of being that is not possible when we are ruminating over past memories or projecting ourselves into daydreams about a far-off future. In such present moments, because we are relaxed and open to our inner wisdom, as well as our interconnection with the exquisite wholeness of life, we feel the most vital and alive. Connect at JoanBorysenko.com and Facebook.com/pages/Joan-Borysenko/ 211406562428. February 2012

healingways

Be Direct and Follow-Up

HOW CAN WE ALL

GET ALONG? Resolving conflict benefits mind and body. by lisa shumate

“A

significant amount of wearand-tear on the body comes from prolonged unresolved conflict—from not letting go, holding grudges and reliving situations over and over in your head,” says Raj Dhasi, a Torontobased conflict management consultant who specializes in the physiological impacts of conflict. “But if conflict happens and my mindset is: ‘I can handle this. We can work through this,’ that is phenomenally beneficial for the brain and body.” Dhasi explains that when faced with any conflict—whether it’s an angry boss, disgruntled neighbor, political opponent or untidy teen in the house—our limbic system responds swiftly by igniting a cascade of stress hormones like adrenaline and cortisol and spiking our heart rate and blood pressure. Meanwhile, our prefrontal cortex—the part of the brain responsible for thinking things through and putting the brakes on emotional, irrational behaviors—begins to slowly light up. The fundamental problem is that in the race to mount a response, the limbic system often wins, prompting us to greet conflict impulsively by raising our voice and saying things we later regret before our rational brain has time to step in. On the flip side, many of us avoid conflict altogether, harboring discontent in such a way that we feel powerless or even threatened. Making matters worse, our fight-or-flight response never quite

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goes away, says Gary Harper, author of The Joy of Conflict Resolution: Transforming Victims, Villains and Heroes in the Workplace and at Home. “More people are stressed out by not dealing with a conflict than with dealing with it,” Harper observes. “If you deal with it in the moment, it allows you to let it go.”

Pause, Breathe, Consider Harper advises that one way to deal with conflict on the spot is to pause and give our more rational side a chance to arrive at a solution. “Before you react, slow down, take a deep breath and listen to your inner dialogue,” he says. “In that deep breath, you might realize that you need five minutes [to consider a response].” If you still remain in attack mode, it might not be the best time to respond. He adds that while no conflict should be avoided altogether, careful consideration might lead us to conclude that some battles aren’t worth fighting. Ask yourself: How important is this person to me? How important is this issue to me? “If neither is vital to you, save your energy for a better use. If the issue is not important, but the relationship is, it’s okay to accommodate or give in sometimes,” he says.

Some conflicts are worth confronting. Then, Barbara Pachter, a business communications consultant and author of The Power of Positive Confrontation, offers what she calls the WAC approach for dealing with most cases of work and family conflict. W: Ask yourself: What is really bothering me? “A lot of times, people don’t do this. They just say, ‘This person is a jerk,’ rather than specifying the problem.” A: Ask them for a solution. “We often complain, but we don’t identify a solution,” she says. “Determine what is going to solve the problem for you and ask for it.” C: Check in. “Turn it over to the other person and ask for their response. Inquire: ‘Is this possible? What do you think?’” All the while, stay curious about the other person’s perspective, suggests Harper. “We tend to see ourselves as the innocent victim, or we go into hero mode and tend to see the other person as the villain,” he says. “Of course, the other person is doing the same thing, and that makes collaboration tough.” Instead, ask sincere questions—and really listen.

Agree to Disagree Terrie McCants, coordinator of the conflict resolution program at Kansas State University, notes that in some cases, especially when deeply held values such as politics or faith are involved, resolving conflict isn’t necessarily about reaching an agreement. “You cannot negotiate people’s values. Sometimes, these are things that people are willing to lie down and die for,” she says. “Instead, sometimes you might need to agree to disagree.” In the end, whether the conflict is a minor disagreement at home, a workplace quarrel or a complicated political dispute, the process of properly working through it can leave both parties feeling stronger and improve their communities. “Conflict forces you to problem-solve collaboratively and come up with options and elegant solutions,” she explains. “If handled well, it can add brilliant things to your life.” Lisa Shumate is a freelance writer in Boulder, CO.

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fitbody

Exercise to Beat the Blues

Staying Active Lifts Our Spirits by Priscilla Goudreau-Santos

Although exercise may feel like the last thing you want to do when you are feeling blue, it’s a sure way to climb out of the morass and achieve a brighter outlook, higher energy levels and good heart health.

“I

n winter months, people get sluggish in many ways, and the resulting buildup of toxins can make them feel achy. They often interpret their fatigue and tension as depression, but that’s not necessarily so,” says Carolyn Dean, a pioneering physician, naturopath, nutritionist and author, with 25 years of experience treating diet and health issues. “The best, most natural way to pull toxins out of the body is through movement,” she advises. Becoming active is a good way to both lift depression and promote overall health, including a healthy heart, one of the largest and most vital muscles in the body. Getting off the couch often begins by identifying what you enjoy and will be most likely to continue doing. Setting reasonable goals is important. If you haven’t exercised in awhile or feel guilty for taking time out of an already busy day, try starting with a five-minute workout, and then increase the duration as you get stronger and feel better. Dean suggests that one good way to start is by walking and using a

pedometer, or climbing stairs with a step-counter (10,000 steps a day is a reachable goal). You can make a game of competing against yourself. Invite friends to walk with you or create your own walking club to help stay on track with a cardio-exercise routine. Walking your dog or borrowing a neighbor’s pooch for a stroll around the neighborhood is fun. Inject additional movement into daily routines via gardening, washing the car or playing with children.

Multiple Benefits Although the scientific links between exercise and reduced anxiety and depression aren’t entirely known, it is clear that working out can help anyone relax and feel better. The Mayo Clinic reports that exercise helps ease depression by releasing feel good brain chemicals in the body; reducing immune system chemicals; increasing body temperature; boosting self-confidence; taking thoughts off of worries; and promoting social interaction, thus equipping individuals to better cope with life’s ups and downs. natural awakenings

“Exercise is sometimes stigmatized as an activity that’s hot, sticky and not fun,” notes Jess Martin, a wellness coordinator with the nationwide network of Healthstat, Inc. clinics, headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina. “We encourage our participants to instead think of exercise as fun. Running, lifting weights and other fitness activities certainly get your heart pumping, but so can less intense forms of exercise. While we encourage everyone to have 30-minute workouts, you can also benefit from shorter intervals, such as two 15-minute or even three 10-minute sessions a day.” As Martin notes, people that work out with a buddy are more likely to be accountable to an exercise routine. Strengthening healthy social bonds reduces stresses at the same time. “When you don’t exercise, the muscles of the body and the heart atrophy, he says. The more you exercise, the lower the heart rate tends to become, and the more efficient the heart function.”

Daily Do “Daily exercise should be as much a part of your routine as meals,” counsels Dr. Gabriela Cora, vice-chair of the Council on Communications for the American Psychiatric Association, author, wellness and well-being coach and former researcher in mood and anxiety disorders at the National Institutes of Health. “This is even truer for busy people, because so many these days are sedentary; everyone needs to find a balance for any lack of energy flow.” She points out that while many tend to think of exercise as a hobby, it is really one of the four pillars of biological health—sleep, relaxation, nutrition and exercise. Note: Consult with a physician for advice about what exercise and level of intensity is best for you. If you exercise regularly, but anxiety or depression symptoms still interfere with daily life, follow up with a doctor or other qualified mental health provider. Priscilla Goudreau-Santos is a freelance writer and owner of Priscilla Goudreau Public Relations and Marketing, in Jacksonville, FL. Connect at 904-371-7751. February 2012

consciouseating IMPROVE YOUR SNOOZE

Sleep Aids versus Sleep Sappers by Judith Fertig

an eating a whole-wheat peanut butter cracker or sipping tart cherry juice help us sleep? Either is certainly worth a try, because most of us aren’t getting enough shut-eye. According to the nonprofit National Sleep Foundation, 64 percent of America’s adults frequently experience sleep problems; nearly half wake up at least once during the night. This deficit of restorative rest can affect our health. “Lack of sleep can affect the immune system,” says Dr. Timothy Morgenthaler, of the Mayo Clinic Sleep Disorders Center and an officer of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine. “Studies show that people that don’t get a good night’s sleep or don’t get enough sleep are more likely to get sick after being exposed to a virus, such as the common cold.” A concept called sleep hygiene refers to good health practices that promote sleep. For example: Is the room dark or quiet enough? Is the mattress comfortable? Have we allowed sufficient time to wind down after daily activities to become relaxed? What we eat or drink also can have a profound effect on getting a good night’s rest.

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654 E Main St Owosso MI 48867 Mon, Tue, Wed: 9:30-5:30 Thu, Fri: 9:30-6:00 Sat: 9:30-5:00 Sun: 12:30-3:30 Phone: 989-723-1363 Email: GoodEnergy7@gmail.com

Genesee, Lapeer & Shiawassee, MI

Sleep Sappers Physicians, naturopaths and nutritionists generally agree that these key factors delay or disrupt sleep. Food and drink. According to Jamie Corroon, a naturopathic physician with Seattle’s Bastyr University, eating or drinking too much during the day may make us less comfortable when settling down to sleep. Also, spicy foods may cause heartburn, which can lead to difficulty falling asleep and discomfort during the night. Caffeine. “Caffeine’s stimulant effect peaks in about one hour, and then declines as the liver breaks it down. So, if you go to bed by 11 p.m., you’ll have to stop your caffeine intake by 2 or 3 p.m. to avoid insomnia,” advises bestselling author Joy Bauer, a registered dietitian and nutritionist in New York City. She also cautions about energy drinks that incorporate herbal caffeine that may include guarana seeds, kola nuts and yerba mate leaves. Nightcaps. Although many people think of alcohol as a sedative, it actually disrupts sleep, according to experts at the National Sleep Foundation.

Sleep Aids What helps us sleep may be either a food’s chemical prop-

SUGGESTED SLEEP SUPPLEMENTS Both valerian and melatonin have good scientific evidence backing them up as natural sleep aids, advises Sharon Plank, an integrative medicine physician with the University of Pittsburgh Medical School’s Center for Integrative Medicine. If the problem is falling asleep, the sedative effects of a valerian supplement can help. Because it has few adverse effects, it’s safe to try as a sleep aid, Plank says. If the problem is disrupted sleep, melatonin can help, and comes in two forms— extended release and immediate release. Plank notes, “If you tend to wake up in the middle of the night, you may want to take extended release before you go to bed. If you have trouble falling asleep, try immediate release.” If the problem is waking too early or restless leg syndrome, the problem could be a mineral deficiency. Studies conducted by the U.S. Department of Agriculture found that copper, iron and magnesium deficiencies caused sleep issues with some subjects; the studies specify recommended daily supplementation of copper (2 mg), iron (10 to 15 mg) and magnesium (400 mg).

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erties or the psychological and physical comfort we associate with a certain food or drink. Options include some old reliables. Walnuts and tart cherry juice. Studies conducted by the University of Texas Health Science Center, in San Antonio, and published in the Journal of Medicinal Food found that these two foods are great sources of melatonin, a natural hormone that helps regulate sleep cycles. Tart cherry juice was found to be especially effective in reducing the time it took subjects to fall asleep. Herbs. According to the Center for Integrative Medicine at the University of Maryland, in Baltimore, some herbs have a mild, sedative effect. Three traditional herbs used for sleep are valerian, German chamomile and passionflower. The European practice of sipping a warm tisane, or herbal tea, made from these ingredients can be warming and soothing, preparing us to sleep. These herbs are also available as supplements. Complex carbohydrates. “Enjoy a bedtime snack,” recommends Bauer, of about 200 calories or less; mainly complex carbohydrates, with a touch of protein, such as some banana with peanut butter, yogurt or a small amount of whole grain cereal with skim milk. “By combining an ample dose of carbohydrates together with a small amount of protein—such as yogurt or turkey— containing the amino acid tryptophan, your brain produces serotonin, known as a calming hormone.” A warm, milky drink. Research scientists at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology concluded that the chemical properties of milk—mainly protein and tryptophan—were not enough to ensure a good night’s sleep (American Journal of Clinical Nutrition). However, sleep and wellness expert Anna de Vena, who writes for SleepWellFeel Great.com, observes, “I love curling up with any kind of warm milky drink before bed, especially in the wintertime. There is a calming association with warm milk and sleep… from the time we were infants, when we drank milk and went to sleep.” Judith Fertig celebrates healthy food at AlfrescoFoodAndLifestyle.blogspot.com.

inspiration

WABI SABI LOVE Embracing Imperfections in Relationships by Arielle Ford

he ancient Japanese friend and partner—during art form of Wabi Sabi the good, the bad and honors all things old, everything in-between. We shift our choices weathered, worn and imIt starts when we permanent by perceiving shift our perception from “what I want,” the beauty in imperfecand see our mate’s to what is tions. It discovers grace behavior through a in things modest, humble gentler and kinder ultimately best for and unconventional. lens of mutual respect the relationship. Wabi Sabi love is and lightheartedness. the art and practice of apResearch by Psychologist preciating the quirks and Sandra Murray, Ph.D., at the imperfections in our self and University of Buffalo, reveals our partner. Listening with our that donning “rose-colored glasses” heart, we come to see with it, and idealizing our partner leads to too. Discerning the hidden dance more happiness and satisfaction in between partners brings emotional a relationship, and that the happiest maturity to our relationships as we shift couples focus on what’s right. In what our focus from what’s wrong to what’s is known as the Pygmalion effect, the right. This new, true view deeply bonds greater the expectation placed upon us and is a key to everlasting love—and people, the better they perform. any harmonious relationship. Keeping an open heart and mind Spiritual teacher David Deida also prepares us to receive our partner’s counsels, “Practicing love often best expectations and highest level of means… surrendering all hold on the caring, even if it might seem different familiar act you call ‘me.’” By choosing than what we expect. When we choose to turn everyday conflict into comto lovingly accept each other, let go of passion, we cultivate a more loving issues and apologize for any wrongdorelationship through humor, listening, ing, it transforms the relationship. intimacy and generosity, even when Overall, we better appreciate someone is acting out, refusing to listen the bigger picture and go from being or shutting down. annoyed to enjoyed! Acceptance and its counterpart, understanding, are crucial to achieving Bestselling author Arielle Ford is a relationship harmony. It’s the highleader in the personal growth and est form of love and, like most things contemporary spirituality movement. worth striving for, requires patience, Her new release is Wabi Sabi Love commitment, personal responsibility, (WabiSabiLove.com). Subscribe to a playfulness and practice. Imagine how free Soulmate Secret newsletter at great it is to feel loved all the time by a ArielleFord.com. natural awakenings

February 2012

calendarofevents

SATuRdAy, FeBRuARy 11

NOTE: All calendar events must be received via our online submission form by the 12th of the month and adhere to our guidelines. No phone or fax submissions, please. Visit mhlas.com/calendar to submit online.

WedNeSdAy, FeBRuARy 1 Biodiversity live! - 7:30-9pm. Presented by the Organization for Bat Conservation Explore the amazing variety of wildlife on planet Earth. Discover the interconnectedness between plants and animals. FREE. Sponsored by: Wild Ones, North Oakland Chapter. ClarkSton St. Daniel Church Cushing Center, 7010 Valley Park Drive. Laura 248-454-6300.

THuRSdAy, FeBRuARy 2 hCg & Weight loss - 6-8 pm. Learn how thousands of people have lost 30 pounds in 30 days and kept it off. Learn the many benefits of human chorionic gonadotropin and what it can do for you. Taught by Rebekah’s Health and Nutrition Source. Cost $25 Mott Community Education, laPeer, 810-667-6546. See ad page 15.

SATuRdAy, FeBRuARy 4 reversing diabetes in 30 days - 1-4pm. Follow 6 diabetics who change their diet in this incredible documentary. Q&A & food demo following film. Includes free admission to Troy Health Expo. $25. Niles Center, 201 West Square Lake Road, troy. Deb Klungle 248-497-4189. health & Wellness expo - 2-5pm. Speak with health & wellness professionals at this Troy Continuing Education event. Free classes, demos & samples available throughout the afternoon. $5. Niles Center, 201 West Square Lake Road, troy. Dawn Wyatt 248-823-5180. loud Creek Cross Country Ski trip - 10:30am. Join others cross-country skiing at Loud Creek in Mio. Contact Hike Leader if interested in carpooling from the Clio carpool lot at 8:00 am. Denny Crispell 989-624-5038. energetic healings - 10am-2pm. Half hour energy healings based on Embodied Meditation, for releasing anxiety, fear, depression, fatigue; resolving relationships, increasing energy. Donation $20. 28592 Orchard Lake Rd, 301, farMington hillS. Abbe Grossman, MA 248-470-5738.

SuNdAy, FeBRuARy 5 vegMichigan Superbowl Sunday vegan Potluck & Jewelry Swap - 6-11pm. Something for the guys and the ladies: Following the vegan potluck dinner buffet, recycle your jewelry and accessories by swapping them out for something new...or enjoy Superbowl football with optional card and board games. Cost: Bring a vegan dish to pass. VegMichigan member home, troy. Details/ address: 877-778-3464.

MONdAy, FeBRuARy 6 autism hope alliance aha heroes™offering aha Meet ups - 6:30–7:30pm. Topic: Cutting Edge Therapies for Sensory Integration. Join one of the AHA Heroes™ Heidi Scheer, National Speaker and Autism Advocate, for her 3rd installment in a series of free lectures for those in the autism community.

Genesee, Lapeer & Shiawassee, MI

FREE. RSVP by calling the Whole Foods Market, troy, MI at 248-649-9600.

TueSdAy, FeBRuARy 7 feng Shui 2 - 6-8 pm. Intermediate Feng Shui. Cost $25 Mott Community Education, laPeer, 810-667-6546. detox Program info Session - 7-8pm. Cleanse, nourish & rebuild yourself at a cellular level. Learn the details of the Nourished Body Detox Program in this free informational session. FREE. Heal Yourself Institute, 513 West 5th Street, royal oak. Deb Klungle 248-497-4189.

WedNeSdAy, FeBRuARy 8 detox Program info Session - 7pm. Cleanse, nourish & rebuild yourself at a cellular level. Learn the details of the Nourished Body Detox Program in this free informational session. FREE. Heal Yourself Institute, 513 West 5th Street, royal oak. Deb Klungle 248-497-4189. Sierra Club Board Meeting - Followed by Club Program at 7:30. (open to the public). oin us in learning more about the environment.Mott Community College: Genesee Rm./Prahl College Center. 1401 E. Court Street, flint. Denny Crispell; 989-624-5038, or Mike Haley: 810-6866354.

THuRSdAy, FeBRuARy 9 autism Spectrum disorders - 6-8pm. Lecture with Dr. Megan Strauchman. Mott Community Education, laPeer. 810-667-6546.

FRIdAy, FeBRuARy 10 Second friday artwalk - 6:30pm, doors open at 6. Buckham Gallery. 1 Mile. Meet other Sierra Club members as we view art, walk to the Greater Flint Arts Council and other venues. Buckham Gallery, 134-1/2 W. Second Street, flint. Mike Haley 810-686-6354. Meditation group - 7-9pm. For those just beginning with meditation as well as those who have had prior experience. Fun and great way to relax, build personal awareness and socialize. Discussion opportunity after as well as refreshments.Love donation. RSVP to April Shackelford at 810-4237577 for lake orion location.

markyourcalendar SATuRdAy, FeBRuARy 11

Wellness, Purpose & Abundance Conference - 9 a.m. -5 p.m. Discover holistic approaches to health issues: Bolstering the Immune System and Breaking the Code to Pain / Inﬂammation. Cost: $25 Early Registration; or $30@door. Sponsored by Vibrant Health Solutions (a Young Living Essential Oils Independent Distributor). Location: New Haven Field House, 5213 Linden Road, SWARTZ CREEK. Contact: Irene Marz, 810691-1317. See ad page 29.

flint urban hike - 10am. 1 mile. Start your morning at the Flint Farmer's Market and join walkers for a nice urban walk through trails that connect to parks. Meet near the north doors (side closest to the river) table inside the Market. Flint Farmers Market, 420 E. Boulevard, flint. Mike Haley 810-686-6354. Mount holly Ski - 1pm. Enjoy the season by downhill skiing at Mt. Holly. No pets allowed. Fee for lift tickets. Mt. Holly Ski Resort, 1356 Dixie Highway, holly. Denny Crispell 989-624-5038.

SuNdAy, FeBRuARy 12 Preschool nature Club - The Valentine Bears 1pm. Celebrate Valentine’s Day with a Valentine’s story, craft, snacks and a nature walk. Make a Valentine’s treat to hang at your home outside and see who visits! Ages 3 to 6, accompanied by an adult. $3 per child. Preregister. Lake St. Clair Metropark Nature Center, Mount CleMenS, please call 586-463-4332.

MONdAy, FeBRuARy 13 empowered Childbirth! - 7pm. Join HypnoBirthing parents Janice & Will Rex-Weaver of Peaceful Birthing, as they explore how visualization and relaxation will bring the birth you desire. Find out how fear affects labor and intensifies sensations. FREE. Whole Foods, roCheSter hillS. 248-371-1400.

TueSdAy, FeBRuARy 14 Couple’s Massage - 6-9 pm. Explore massage techniques designed for a great at-home massage. Bring blankets and pillows. Cost $25 per person. Mott Community Education, laPeer. 810-6676546.

WedNeSdAy, FeBRuARy 15 healing heart disease w/ food - 7-8pm. Learn how to have a healthy cardiovascular system naturally. Cooking demo & recipes included. This class is offered through Troy Continuing Education. $25. Larson Middle School, 22222 East Long Lake Road, troy. Deb Klungle 248-497-4189.

THuRSdAy, FeBuARy 16 What is your aura? - 10am-12pm. Come explore the aura, what the layers mean, colors, and emotions. Get an Aura photograph and detailed report. $20. Lotus Healing Arts Center, 6015 W. Pierson Rd, fluShing. Jamie Brandow 810-874-1759. See ad page 30. detox Program info Session - 7-8pm. Cleanse, nourish & rebuild yourself at a cellular level. Learn the details of the Nourished Body Detox Program in this free informational session. FREE. Heal Yourself Institute, 513 West 5th Street, royal oak. Deb Klungle 248-497-4189.

SATuRdAy, FeBRuARy 18 Communicating with love - 7-9:30pm. Discover how your beliefs about love, intimacy and sexuality affect your relationships, sexual satisfaction, marriage, body image and ability to find love. In this workshop, you'll have the opportunity to connect with others through verbal sharing and exercises designed to open your heart. FREE.

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Southfield. Contact Maureen (Mo) or John Fritz 734-523-8566 to RSVP and for directions. Making Peace with Food Class - 10am-12pm. Can't stop thinking about food, overeating and then dieting? Succeed with "non-diet" approach, including mindfulness meditation and energy work. Donation $10.00 suggested. Making Peace with Food, 28592 Orchard Lake Road, Ste 301, Farmington Hills. Abbe Grossman.MA 248-470-5738.

Monday, February 20 Detox Program Info Session - 7-8pm. Cleanse, nourish & rebuild yourself at a cellular level. Learn the details of the Nourished Body Detox Program in this free informational session. FREE. Heal Yourself Institute, 513 West 5th Street, Royal Oak. Deb Klungle 248-497-4189.

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 21 Dowsing and Pendulum Basics - 6-8 pm. Use a pendulum and dowsing rods to obtain answers to questions, find missing objects, or underground water. Cost $25 Mott Community Education, LAPEER, 810-667-6546. Tibetan Heart Yoga - 6:30-7:30pm. Combines postures and compassion meditation together in a flowing sequence from the inside out. We begin with tonglen meditation where you visualize taking away the pain of a loved one and then sending them gifts of generosity, kindness, patience, joy, stillness, and wisdom. $15. Rochester Holistic Arts, 118 Terry Ave., Rochester. Kim Leshley 248-895-5064.

Wednesday, February 22 Is your make up toxic? - 5-6pm. Learn what toxic ingredients are in most personal care and beauty products and how to make safer choices for you and your family. FREE. ABC Wellness Center, 37300 Dequindre Rd. Ste 102, Sterling Heights. Anne Baker 248-891-5215. Intro to Raindrop Therapy - 7-8pm. Learn how These oils also provide relief from common colds, fibromyalgia, arthritis, skin disorders and more. In this session you will enjoy earthly aromatics of oregano, thyme, basil, cypress, wintergreen, marjoram, and peppermint. FREE. Rochester Holistic Arts, 118 Terry Ave, Rochester. Kim Leshley 248-895-5064.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 23 Energy Breathing - 6-8 pm. Conscious breathing technique will help focus your mind and reduce anxiety. Cost $25 Mott Community Education, LAPEER, 810-667-6546. Asthma and Respiratory Problems - 7pm. Come to this workshop to learn effective and natural ways to improve Asthma. You will also learn to regulate or eliminate steroid medication that are involved with these conditions. Whole Foods Market 7350 Orchard Lake Rd, West Bloomfield. Info: 248-626-0001. Asthma and Respiratory Problems - 7pm. Come to this worâ&#x20AC;&#x2018;kshop to learn effective and natural ways to improve your Asthma. You will also learn to regulate or possibly even eliminate the need for steroid medication that is involved

with these conditions. FREE. Whole Foods West Bloomfield. 248-538-4600.

Friday, February 24 Meditation Group - 7-9pm. For those just beginning with meditation as well as those who have had prior experience. Fun and great way to relax, build personal awareness and socialize. Discussion opportunity after as well as refreshments.Love donation. RSVP to April Shackelford at 810-4237577 for Lake Orion location.

Saturday, February 25 Wellness Fair - 11am-6pm. Chair Massage, Acupuncture, Reflexology, Aura Photos, FREE BioMat Demo's. Door Prizes to the 1st 20 people! $3. Lotus Healing Arts Center, 6015 W Pierson Rd Ste 3, Flushing. Jamie Brandow 810-874-1759. See ad page 30. Maple Sweetness - 12:30 & 3pm. Sun. also. Discover how to recognize a maple, how to put a tap on the tree, how to turn the sap into syrup, as well as make maple crafts, explore historic methods, watch commercial methods and sample different syrups. $5/adult, $3/child. Historic Center of Wolcott Mill Metropark in Ray Township. 586-749-5997.

Sunday, February 26 Learn to Crochet, Part 2 - 2-3:30pm. Learn how to become comfortable with them basic tools involved to crochet simple patterns. Also understand how to read beginners crochet patterns. Materials provided. $25. Rochester Holistic Arts, 118 Terry

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February 2012

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Ave, roCheSter. Kim Leshley 248-895-5064. Juicing for health with anca - 7-8pm. Learn about juicing's powerful benefits & sample fresh delicious juices. Anca will also share her incredible story about healing herself from cancer. $10. Heal Yourself Institute, 513 West 5th Street, royal oak. Anca Iordachianu 248-625-9775.

ongoingevents NOTE: All calendar events must be received via our online submission form by the 12th of the month and adhere to our guidelines. No phone calls or faxes, please. Visit mhlas.com/calendar to submit online.

TueSdAy, FeBRuARy 28 anthropological aromatherapy - 6-8 pm. A look at essential oil use through the ages. Cost $25. Mott Community Education, laPeer, 810-667-6546. Shade gardening - 6:30-8:30 pm. Learn which plants to use for the most impact in your shady areas. Cost $25 Mott Community Education, laPeer, 810-667-6546.

WedNeSdAy, FeBRuARy 29 detox Program info Session - 7-8pm. Cleanse, nourish & rebuild yourself at a cellular level. Learn the details of the Nourished Body Detox Program in this free informational session. FREE. Heal Yourself Institute, 513 West 5th Street, royal oak. Deb Klungle 248-497-4189. live & dry Blood analysis - 7-8:30pm. A Microscopic Journey into Your Living Blood. Learn how and why blood changes and reflects our state of health and how Nutritional Microscopy can educate, motivate and support us on the path of wellness. FREE. Rochester Holistic Arts, 118 Terry Ave, roCheSter. Kim Leshley 248-895-5064.

WedNeSdAy, MARCH 7 Beginning Chefs - 6:30-8pm. Hands on for kids 5+. Interest your kids in healthy eating by having them make their own food. Easy recipes provided. Parents attend (& eat!) free. $25. Larson Middle School, 2222 East Long Lake Road, troy. Deb Klungle 248-497-4189.

Creating a World that Works for all - 10am celebration of Spirit: music, laughter, meditation, inspiration, spiritual community. Making a difference by being the change we wish to see. Peace Unity Church & Holistic Center, 8080A Ortonville Road, ClarkSton. Bookstore, Offices and Holistic Center, 248-625-5192. Spiritual gathering - 11am. The Center of Light Spirituality Center. All welcome. Relaxed, retreat type setting, interesting topics, loving experiences, meditation, healing, 5898 Baldwin Rd, oXford. 248-236-0432.

yoga - 12pm Yin Yoga, 6:30pm Power Yoga. Soothe Your Soul, oXford. Info: Hannah 248-236-9855.

gentle yoga - 7pm. Great class for beginners, plussized, seniors, pregnant or anyone needing a more therapeutic approach to their practice. $12. Jewels Yoga & Fitness, 7355 Hall Rd, daviSBurg. Jules 248-390-9270.

foundational yoga - 10-11am. Energize and relax your mind, body, spirit and heart. $8. Michigan Rehabiliation Specialists, 10860 Highland Rd, hartland. Tanya 810-623-4755.

flow yoga - 7pm. Also Wed-6:15pm & Thu9:30am. Great for the fit individual wanting to experience a blend of classic yoga combined with asana flow & breath. $12. Jewels Yoga & Fitness, 7355 Hall Rd, daviSBurg. Jules 248-390-9270.

Slow flow yoga with noreen daly Cyt - 5:45pm. Mondays also. For beginners to intermediate, this class provides a gentle pace of moving from one posture to the next. You will feel invigorated, strengthened, lengthened and focused. First class free, $8/class or 6 class rates. Peace Unity Holistic Center, 8080A Ortonville Road, ClarkSton. 248-625-5192. flow yoga - 6:15 pm. Great class for those new to Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga system. $12. Jewels Yoga & Fitness, 7355 Hall Rd, daviSBurg. Jules 248-390-9270.

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tai Chi Chuan Classes - 6:30-8pm. Enjoy the calm, centered, relaxed state of moving meditation. Mind leads, body follows. Reunite with your personal power and learn to direct your energy. $15. Orchid Leaf Energy Arts, 2290 East Hill Rd #202, grand BlanC. Dawn Fleetwood 810-235-9854.

TueSdAyS

The question is not whether we will die, but how we will live.

gentle yoga, with rev. Matthew - 10am. Thursdays also. A spiritual, mental and physical practice for developing and tapping inner energy and awareness. Please bring a practice mat or towel. Free-will Love-offerings will be received. Peace Unity Holistic Center, 8080A Ortonville Road, ClarkSton, 248-625-5192.

Tai Chi Classes - 6:30-7:30pm. Thru 2/21 and 2/28-4/24 (With 4/3 off). Slow, graceful and rhythmic exercise, which originated in china. It is often referred to as meditation in movement or swimming in air and combines deep breathing, relaxation, concentration and slow, gentle, structured movement to exercise the body and mind and strengthen one's internal energy. Wear warm soaks or Tai Chi shoes and comfortable clothes. Taught by Eric Scott, 22 years experience. 8 classes/$80 or call for drop-in rates. KMAI, 935 Baldwin Rd, LAPEER. Janet 810-667-2101. See ad inside back cover.

~Joan Borysenko Blended yoga - 9:30am. Great class for all levels combining classic yoga teachings w/asana. Some days we take it easy and other days we move a bit more. $12. Jewels Yoga & Fitness, 7355 Hall Rd, daviSBurg. Jules 248-390-9270.

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WedNeSdAyS & FRIdAyS

Women's Only Workout - 6:30-7:30pm. Thru 3/9 and 3/14-5/18. Good for beginners all the way to advanced. Taught by Certified Black Belt Instructors, 10 years. Overall fitness classes that includes cardio, strengthening, stretching, Toning & TaeKwon Do. Punching & Kicking techniques. 20 classes/$80 or call for drop-in rates. KMAI, 935 Baldwin Rd, LAPEER. Janet 810-667-2101. See ad inside back cover.

flow yoga - 9:30am. A blend of classic yoga teachings inter-woven with asana flow and breath to help strengthen the mind, body & spirit. $12. Jewels Yoga & Fitness, 7355 Hall Rd, daviSBurg. Jules 248-390-9270. Special needs adaptive yoga - 4:30 pm -5:30 pm. Ages 10 to 15 attends class with caregiver. Begins

February 2012

Calendar A wonderful resource for filling your workshops, seminars and other events.

July 7 thru August. $8. The Yoga Loft & SHARP Fitness, 555 S. Saginaw St, flint. Lois Schneider 810-232-2210. tai Chi for health - 6:15-7:30pm. Certified instructor with 10 years' experience. All fitness levels welcome. 8 weeks/$10 class. $8/class student/senior. Healthy Happy Whole, 317 S Elm, oWoSSo. 989720-HEAL. See ad page 30. discover the Power Within you - 6:30pm. Book study & meditation with Rev. Matthew. Brief instruction & deep experience. Realize peace, wholeness and abundance in conscious unity with our Divine source. Free-will love offering will be received. Peace Unity Holistic Center, 8080A Ortonville Road, ClarkSton. 248-625-5192. alzheimer’s association Support group - 6:308pm. 4th Thur. Open to the public, free of charge and are attended by families, caregivers, and friends of persons with Alzheimer’s disease and other related dementia disorders. laPeer Library- Margurite D. Angeli Branch. FREE. Info: Amy DeNise 810732-8500. Basic yoga - 7pm. This class is a classic! Great for all levels; it's basic but with a challenge! $12. Jewels Yoga & Fitness, 7355 Hall Rd, daviSBurg. Jules 248-390-9270. health Seminars - 7-8pm. Different topics each week, with Dr. Dennis Benn. Call for weekly topics. FREE. Alternative Health and Rehab Centre, 2284 S Ballenger Hwy Ste F, flint. RSVP 810-235-5181. See ad page 18.

yoga fusion - 8am. Explore the 8 limbs of the Ashtanga practice infused with traditional, primary & secondary series postures. A warm, healthy practice available to all. Great for the self-motivated individual without limitations. $12. Jewels Yoga & Fitness, 7355 Hall Rd, daviSBurg. Jules 248-390-9270. gentle yoga - 10:15am. Great class for beginners, plus-sized, seniors or anyone needing a more therapeutic approach towards their practice. $12. Jewels Yoga & Fitness, 7355 Hall Rd, daviSBurg. Jules 248-390-9270.

Tai Chi/Qi Gung classes - 10am. This ancient art will help you improve balance, muscle tone, flexibility, posture, and balance. Great stress reliever! $8. Alternative Health and Rehab. Centre, G-2284 S Ballenger Hwy, FLINT. Dawei 810-2355181. See ad page 18.

Zumba - 12:15-1pm. Latin-inspired dance-fitness for weight loss and enhanced health. All levels welcome. $8 drop-in, $5 class cards, $4 student/ senior class cards. Healthy Happy Whole, 317 S Elm, OWOSSO. 989-720-HEAL. See ad page 30. Argentine Tango - 1:15-2:15pm. Experience the joy and health benefits of dance. Grab a partner or come solo. 6 wk class card $10/class. Student/senior clas card $9/class. The perfect Valentine’s Day surprise! Healthy Happy Whole, 317 S Elm, OWOSSO. 989720-HEAL. See ad page 30.

markyourcalendar THuRSdAyS

Two styles available: n Calendar of Dated Events: Designed for events on a specific date of the month. 50 words.

Beginner & Intermediate Ashtanga Yoga6-7:30pm. Thru 2/23 and 3/1-4/19. This class will work on discovering how movement and breath, working together, Will help open tight spots in the body. You may end up discovering some areas that haven’t moved in years. This class will help bring balance to the body. Available for all fitness levels. Bring your own mat and wear comfortable cloths.Taught by Chris Duncan, RYT 10 years. 8 classes/$80 or call for drop-in rates. KMAI, 935 Baldwin Rd, LAPEER. Janet 810-667-2101. See ad inside back cover.

To keep the body in good health is a duty... otherwise we shall not be able to keep our mind strong and clear.

n Calendar of Ongoing Events: Designed for recurring events that fall on the same day each week. 25 words.

For guidelines and our convenient online submission form, visit our website: MHLAS.com/Calendar

of East Michigan

248-628-0125 28

Genesee, Lapeer & Shiawassee, MI

Basic yoga - 9:30am. Great class for newbies! Learn the basics in a fun, casual atmosphere. $12. Jewels Yoga & Fitness, 7355 Hall Rd, daviSBurg. Jules 248-390-9270. Colon hydrotherapy - 6-7pm.Wth Dr. Dennis Benn. FREE. Alternative Health and Rehab Centre, 2284 S Ballenger Hwy Ste F, flint. RSVP 810235-5181. See ad page 18. essene health association Meetings - 7pm, second Friday, linden. Raw foods, sprouting, detox, live blood cell info & general health info is provided. Cost: $5 association membership fee required. Info/ register: 810-735-2575. See Center for Holistic Studies ad, page 6.

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~Buddha

Dentistry

naturaldirectory

David Ewing, DDS, LPC

Natural Networking at its best! Connecting you to the leaders in naturally healthy living in our community. To find out how you can be included in this directory each month, call 248-628-0125 or visit: NAeastMichigan.com.

Acupuncture Acupuncture

Clarissa Dawn Guest, RN, Dipl. Ac 2359 W. Shiawassee, Suite E, Fenton 810-750-2004

Transform your health with Acupuncture. Start feeling better today. Specializing in insomnia, depression, pain management, infertility, painful periods, menopause, headaches and migraines. Also offering Nutrienergetics™ and Neuromodulation Technique™.

café of life fenton

Dr. Erica Peabody, Chiropractor 521 North Leroy St., Fenton 810-629-6023

Serving the exceptional Chiropractic experience. The Café of Life® is a unique concept. A place that thinks radically different about health and provides an environment to practice. Visit our website: CafeOfLifeFenton.com.

Acupuncture & Herbal Clinic Michal Kelly L. Ac., Dipl. O.M. Kimberly Heneke, Massage Therapist 12272 Fenton Rd., Suite 3, Fenton 810-714-5556

Offering personalized natural health care that focuses on treating the root cause of illness, not just the symptom. A safe and effective alternative for children, adults and seniors. Specializing in infertility, pediatrics, internal medicine and pain management.

alternative health & Rehab centre, PLLC S. Ballenger Hwy, Flint • 810-235-5181

Certified Acupuncture with 8 years experience, David Birmingham. Chronic pain relief from many everyday issues without drug therapy. See ad page 18.

MICHIGAN ORIENTAL MEDICINE Acupuncture and Herbs Karen DeBruyn, PT, Dipl.OM 12809 S. Saginaw, Suite 206 Grand Blanc, 810-694-3500

Providing acupuncture and herbal medicine to optimize your health and wellness. Specializing in pain management, sports injuries, women's health, immune support, insomnia, and stress management.

Age does not protect you from love. But love, to some extent, protects you from age. ~Jeanne Moreau

chiropractic

Natural wellness & Pain Relief Centers

10683 S. Saginaw St., Ste B, Grand Blanc 810-694-3576 • NWPRC.com

Dr. Morningstar is the developer of the TornadoSuit and ARC3D Scoliosis Therapy. His treatment approach has already received national media attention for it's long-term effectiveness. Preventing scoliosis surgery in children, and maximizing pain relief function in adult scoliosis patients. See ad page 2.

colon hydrotherapy alternative health & Rehab centre, PLLC S. Ballenger Hwy, Flint • 810-235-5181

Advanced I-ACT certified Colon Hydro therapist available 3 days/wk. Water based cleansing of large intestines and colon's impacted waste. See ad page 18.

Counseling Shanti Counseling Services Theresa Callard-Moore, ACSW 6199 Miller Rd., Ste A, Swartz Creek 810-630-0904 ext. 2

Treating the whole person: Body mind & spirit. Holistic psychotherapy services including traditional counseling, EMDR, NET, Nutritional response testing, Reiki and more. ShantiCounseling.com

Craniosacral therapy

5516 Torrey Rd, Flint 810-232-2515

General Dentistry, including root canals, dentures, extractions, bridges, composite (white) fillings, crowns, TMJ, N.E.T. for pain control, anxiety and more. Nutrition and ZOOM teeth whitening. See ad page 7.

David W. Regiani, DDS, PC Holistic General Dentistry 101 South Street, Ortonville 248-627-4934 RegianiDental.com

Mercury and metal-free dental materials, non surgical perio treatment, Invisalign© Orthodontics, DDS weight-loss system, cosmetic dentistry and TMJ pain diagnosis & treatment. Over 25 years of providing dental services to the community. See ad page 17.

essential oils young living essential oils Irene Marz Independent Distributor 810-691-1317 HealthfulOils@gmail.com IreneMarz.VibrantScents.com

Yo u n g l i v i n g h a s specialized in growing, distilling & selling therapeutic-grade, organically-pure Essential Oils for over 20 years. Over 130 Essential Oils & Oil blends available for health & wellness, as well as essential oilenhanced nutritional supplements / products for kids, personal care, dental & home. Income opportunities also available.

When you fish for love, bait with your heart, not your brain. ~Mark Twain

health foods natures better way

880 W. Dryden Rd., Metamora 810-678-3131 or 800-894-3721 My4Life.com/NaturesBetterWay

We are helping "take Transfer Factor to the World." We also carry top quality herbal and nutritional supplements.

hypnotherapy

alternative health & Rehab centre, PLLC

guided touch • denae tait

alternative health & Rehab centre, PLLC

DR. BENN DC BA, 30 years in practice treating sports, family, chronic and non-responsive conditions. See ad page 18.

Pain/stress relief and more with Craniosacral therapy, aromatherapy and holistic nutrition. 11 years experience. See ad page 13.

Medical Hypnotherapist Jon Tomlinson, with 90% success rate. Helping with conditions: quit smoking, weight loss, golf and much more. See ad page 18.

S. Ballenger Hwy, Flint • 810-235-5181

Lapeer • 810-614-7582

natural awakenings

S. Ballenger Hwy, Flint • 810-235-5181

February 2012

integrative medicine HEALTHY HAPPY WHOLE, LLC

Integrative Medicine & Wellness Boutique Korina St. John, Dipl.OM, L.Ac Heather LaBrecque, Medical Massage 317 S Elm, Suite 202B, Owosso 5232 S Morrish Rd, Swartz Creek Memorial Outpatient Services, Owosso 989-720-HEAL • HealthyHappyWhole.com Wi t h o v e r 1 4 y e a r s experience in Integrative Medicine, Korina offers painless acupuncture and compassionate care for all ages. Treatment plans designed to meet your specific healthcare and financial needs.

Natural wellness & Pain Relief Centers

10683 S. Saginaw St., Ste B, Grand Blanc 810-694-3576 • NWPRC.com

Comprehensive treatment options to maximize your results. Bio-identical hormones, IV nutritionals, HcG weight loss, manipulation under anesthesia, decompression therapy, exercise with oxygen therapy, and cancer therapies. See ad page 2.

Center for Holistic studies & Practices, LLC

massage Deep tissue, Active Release, Prenatal, Myofacial, Shiatsu, Sports • 521 North Leroy St., Fenton

810-629-6023 • CafeOfLifeFenton.com

We strongly believe in integrating massage therapy into your healing and have a full massage staff to do just that. Warm, inviting, relaxing atmosphere condusive to healing and relaxation.

Deborah Weeks • 810-735-2575 114A S Bridge St, Linden

Rejuvenate, cleanse and detoxify the body, mind and spirit by choosing from alternative and preventative practices offered. Naturopathic Counselor, Certified Medical Massage, S c e n a r, M i c r o s c o p y, Biological Terrain, Ion Cleanse, Blanket Therapy and Ear Candling. See ad page 6.

Lotus Healing Arts Center

Medical spa Timeless Health & Beauty medical spa 810-724-0480 542 N. Cedar, Imlay City

A healthy body from the inside out. Bioidentical Hormone replacement, weight loss, intravenous nutritional support, vaser and smart lipo, botox, nonsurgical facelift, vericose veins and other services. See ad page 9.

6015 W Pierson Rd #3 Flushing • 810-874-1759 LotusHealers.com

A Holistic Approach to Health. Treating the body, mind, and soul. Offering Massage, Thai Yoga Massage, Reiki, Polarity Therapy, Quantum Touch, Readings, Reflexology, Acupuncture, Nutrition, and Workshops.

Organic Lawn Care Bio-Turf, LLC • 810-348-7547

Serving Genesee, Oakland & Livingston

Natural/Holistic Health I believe that a simple and unassuming manner of life is best for everyone, best both for the body and the mind. ~Albert Einstein

Alternative Health & Rehab Centre, PLLC 2284 S Ballenger Hwy, Ste F, Flint 810-235-5181 • www.AHRC.us

A diagnostic, treatment and research centre with a holistic, personal approach. Acupuncture, Chiropractic, sports rehab and exercise, massage, oxygen therapy, detox and more. See ad page 18.

classifieds LISTINGS: 3 lines (approx 22 words), 3 mo. minimum/prepaid: $69; 6 mo.: $119. Extra words: $1 ea/mo. Send check w/listing by 12th prior to publication to: Natural Awakenings Classifieds, Box 283, Oxford, MI 48371. Info: 248-628-0125. FOR RENT-VACATION WOULD YOU LIKE TO SIT BY THE WATER for a week in Naples, Florida? For details visit this website: www.vrbo.com/57189.

GREEN LIVING BE VEGAN/GREEN! Help save planet from destruction. Go to GodsDirectContact.org. View climate change flyer.

Discount programs NEW HEALTH DISCOUNT NETWORK. Natural Awakenings Network discount card for products and services related to health, fitness, nutrition and sustainability. Save money on the products and services you purchase in our community and

Genesee, Lapeer & Shiawassee, MI

Lawn/tree care program that offers organic-based fertilizers, Free lawn analysis. Visit Bio-Turf.com.

throughout markets in the US. For more information, visit: NADiscountCard.com.

Organic Foods Pastured chicken and grass-fed beef. www.SwartzOrganics.com rder now! Certified Organic 248-763-6477

Weight Loss Living waters wellness center Janie Jeffery, NHP, CCT 1009 Grange Hall Rd. • Fenton 810-252-4389 • LivingWaters4u.com

Introducing Deseret Biologicals patent-pending hA2cg Evolution homeopathic drops. Only through qualified practitioners. Works better than their original HCG formula. Guaranteed weight loss results when followed properly! Call for details.

Natural wellness & Pain Relief Centers

10683 S. Saginaw St., Ste B, Grand Blanc 810-694-3576 • NWPRC.com People under Dr. Strauchman's supervised HcG protocol are losing 20-30 pounds a month and keeping it off. Mention Natural Awakenings Directory and receive $50 off your HcG Program. See ad page 2.

Yoga/ Martial Arts Korean Martial Arts Institute

Yoga Enter A Journey Of Self Discovery And Transformation...Through Yoga and Life Enrichment Counseling. Brenda Weingartz, 4470 Huron, North Branch. 810-688-2900.

935 Baldwin Rd., Lapeer 810-667-2101 • KMAI.net

www.NAeastMichigan.com

Traditional TaeKwon-Do training for ages 5 through seniors. Adult enrichment classes in Yoga, Kick-fit and Women’s self-defense. Visit website for class schedule and offering. See ad next page.

Get Fit • Have Fun • Learn the Art of Self-Defense At the Korean Martial Arts Institute: • Every student actively participates in every class. • We reinforce character development & values that schools, parents & churches strive to role model, such as: Common courtesy, integrity, perseverance, teamwork, self-confidence, community service, & respect for authority. • We support academic pursuits. • Training is available for the whole family—5 years of age & older. • Memberships entitle one to attend an unlimited number of classes. • Morning, evening, & weekend classes are available (call for hours of operation). • We have served the Lapeer community for over 35 years.

First Class

FREE with this Ad!

Korean Martial Arts Institute

with this Ad! Stop in and give us a try!

Enrichment Classes: — Tai Chi - Tai Chi—-

Tuesday's Tuesdays

6:30-7:30pm 6:30-7:30pm 8 classes for $88 to 8 classes be used in 10 weeks for $80 or $13 drop in fee.

— Yoga —- Yoga

-- TaeKwon-Do TaeKown Do-Tues Sat Tues thru thru Sat

Womens'Only Only Women's Workout Workout

6-7:30pm 6:00-7:30pm 8 classes for $80 to 8 classes be used in 10 weeks for $80 or $12 drop in fee.

Various times times Various Ages 5 to Adult Ages 5 to adult Call for rates & times Call for info. 810-667-2101

6:30-7:30pm 10 classes for $40. 20Starts classes/$80 Nov. 2nd

Thursday's Thursdays

Wednesday's Wed & Sat 6:00-7:00pm

natural awakenings

February 2012

The

5th Annual

Michigan Healthy Living and Sustainability

g n i r sp

! h t l a e h o t In

po x E r & i a F h t l a e H FREE l a r u Admission! Nat Saturday, March 31, 2012 10 am to 5 pm

FREE Parking!

Genesys Conference Center 805 Health Park Blvd., Grand Blanc, MI* (next to the Genesys Athletic Club)

FREE Speakers!

• Speakers • Exhibits • Displays • Demonstrations • Samples register early to exhibit. don't miss ✽ your chance to be part of this special event! ✽ * For a map to the facilities, or to exhibit visit: