Natural Awakenings of Greater Lansing Michigan – January 2026

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Health & Wellness GREATER LANSING

January 2026 JANUARY 20261

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Wellness Center WYCOFF WELLNESS

John O. Wycoff, DO 1226 E Michigan Ave, East Lansing 517-333-7270 WycoffWellness.com

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We provide customized preventative care and lifestyle improvement plans for all patients. We focus on exploring natural solutions to many health problems or concerns, but do not abandon conventional medicine. We provide a blend of traditional and alternative care to help you achieve health and wellness naturally.

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Publisher ’s Letter

Building Momentum

J

anuary always brings a renewed sense of purpose. There’s something powerful about turning the page into a new year—it invites reflection, fresh perspective and a deeper desire to feel well in every sense of the word. Along with that reflection comes momentum: an eagerness to move forward, make meaningful changes and live with greater intention.

comes from thoughtful choices made consistently, choices that honor the whole self.

For us, this season brings renewed clarity and a more intentional way of creating and connecting—both in print and through an expanding digital presence—along with a growing sense of optimism about what’s possible for the future.

If you’re beginning this year with the intention to feel healthier, more centered or more aligned, you’re not alone. Our January issue is designed to help you discover supportive local resources, practical tools and thoughtful approaches that meet you exactly where you are.

In winter, a quieter pace, crisp air and time spent indoors encourage more intentional choices around nourishment, movement and rest. Wellness isn’t something we have to wait for—it’s woven into the rhythm of daily life.

As we step into 2026 together, may this new year feel lighter, more aligned and filled with moments that bring you back to yourself. Thank you for welcoming Natural Awakenings into your home each month. Together, let’s make this a year of momentum, empowerment and vibrant living.

Our Health & Wellness issue is one of the most-read of the year because so many of us are actively seeking reliable guidance and new possibilities for whole-person well-being. We want to feel better, function better and live in ways that support the mind, body and spirit. And true wellness doesn’t come from one big change—it

HEALTHY LIVING HEALTHY PLANET

With warm wishes for a radiant and uplifting new year,

GREATER LANSING EDITION

NATIONAL TEAM

CEO Kimberly B. Whittle COO Michael Bevilacqua CMO Vee Banionis Sr. VP Operations Brian Stenzler, DC National Editor Sandra Yeyati Editor Brooke Goode Copy Editor Melanie Rankin Print Production Specialist Kevin Rankin Design Director Agnes Mazeikaite Production Flip180 Customer Service Dani Bucad National Contact 350 Main St, Ste 9B Bedminster, NJ 07921 239-206-2000

Subscriptions are available for $120 (for 12 issues) by emailing the above address.

Publishers John & Trina Voell III Design & Production John & Trina Voell III Ad Design Josh Halay Editors John & Trina Voell III Proofreader Randy Kambic Calendar Theresa Archer Sales & Marketing John & Trina Voell III Distribution Cindy Heistand City Pulse Website Design Locable Website & Social Media Carolyn Coogan SherTech

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© 2026 by Natural Awakenings. All rights reserved. Although some parts of this publication may be reproduced and reprinted, we require that prior permission be obtained in writing. Natural Awakenings is a free publication distributed locally and is supported by our advertisers. Please call to find a location near you or if you would like copies placed at your business. We do not necessarily endorse the views expressed in the articles and advertisements, nor are we responsible for the products and services advertised. Check with a healthcare professional regarding the appropriate use of any treatment.

LOCAL CONTACT 734-757-7929 Publisher@HealthyLivingMichigan.com HealthyLivingMichigan.com P.O. Box 2717, Ann Arbor, MI 48106

SUBSCRIPTIONS

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That’s why our editorial theme this year is Wellness Made Easy. Taking good care of ourselves shouldn’t feel complicated or out of reach. Often, the most transformative steps are the simplest ones: creating small pockets of quiet, choosing nourishing foods, reconnecting with nature or prioritizing movement that feels good. These gentle shifts, layered day by day, have a remarkable way of guiding us back to balance.

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Contents 12 The Stillness of Winter 13 Lifelong Natural Health Learning 14 The Power of Integrative Medicine 17 Stillness & Soil

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18 Dean Mitchell 20 Soulful Sourdough

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23 Safe, Natural Cancer Killers 24 Clean, Nonstick Cookware 26 Holistic Health From Nose to Tail

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Departments 8 News Briefs 10 Health Briefs 12 Podcast Spotlight 13 Program Spotlight 14 Feature Story

17 Retreat Spotlight 18 Wise Words 20 Conscious Eating 23 Product Spotlight 24 Green Living

26 28 29 30

Natural Pet Calendar Classifieds Resource Guide

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Natural Awakenings is a network of natural lifestyle magazine publishers empowering local communities with knowledge, resources and connections to lead healthier lives on a healthy planet.

January 2026

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News Briefs

Spiritual Center Shares Path to Inner Peace Through Buddhist Study Jewel Heart under the spiritual direction of Demo Rinpoche offers immersive programs and study opportunities rooted in Tibetan Buddhism. Located in Ann Arbor, the organization provides a bridge between ancient wisdom and contemporary life, nurturing spiritual transformation through teachings, meditation and community engagement. With programs designed for both newcomers and seasoned practitioners, Jewel Heart hosts seasonal retreats and seminars that deepen understanding of Buddhist philosophy and practice. Free weekly Sunday talks with Demo Rinpoche, originating from Ann Arbor, are open and accessible for all, as are a wide range of online/ onsite offerings for newcomers and ongoing students, including the NeverEnding Lamp of Liberation course. Explore and enjoy the “In Case You Missed” webpage with earlier program options still available. Jewel Heart also brings visiting lamas and scholars to its community including respected figures such as Tokden Rinpoche, Dagyab Rinpoche and Geshe Yeshe Thabkhe. Upcoming guest teachers include Glenn Mullin exploring The Life and Teachings of the 5th Dalai Lama in January, Robert Thurman presenting Buddhism Beyond Buddhism in February, Guy Newland on loss and grief in April and Joseph Loizzo in September. Location: 1129 Oak Valley Dr., Ann Arbor. For more information, call 734-994-3387 or visit JewelHeart.org.

Spa and Wellness Studio Provides Holistic Treatments R e v ive Wel l ne ss provides natural health and self-care services designed to supp or t m i nd - b o dy well-being. With a focus on clean living, intentional care and personalized attention, the center helps clients reconnect with their health through modern, holistic therapies. Services include metabolic wellness support, massage therapy, body treatments and natural skin care—all tailored to individual 8

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needs. Clients are encouraged to slow down and prioritize self-care in a calming environment that promotes rest, recovery and longterm vitality. Revive Wellness emphasizes whole-person wellness. Customized massage and bodywork support relaxation, circulation and stress relief, while skincare services use clean, nourishing products to restore balance and radiance. These offerings are grounded in a philosophy of care that supports both physical and emotional well-being. Whether addressing health goals, managing stress or simply creating space for stillness, each visit to Revive Wellness offers clients a grounded, restorative experience. The team brings a thoughtful, compassionate approach to every session, making wellness accessible, personalized and deeply supportive. Location: 6500 Centurion Dr., Ste. 270, Lansing. For more information or to make an appointment, call 906-200-1496 or visit Revive Wellness517.com.

Adaptive Yoga Studio Supports Mental Health and Body Connection TheraPLAYoga offers an inclusive, body-first approach to healing through adaptive yoga and therapeutic movement. Specializing in support for individuals and families with complex needs, the studio provides personalized, trauma-informed care that helps clients reconnect with their bodies, regulate emotions and build resilience. Founded by Gloria Treviño, TheraPLAYoga centers its practice on accessibility—creating space for diverse bodies, brains and abilities. The studio’s sessions support children, teens and adults as they navigate mental health, stress and sensory processing. Every offering is rooted in somatic awareness, sensory integration and playful, compassionate movement. Clients learn to use the body as a tool for self-regulation, emotional balance and personal growth. TheraPLAYoga’s work benefits not only individuals, but also parents, caregivers and educators facing overwhelm and burnout. By prioritizing presence, safety and choice, each session fosters connection, empowerment and healing. TheraPLAYoga is offered by appointment-only to allow for individualized attention and tailored experiences. With a strong emphasis on education, the studio also provides resources to support self-awareness and long-term well-being at home, school and beyond. Location: 2015 E. Michigan Ave. For more information or to make an appointment, visit TheraPLAYoga.com.

The Ruhala Center: Where Performance Meets Purpose At the Ruhala Center, in East Lansing, theater is more than entertainment—it’s a vehicle for transformation. Blending professional-caliber training with a deep respect for each student’s individuality, the center has carved out a unique space in Michigan’s performing arts landscape. Founded by Mark and Celina Ruhala, both veteran performers and educators, the center offers a holistic approach to the performing arts. With classes in acting, voice, dance and musical theater for children, teens and adults, the focus is on nurturing confidence, creativity and personal growth alongside technical skill. What sets the Ruhala Center apart is its commitment to process. While public performances are a vital part of the experience, equal emphasis is placed on the inner journey—developing presence, discipline and the courage to take creative risks. Director Mark Ruhala, a seasoned Broadway performer and choreographer, brings decades of industry experience to the studio. His guidance is matched by a faculty of professionals who are not only skilled artists, but also passionate mentors. The center regularly stages high-quality productions, from Broadway classics to original works, giving students the opportunity to apply what they’ve learned in a supportive, professional setting. Musical Director Jeff English, a longtime collaborator, brings a rich musicality to the center’s shows, elevating the artistic standard. Location: 1846 Haslett Rd., East Lansing. For more information, call 517-337-0464 or visit RuhalaCenter.com.

Noninvasive Care Helps Reduce Stress and Pain Gilead Healing Center offers chiropractic care with a focus on natural healing, personalized wellness and patient education. Led by Dr. Jean-Guy Daigneault, the center blends chiropractic treatment, nutrition testing and massage therapy to help individuals restore balance and live healthier lives. A former hockey player, Daigneault became a lifelong advocate of

chiropractic after experiencing its benefits firsthand. His journey from patient to practitioner fuels his passion for helping others experience the same life-changing results. At Gilead Healing Center, he leads a team that is dedicated to empowering patients to better understand their health and take an active role in their healing process. The center specializes in treating a wide range of conditions by addressing root causes rather than symptoms. Services include spinal adjustments, muscle testing and holistic nutrition support tailored to each individual. Massage therapy is also offered to promote circulation, reduce stress and support the body’s natural ability to heal. Patients are encouraged to schedule a complimentary consultation to discover how chiropractic care can help manage pain, improve energy and reduce the frustration of living with a treatable condition. With nearly two decades of experience, Gilead Healing Center continues to support the Lansing community with integrity and compassion. Location: 306 S. Creyts Rd., Lansing. For more information or to make an appointment, call 517-319-5818 or visit GileadHealingCenter.com.

Wellness Center Provides Innovative Care for Energy and Recovery ThrIV Bio offers a comprehensive approach to wellness, combining cutting-edge therapies with personalized care to help clients a c h i e ve opt i m a l health. Located in East Lansing, the center provides a wide range of services—from IV vitamin infusions and PEMF therapy to red light therapy, hyperbaric oxygen and medically supervised weight loss injections—designed to support energy, recovery and long-term vitality. Each treatment at ThrIV Bio is customized to the client’s specific health goals. Whether receiving care in the clinic or through the center’s mobile IV services, clients experience a convenient and holistic approach to wellness. The team emphasizes education and empowerment, ensuring clients understand their options and feel confident in their wellness journey. Therapies such as Flowpresso lymphatic compression, cryotherapy and IV ozone therapy offer support for circulation, detoxification and immune function. ThrIV Bio’s commitment to quality care, advanced technology and personalized service positions it as a leader in the modern wellness space. Whether seeking improved energy, enhanced immunity or a more balanced lifestyle, ThrIV Bio provides solutions tailored to each individual. Location: 1504 E. Grand River Ave., Ste. 204, East Lansing. For more information or to make an appointment, call 517-803-4700 or visit ThrIVBio.com. January 2026

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Health Briefs

Micro Dosing GLP-1 for Lasting Weight Loss

Weight loss can be an uphill battle, especially for those facing insulin resistance. Despite restrictive diets or exercise regimens, long-term results often remain out of reach. GLP-1 medications—Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro and Zepbound—are changing the narrative. These aren’t appetite suppressants, but rather metabolic regulators that work by improving insulin sensitivity throughout the body. GLP-1 receptors are located in the brain, stomach, pancreas, heart and intestines. By acting on these sites, the medications slow intestinal motility which helps reduce appetite and may influence brain neurotransmitters linked to food cravings. The result is sustainable weight loss particularly when paired with healthy lifestyle changes. While some users experience initial side effects, working closely with a knowledgeable provider can minimize discomfort and maximize long-term benefits. Research from the Cleveland Clinic notes that GLP-1 agonists not only aid in weight loss, but also reduce risks of cardiovascular disease, dementia, addiction and even cancer. This makes them a powerful tool not just for appearance, but for longevity and overall health.

Scalar Energy Support for Pain and Inflammation

When chronic fatigue, stress and inflammation take over, the body’s cells often show the first signs of distress—literally losing their charge. Healthy human cells typically operate between 70 to 90 millivolts. When depleted, that voltage can fall below 20 millivolts, a state often associated with illness and dysfunction. Emerging energy wellness systems are now helping clients restore this essential bioelectric balance. The Energy Enhancement System (EES) uses scalar wave technology combined with biophotonic light to help recharge the body at the cellular level. A laboratory study shows increased electrical conductivity in human cheek cells exposed to this energy field. A separate case report describes improvement in neurological symptoms after sessions in a scalar environment, offering promising if early-stage scientific support. While clinical research is still developing, many individuals report benefits such as deeper sleep, mood elevation, improved focus, and relief from pain and fatigue after spending time in these fields. The system is designed to support the body’s return to homeostasis by promoting circulation, cellular repair, and enhanced oxygenation.

At Wycoff Wellness Center, in East Lansing, patients benefit from a unique micro-dosing approach to GLP-1 medications. This method enhances weight-loss outcomes while reducing the likelihood of side effects, offering a sustainable path toward wellness.

Miraculous Energies Wellness Center, in Williamston, integrates this technology into its January offerings, including the Scalar Energy Lounge and complementary modalities like the BioCharger, Trifecta Red Light Therapy, and Harmonic Egg. For a limited time, clients can experience a one-month sampler for $99 or enjoy unlimited access for $199.

Location: 1226 Michigan Ave., East Lansing. For more information or to make an appointment, call 517-333-7270 or visit WycoffWellness. com. See ad and discounts on back cover.

Location: 2896 N. Williamston Rd., Ste. 400, Williamston. For more information or to book a session, call 517-599-4949 or visit Miraculous Energies.com. See ad and discounts on page 3.

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Greater Lansing

HealthyLivingMichigan.com

Antioxidant May Protect Heart During Chemotherapy

Cancer patients treated with doxorubicin, a common chemotherapy drug, may suffer heart damage, including reduced heart function, irregular heart rhythms and heart failure. A 2025 study published in Nature investigated whether astaxanthin, a natural antioxidant found in certain seafood and algae, could help reduce the damage. The researchers divided study rats into a group that received only doxorubicin, two groups that received doxorubicin along with different doses of astaxanthin, and a control group. They used ultrasound scans to check blood markers for heart injury, examined heart tissue, measured cellular energy levels and analyzed proteins related to mitochondrial health. Rats given doxorubicin alone experienced heart damage, mitochondrial disruptions and lower energy levels in the heart. By contrast, rats treated with astaxanthin showed improved heart function compared to the doxorubicin group, fewer signs of injury, healthier heart tissue and higher cellular energy levels. Astaxanthin also protected the structure and function of mitochondria. Further research in humans is needed to confirm whether astaxanthin could safely and effectively be used alongside chemotherapy.

Reducing Anxiety With Virtual Sound Therapy

Biofield tuning (BT) balances the body’s energy field using sound vibrations. A 2023 study published in Complementary Therapies in Medicine involved 15 participants that received three weekly hour-long BT sessions over Zoom from certified practitioners during the COVID-19 pandemic. Participant surveys revealed significant reductions in anxiety, negative emotions and perceived stress after the treatments. They also reported feeling more positive and less overwhelmed. The practitioners observed a decrease in negative emotional language by the participants, indicating a shift to a more positive emotional state. Although the study was small, the results suggest that sound-based energy healing could be an effective, low-risk option for managing anxiety.

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Podcast Spotlight

The Stillness of Winter Body Led Podcast Illuminates the Power of Rest and Reflection The podcast weaves in practical invitations to reconnect with this quieter energy. TwoMoon encourages simple daily practices such as sitting in silence, walking without narrative or lying flat with intentional breath. “These are acts of presence,” she says, “not of doing—but of being.” Her teaching highlights that only by cultivating stillness can we nourish the roots from which inspired action can grow.

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r. Julie TwoMoon shares a deeply rooted message of natural alignment in her recent installment of the Body Led podcast, encouraging listeners to embrace stillness as an essential component of seasonal health. Her focus turns toward the significance of winter’s Yin energy and the cultivation of rest as both a personal and planetary necessity.

“Society demands our attention with a frenzy of activity,” she notes, describing the relentless pace from October through early January. Holiday events, family obligations and cultural pressures often leave people overextended. “We’ve become so disconnected from stillness that it now feels unfamiliar—even threatening,” she says.

In Chinese medicine, Yin is linked with restoration, deep nourishment and the spiritual foundation of health. Without it, vitality diminishes and chronic imbalance can set in.

Drawing from Chinese medicine, TwoMoon explains that the period surrounding the winter solstice—especially marked by Da Xue, or “major snow”—represents the most Yin time of the year. In contrast to summer’s Yang energy, which brings action, expansion and outward movement, winter invites inwardness, stillness and reflection. Through personal storytelling and clinical insight, she outlines how modern life tends to resist these natural rhythms. 12

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TwoMoon shares that her own journey toward healing included recognizing the consequences of overexertion, especially during early motherhood and professional life. Years of depletion, marked by blood deficiency and fatigue, revealed the importance of nurturing the Yin essence. In Chinese medicine, Yin is linked with restoration, deep nourishment and the spiritual foundation of health. Without it, vitality diminishes and chronic imbalance can set in.

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This philosophy extends beyond personal well-being. TwoMoon suggests that collective healing and environmental restoration both begin with individual reconnection to inner essence. “How we spend our energy is directly tied to what kind of world we build,” she explains. In aligning with the natural rhythm of the seasons, she believes individuals can contribute to broader cultural balance.

Dr. Julie TwoMoon

Listeners can expect more insights in the coming months as Dr. TwoMoon finalizes a new book exploring the body-led path and prepares to release alchemical formulas designed to support internal balance and vitality. These offerings reflect her continued commitment to guiding others toward deepened body connection and divine integration. Scan QR code to view full podcast. For more information or to make an appointment, visit DrJulieTwoMoon.com.

Program Spotlight

Lifelong Natural Health Learning New Certification Path Opens at Naturopathic Institute

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he Naturopathic Institute of Therapies and Education (NITE) introduces its Emphasis Certification Program, a dynamic initiative designed to support lifelong learning in the natural health field. Located in Mt. Pleasant, the institute offers this comprehensive program in collaboration with the Embassy of Life Mastery beginning in 2026. The program provides a flexible path for students, professionals and community members to expand their expertise or explore new areas of interest without enrolling in a full diploma track. Rooted in the philosophy of holistic wellness, the Emphasis Certification Program empowers participants to deepen their understanding of natural healing arts through nine academic departments. Each department offers its own area of focus—from vibrational medicine and advanced bodywork to food revolution and homesteading—allowing individuals to personalize their learning journey according to their professional goals or personal curiosity.

Each emphasis department includes a blend of one-day classes and weekend intensives that are designed to be immersive and practical. Topics range from the cellular sciences and environmental medicine of Advanced Naturopathic Sciences to the intuitive healing techniques explored in Advanced Energy Work. Other departments cover essential areas such as Herbology, Holistic Family Medicine and Self-Healing as well as emerging specialties like Vibrational Medicine. Participants are guided by experienced faculty members with backgrounds in naturopathy, bodywork and functional health sciences. Many courses include hands-on workshops, outdoor exploration and applied clinical tools. Whether it’s learning how to grow biodynamic herbs, apply craniosacral techniques or interpret genetic health markers, students are immersed in the kind of experiential learning that defines NITE’s educational philosophy.

Enrollment in the Emphasis Certification Program requires submission of an Individual Class Registration Form at least 10 days prior to the course start date. Costs vary by student status and program level and participants pursuing certification must also complete a formal enrollment agreement. Some emphasis courses have prerequisites based on core naturopathy coursework while others are open to beginners. The program schedule is updated annually with new classes and topics offered each year. While some students will complete an emphasis for credit toward a certification, others may choose to attend single classes for enrichment, skill-building or community engagement. Location: 503 E. Broadway St., Mt. Pleasant. For more information, call 989-773-1714, visit NaturopathicInstitute.org/Emphasis-Certification-Program or scan QR code. See ad on page 15.

The program is structured to accommodate a diverse audience. Current degree-seeking students can add a specialized emphasis to their existing Naturopathic Health or Therapeutic Bodywork coursework. New students may pursue a focused certification without enrolling in a full program while alumni and licensed practitioners can take individual classes for continuing education credits. Lifelong learners seeking personal development are also welcome to join any emphasis course without the need for formal certification. January 2026

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Feature Story

The Power of Integrative Medicine A Guide to Whole-Person Care by Hannah Tytus On an integrative health team, medical doctors may work alongside acupuncturists, naturopaths, herbalists, chiropractors, massage therapists or any number of specialized practitioners. “Integrative medicine is taking the best of what we call Western medicine and integrating it into what is practiced in other parts of the world to create a health plan where the patient is the focus,” says Hakima Amri, Ph.D., co-director of the integrative medicine and health sciences program at Georgetown University. These other medicine systems include Traditional Chinese Medicine, Indian Ayurveda, Unani-Tibb medicine, homeopathy and others.

The Whole-Person Mindset

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s interest in health and wellness grows, more people are seeking medical models that go beyond symptom treatment and disease management. Integrative medicine has emerged as one such approach, blending conventional and complementary methods to address the health of the whole person. An integrative health approach offers a practical, evidence-informed framework for personalized care. Its focus is shifting the conversation to prevention by cultivating holistic health that goes beyond the absence of disease.

Defining Integrative Medicine

The Academic Consortium for Integrative 14

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Medicine & Health defines integrative medicine as a philosophy that emphasizes the practitioner-patient relationship, focuses on the whole person, is evidence based and draws on all appropriate therapies and lifestyle approaches that promote optimal health and healing. Brent Bauer, M.D., a professor of medicine and the research chair for Mayo Clinic Integrative Medicine and Health, describes it as “bringing the best of both conventional and evidence-based complementary therapies together to optimally meet the needs of the patient. We simply ask, what is the best therapy for the individual patient? That gets us back to what I would think of as plain old good medicine.”

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Integrative medicine is about viewing patients holistically, considering all parts of their humanity. Rather than examining organs or systems in isolation, practitioners evaluate the multitude of factors that influence illness or well-being. It emphasizes disease prevention, resilience building and health restoration throughout the lifespan. “We bring a whole team of practitioners to work with the patient, to look at the patient as a whole and not only treat symptoms, but to truly heal the patient,” explains Amri. Whole-person health rests on five key principles: patient-centered, relationship-based care; personalized health plans; attention to physical, mental and spiritual well-being; prevention and self-responsibility; and collaboration across modalities and

providers. It acknowledges the patient as being embedded in environmental, relational, emotional and spiritual contexts that each play a part.

Integrative Medicine in Practice

Bauer explains how an integrative approach might work for a surgery patient. “If they have pain, a conventional approach might include medications, physical therapy or perhaps an injection. As an integrative physician, I have an even larger toolkit with things such as acupuncture, tuina (a Chinese bodywork technique), massage, mind-body practices like yoga and meditation, herbs and supplements, and low-level laser therapy.” As the medical doctor leading the team, Bauer confers with other in-house practitioners to build a customized care plan. This expanded toolkit gives him a better chance of finding a therapy that not only works for the patient but also fits their personal preferences to optimize their quality of life.

Why Whole-Person Health Matters

“Chronic conditions are the biggest plight to humanity today. People are living with cardiovascular disease, diabetes, allergies, irritable bowel disorders and more, often with multiple conditions at once,” says Amri. Chronic disease is now a leading health challenge in the United States, heavily impacting quality of life for many. One in four American adults lives with chronic pain. At the same time, the use of complementary and integrative approaches has risen sharply from 19.2 percent in 2002 to 36.7 percent in 2022, with increases in yoga and meditation leading the growth. “I think integrative medicine is an excellent approach for any patient,” says Bauer. “But I think it really shines when it comes to patients with chronic disease. By definition, most chronic illnesses are ones that conventional medicine cannot cure.” At the Mayo Clinic, he sees firsthand how integrative approaches can transform lives. He often introduces mindfulness and

biofeedback-based meditation to help patients manage stress. Beyond symptom relief, Bauer emphasizes a comprehensive lifestyle framework rooted in integrative principles that include balanced nutrition, regular exercise, daily mind-body practice, restorative sleep, strong social and spiritual connections, and time in nature, finding these evidence-based habits to be not only restorative, but profoundly transformative.

Misconceptions and Skepticism

When it comes to innovative healing philosophies, myths abound. Here are some common misconceptions about integrative medicine. • Myth: Integrative medicine is exotic. People often think it is coming from elsewhere—other people’s traditions—and not our culture, yet many of the modalities were founded in the West, including naturopathy, chiropractic, osteopathy and homeopathy, notes Amri.

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Feature Story • Myth: Integrative is the same as alternative. Integrative medicine is not alternative medicine. Alternative therapies replace conventional care, often without scientific evidence, while integrative medicine combines evidence-based approaches for positive outcomes. • Myth: There is little scientific evidence. According to Amri, the assumption that there is no scientific evidence to support the use of integrative medicine is 30 years out of date. Today, almost every major healing modality has been studied. Bauer highlights the scale of research, pointing to the Mayo Clinic Integrative Medicine program, which has published more than 600 peer-reviewed manuscripts covering hundreds of clinical trials over three decades showing the benefits of massage, acupuncture and mind-body practices.

Communicating With Healthcare Providers

Although one-third of adults report using complementary and integrative medicine modalities, at least 42 percent of users do not disclose their integrative therapy usage to their doctor. This nondisclosure can be dangerous, as many integrative modalities can potentially interact with medications or chronic conditions.

Amri offers an example: “Ginkgo biloba is good for improving memory, but it is also a blood thinner. If someone is on prescription blood thinners, it could cause serious complications.” Many herbs and supplements can interact with prescription medications and preexisting conditions, so it is very important to establish an open and honest dialogue with healthcare providers. To facilitate good conversations, Amri advises patients to be open and well-prepared. She encourages patients to bring their research materials with them to their appointments: “Do your research ahead of time,” she says. “If there are papers or studies you find interesting, take them with you and share them with your doctor. Be prepared and explain why you want to try certain therapies.” “Physicians can do their part by listening carefully and by honestly acknowledging where their knowledge base might be limited,” says Bauer. “This is a great time for them to reach out to their integrative medicine colleagues and have them provide guidance to help meet the patient’s needs with evidence-based approaches.”

Looking Ahead

Despite the growth in integrative medicine, key barriers remain. Bauer points to

SCHOOL OF

PHARMACY

insurance as the biggest gap, explaining, “Very few of these evidence-based, helpful, cost-avoiding therapies are covered by payers. My hope is that we see that change significantly in the immediate future. In a fiveto-ten-year time frame, I think we’ll simply drop all the labels and call it good medicine.” Amri also sees the field evolving quickly. “We’ve been training a whole generation of researchers that look at things differently,” she remarks, adding that policy reform and adequate reimbursements are essential to making integrative care more accessible. Integrative medicine brings together evidence, empathy and empowerment, uniting the best of conventional, traditional and complementary approaches. It emphasizes collaboration between patients and providers, shared responsibility for wellness and a comprehensive focus on the whole person. By bridging therapies, fostering dialogue and addressing chronic disease with both science and compassion, integrative care offers a hopeful path to redefining modern health. Hannah Tytus is an integrative health coach, researcher and content creator at KnoWEwell, P.B.C., and former writer at the National Institutes of Health.

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Retreat Spotlight

Stillness & Soil Intimate, Nature-Based Retreat Restores Mind, Body and Spirit

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tillness & Soil is a nature-immersive healing retreat in Adrian, Michigan, designed to help participants slow down, reconnect and return to their natural rhythm. Founded by Melissa Anderson, a licensed acupuncturist with over a decade of clinical experience, the retreat blends traditional healing practices with a restorative connection to land, body and breath. Each three-day experience is limited to just four guests, fostering deep presence and intimate connection in a tranquil setting. Located on private family land with gardens, a tea room and walking trails, the retreat invites participants into an atmosphere of stillness, nourishment and care. Guests share slow mornings, seasonal meals, forest immersion and spacious reflection throughout the retreat. Anderson’s approach integrates acupuncture, somatic bodywork and guided meditation. She is also a Neuro-Linguistic Programming practitioner, drawing on a diverse

background in mind-body healing. Her presence—both grounded and heart-centered—creates a nonjudgmental space for deep rest, authenticity and inner peace. Daily schedules include acupuncture, restorative movement, guided stillness, tea ceremony and garden-based mindfulness. Participants are encouraged to engage with the land through foraging and hands-inthe-earth rituals that ground and replenish. Asian-inspired dietary therapy informs each meal using whole foods and seasonal ingredients prepared with care. Stillness & Soil offers cozy private lodging in a farmhouse setting as well as time for journaling, solitude or exploration. The space encourages guests to unplug from modern distractions and root into themselves and the natural world. This retreat is ideal for those seeking reconnection, pleasure and wholeness—especially

individuals navigating stress, life transitions or burnout. Veterans receive priority access to limited sponsored spots and early registration is available for those booking more than 60 days in advance. Anderson’s work centers on the belief that healing happens in slowness, in nature and in togetherness. Through Stillness & Soil, she offers a sacred container for individuals to pause, soften and remember what it means to be whole. Retreats are currently booking for February, March and April. Participants are encouraged to reserve their space early due to the small group size and high demand. Location: 2511 Howell Hwy., Adrian. For more information or reservations, call 517-6180003 or visit Stillness AndSoil.com. January 2026

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Wise Words

Dean Mitchell on Conquering Candida by Sandra Yeyati

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ean Mitchell, M.D., is a board-certified immunologist and a pioneer in holistic immunology. As a founder of the Mitchell Medical Group with his wife, Dr. Ricki Mitchell, in New York City, he specializes in diagnosing and treating candida overgrowth, mast cell activation syndrome and toxic mold exposure. With more than 30 years of practical experience, he combines conventional and integrative care to address the root causes of disease and educate patients on sustainable wellness solutions. Mitchell, an adjunct assistant professor at Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine, is also a published author of several books and host of a popular podcast, The Smartest Doctor in the Room, where he interviews renowned medical specialists. His latest book is Conquering Candida: The New 30-Day Protocol for Restoring Your Microbiome and Health, co-authored with his daughter-inlaw, Joelle Mitchell, a registered dietitian. Candida is a type of yeast that can live on the skin and in the body without causing problems, but an overgrowth can lead to an infection called candidiasis, also known as a yeast infection, which can range from mild to severe and affect various parts of the body.

What is a candida overgrowth?

A healthy microbiome is diverse, with all kinds of different bacteria, viruses and yeast, whereas an unhealthy microbiome is distorted because the good bacteria have been wiped out, leaving candida, a highly resistant organism, as the dominant species. A candida overgrowth occurs when candida yeast microorganisms predominate, 18

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affecting the microbiome and resulting in a range of unpleasant symptoms.

What are the most prevalent symptoms of a candida overgrowth?

After treating thousands of patients, I have categorized symptoms into four distinct levels. The initial stage manifests as

HealthyLivingMichigan.com

gastrointestinal symptoms such as bloating, constipation or diarrhea. The next stage involves leaky gut syndrome, where the yeast moves out of the intestine. This phenomenon is particularly prevalent in women who develop chronic vaginal yeast infections. The third stage of candida overgrowth occurs when the candida penetrates deeper into the

body, leading to symptoms like brain fog. This occurs because excessive yeast production generates acetaldehyde, a substance that can cause cognitive impairment. The fourth stage is when the candida becomes deeply ingrained, resulting in chronic fatigue, fibromyalgia and widespread muscle pain.

What causes an overgrowth of candida?

Long-term use of antibiotics, proton pump inhibitors or acid blockers, birth control pills and even steroids—including the ones you inhale or take orally—can disrupt the natural balance of the gut microbiome, leading to candida overgrowth. The other big culprit is excessive glucose intake. Disruptions in the endocrine system can also lead to candida problems. That includes people with diabetes, metabolic syndrome or polycystic ovarian syndrome who tend to have high insulin and high blood sugar levels. And when you’re under a lot of stress, your cortisol levels go up as a defense reaction, which can also increase blood sugar levels and precipitate a candida imbalance.

In your 30-day candida protocol, what dietary changes do you recommend?

Initially, avoid processed sugar, dairy (including cheese and yogurt), grains (especially wheat-based), fermented foods and alcohol. You can consume fiber-rich foods, which benefit your microbiome. Apples and berries are good, but avoid very sweet fruits like watermelon, cantaloupe or pineapple. Include a variety of vegetables, especially cruciferous ones and greens, but avoid corn (too sugary) and mushrooms (too yeasty). Skip potatoes and rice, which spike your sugar. Quinoa is a better alternative. Ensure you have quality protein sources like chicken, fish, turkey and meats. Drink water and teas, but avoid soda or diet soda. Gradually, we reintroduce certain foods.

What type of supplementation do you recommend?

What about the next prong of your treatment—the antifungal medications?

Following my treatment with strong antifungals, the idea is to administer a little bit of candida in the form of sublingual drops to stimulate the body’s own immunity and build up a tolerance. This approach aims to empower the body to effectively manage candida without the reliance on future antifungal interventions. Essentially, it involves stimulating protective antibodies to keep the candida in check.

There is a big misunderstanding about the dangers of antifungals, even among some doctors. From my experience, they tend to be very safe medications. Several FDA-approved options work very well. Patients typically require a minimum of three to four weeks of treatment, with some needing more, potentially extending to several months, to eradicate candida when it has deeply infiltrated the tissue.

I have patients come in, especially when I’m prescribing the antifungals, for intravenous vitamin therapy known as the Myers’ cocktail, comprised of B-complex vitamins, magnesium, vitamins C and D3, plus the antioxidant glutathione. People who are having medical issues like candida need extra support. Intravenous vitamins also mitigate the Herxheimer reaction, a flu-like response that occurs when candida begins to die off and releases toxins, triggering an immune response.

Could you explain the sublingual immunotherapy drops included in your protocol?

Sandra Yeyati is national editor of Natural Awakenings.

January 2026

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Conscious Eating

Soulful Sourdough Why This Bread Still Heals by Maya Whitman

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ourdough, made from flour, water, salt and starter, is the oldest form of leavened bread, originating with the ancient Egyptians. Unlike most yeast breads, sourdough has a low glycemic index and does not spike blood sugar levels. A 2024 study in Foods highlights its benefits compared to other types of bread, including improved digestibility, high mineral and antioxidant content, better blood sugar control and improved dietary fiber composition, including prebiotics to feed healthy gut bacteria.

With knowledge, a good starter and patience, sourdough can become a lifelong friend, offering more than just the iconic crusty loaf. “The same living starter that makes a loaf rise can become the morning’s pancakes, the evening’s pizza or even a tray of chocolate chip cookies,” says Robitaille. “Once you understand how the culture behaves, you can shape it into nearly anything: soft rolls, bagels, waffles, muffins, even pastry.”

Artisans that master its versatility also find sourdough to be a source of emotional nourishment. “You hear the crust crackle as it cools, smell the warmth of grain and time, and know that something very old and very human has happened in your own kitchen,” says Lisa Robitaille, founder of Great Lakes Sourdough, in Kingston, Ontario, Canada.

While many yeast breads cause bloating and other gut discomforts, sourdough is gentler. According to the Mayo Clinic, regular consumption of sourdough can improve the intestinal microbiome. “During a long fermentation, the yeast and bacteria produce enzymes that help break down gluten and some carbohydrates and reduce phytic

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A Belly-Friendly Treat

HealthyLivingMichigan.com

acid, a grain compound that can block mineral absorption. The result is a sourdough bread many people find easier to digest,” explains Katya Nikolov, a cancer research scientist and owner of Dubuque Bakery, in Snohomish, Washington. “My view is simple and science-first: When it is slowly fermented and made with high-quality flour, sourdough can be a delicious, gut-friendly ally within a varied, balanced diet.” According to Emily Harryman, owner of Plain Jane Bakes, in Keller, Texas, and author of the upcoming cookbook Plain Jane Sourdough, her customers with irritable bowel syndrome and gluten intolerance attest to sourdough’s superiority. “I had one customer in particular who relayed to me that my bread was the only bread she could eat,” Harryman boasts. “She took my sourdough class before she moved out of state

so she could replicate it in her new home. It was such a blessing to her.”

Tips for Beginners

A sourdough starter is a live, active, fermented culture made from flour and water that acts as a leavening agent for baked goods, replacing commercial yeast and providing a signature tangy flavor. Sourdough starters vary greatly depending on water-to-flour ratios (from liquid to stiff), flavor profiles (from tangy to sour to slightly sweet) and flour types (from whole grain rye to whole wheat to unbleached all-purpose). The secret to sourdough success is letting nature take its course. Fresh herbs, fruit, cheese, seeds or chocolate can be folded into the dough for a delicious taste experience, but behind every fresh-from-the-oven masterpiece is a good starter. Each one is unique, thanks to a mélange of elements. As Harryman explains, “When the wild yeasts from the

starter mingle and consume the sugars in the flour, carbon dioxide gas is released. The dough’s gluten network traps the gas, causing the dough to rise, yielding sourdough’s renowned, airy crumb.” “Sourdough bread baking isn’t just following a recipe; it’s understanding the living system in your bowl and a constant response to a changing environment like temperature, season, humidity and flour,” says Nikolov, who recommends using a scale, keeping notes and aiming for steady, comfortable temperatures between 72° and 78° F for both the starter and dough. She generally prefers clean, non-processed, organic whole-grain flours milled directly from the grain, as well as ancient wheats like einkorn and spelt. For reliability and depth of flavor, Harryman suggests acquiring a mature starter fed with organic flour, ideally dark rye. This can be accomplished by

connecting with a local sourdough baker or ordering a well-reviewed, dehydrated sourdough starter. “They are fairly easy to revive, and some are nearly 100 years old in maturity,” she explains. For a gluten-free option, she recommends building a starter from scratch to be sure of its purity. Robitaille underscores the importance of time, grain and imagination for flavor. “Red Fife [a North American heirloom wheat variety] brings a quiet sweetness; rye adds depth and spice; and whole wheat speaks of the harvest field,” she explains. In a busy world, baking bread can be a grounding, meditative act that also nourishes family and friends. “There is a kind of stillness in the act of baking that feels sacred. You watch a living culture transform simple ingredients into sustenance,” she muses. “That, to me, is magic.” Maya Whitman is a frequent writer for Natural Awakenings.

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Conscious Eating

EVERYDAY SOURDOUGH LOAF WITH HONEY YIELD: 1 LOAF 3 cups white-bread or all-purpose flour 1 cup whole-wheat flour 1½ cup water ½ cup active sourdough starter ¾ Tbsp honey 1¾ tsp salt Rice flour for dusting

Once the dough has proofed, lightly dust the counter with rice flour. Turn out the dough onto a clean work surface and shape it into a ball by hand—this is called a pre-shape. Let it rest for 20 to 30 minutes on the counter uncovered.

Combine all ingredients except the rice flour in a bowl or stand mixer. Mix just until no dry flour remains and the dough is cohesive. The bulk fermentation process begins as soon as the starter is mixed with the other ingredients, which means that the dough will rise and grow in size while it ferments. Cover the dough with a damp linen kitchen towel and let it rest for 30 minutes to an hour at 73° to 75° F room temperature.

To cold proof the dough, cover the loaf with a damp linen kitchen towel and refrigerate 12 to 16 hours.

Stretch and fold the dough as follows: With lightly wet fingertips, grab a portion of the dough and stretch it upward. Fold the dough over toward the center of the bowl. Give the bowl a quarter turn and repeat the stretch and fold. Continue to turn, stretch and fold until the circle is complete. Cover the dough and let it sit for 30 minutes. Repeat this stretchand-fold process three more times, letting the dough rest for 30 minutes in between. After the fourth set of stretch-and-folds, cover the dough with a linen cloth or towel and allow it to ferment at room temperature. Let the dough proof (rise until the needed bulk

22

is complete) approximately 5 hours, but the time may vary. Watch the dough, not the clock, looking for a noticeable rise of about 60 to 75 percent, a slightly domed surface, bubbles on the surface and an airy feel with a gentle jiggle.

Greater Lansing

HealthyLivingMichigan.com

Shape the dough and place it seam-side up in a rice-flour dusted banneton (or extra-large bowl lined with a linen cloth). Let the shaped dough rest at room temperature for 1 hour to start fermentation before the cold proof.

Place an oven-safe cast iron Dutch oven with the lid onto the center rack of the oven. Preheat the oven to 480° F for 1 hour. Invert the cold dough onto parchment paper, score the loaf, load it into the hot Dutch oven and cover it with the lid. Bake covered for 20 minutes to trap steam and drive dough expansion. After 20 minutes, remove the lid, reduce the oven to 450° F and bake for an additional 15 to 20 minutes until the loaf is deep golden. It is ready when the internal temperature is 205° to 210° F. Let the loaf cool for 1 to 2 hours before slicing, so that the crumb can set. Recipe courtesy of Katya Nikolov of Dubuque Bakery.

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Green Living

Clean, Nonstick Cookware Transforming the Kitchen for Human and Planetary Health by Marlaina Donato

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rom omelets to air-fried treats, modern nonstick cookware makes cooking effortless with minimal cleanup. However, many of these pots, pans, baking sheets, waffle irons, slow cookers, countertop ovens and more are coated with per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS)—known as “forever chemicals”. These substances can leach into food, accumulate in the body and pose serious health risks, including hormone imbalances, altered immunity, inflammatory and autoimmune conditions, kidney disease, adverse reproductive and developmental outcomes and cancer. They also harm the environment, affecting wildlife, soil and water.

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Greater Lansing

Although the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has designated perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) as hazardous, and the manufacture of PFOA was voluntarily phased out by 2015 in this country, imported products may still contain them.

Seeing Through False Claims

“Even when a label claims PFOA-free or PFOS-free, manufacturers often substitute newer fluorinated chemicals like GenX or PTFE [polytetrafluoroethylene, also known as Teflon] derivatives which still fall under the PFAS family and pose risks to the liver, hormones and immune

HealthyLivingMichigan.com

system,” warns Kali Storm, a functional nutritionist and founder of Root Level Living, in Clear Lake, Wisconsin. After recovering from a severe illness linked to mold exposure, Storm replaced her nonstick cookware with healthier options like cast iron. She advises caution with imported products, which may not disclose the presence of glazes, adhesives, bonding agents or sealants in multi-layer cookware that can introduce phenols, phthalates and other endocrine-disrupting chemicals. High-quality ceramic cookware is generally considered safe. Beth Bollinger, an

integrative health practitioner and the founder of Nest Wellness, in Sonoma County, California, points out that true ceramic is stoneware and porcelain. However, she notes that many ceramic nonstick pans are actually metal pans with a sol-gel ceramic coating that can contain nanoparticles, lead, cadmium or PFAS. “Always look for third-party testing certifications and avoid inexpensive ceramic-coated cookware from unknown brands,” she cautions. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration imposes cookware safety regulations, but it does not test the products. The State of California goes further with Proposition 65, which requires manufacturers to disclose whether their cookware contains lead, cadmium or certain PFAS. And the European Union sets the strictest limits on cookware coatings, banning specified heavy metals and harmful chemicals, including PFAS. Third-party organizations that test products to ensure compliance with applicable safety standards and regulations include Greenscreen Certified (GreenScreenChemicals.org), SGS (sgs.com) and Intertek (Intertek.com).

Choosing Cleaner Options

Like Storm, Bollinger cleaned up her food and home environment, including kitchenware, after a health diagnosis, and she

believes those modifications led to significant improvements in energy, mental clarity and overall well-being. Her kitchen essentials include enameled cast iron, for its nonreactive nature with acidic foods, and carbon steel, which is lighter than cast iron and heats quickly and evenly. Bollinger suggests, “Start out with stainless steel, because it’s the most versatile and user-friendly option. High-quality stainless steel—18/10 with an aluminum or copper core for even heat distribution—is durable, nonreactive, dishwasher-safe and works for almost any cooking method, be it sautéing, searing, boiling or baking.” She acknowledges the challenge of finding air fryers and slow cookers without chemical coatings but recommends models with stainless steel baskets and true ceramic or stoneware inserts for slow cookers. She also advises verifying with the manufacturer that their ceramic is lead- and cadmium-free. For Storm and her family, cast iron is a versatile and reliable choice. “Cast iron is incredibly user-friendly once you learn how to use and clean it,” she explains. “Many don’t realize how naturally nonstick it becomes when well-seasoned. If you cook in your cast iron regularly and clean it properly with no soap, just hot water and a scrub, you’re technically seasoning it a little bit every time.”

Storm loves cast iron’s slick surface for egg dishes and golden-edged pancakes. “The same pan can easily go from stovetop to oven. We’ve made lasagna, casseroles, cornbread, skillet meals, roasted vegetables and even apple crisps in cast iron. For stews or chili, a covered cast iron Dutch oven retains heat beautifully.” To season cast iron, she recommends using avocado oil, flaxseed oil or beef tallow, and avoiding budget vegetable or seed oils that may contain fillers and oxidize easily. Cast iron pans naturally add small amounts of iron to food, especially when cooking acidic ingredients like tomato sauce. This can be beneficial for healthy individuals or those that are deficient, but people with too much iron in their blood might want to minimize or avoid using cast iron altogether.

Making the Switch

Small lifestyle changes can make a big difference in our overall well-being, and opting for cleaner, more sustainable cookware is a wise choice. As Storm points out, “When you remove toxins from what you cook in, breathe in and live around, the body can finally stop fighting and start healing.” Marlaina Donato is an author, painter and composer. Connect at WildflowersAndWoodSmoke.com.

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Natural Pet

Holistic Health From Nose to Tail Whole-Pet Strategies for Optimized Well-Being by Ruth Roberts, DVM, CVA, CVH, CVFT, NAN

O

verall pet wellness transcends the mere absence of illness, encompassing body, mind and spirit. From digestion to mood, every system is interconnected in subtle ways that influence how animals feel and behave. Understanding and supporting these connections allows pets to experience more ease, energy and joy in everyday life. An integrative, energy-based approach views animal

companions as complete physical, emotional and energetic beings, combining modern veterinary science with natural healing strategies to restore balance and connection. “Holism means that the whole is greater than the sum of its parts. Our pets are more than their bodies made up of tissues and cells, so a holistic approach looks at the bigger picture,” says Dennis W. Thomas, a holistic

veterinarian and author of Whole-Pet Healing, adding that conventional veterinary medicine often focuses on individual parts of a pet’s body, whereas a holistic approach includes balanced nutrition, daily movement, emotional connection and a healthy home environment to build lasting vitality.

Clean Nutrition and Proper Hydration

Nutrition is the foundation for vitality, and a pet’s food should nourish, not burden, the body. Whole-pet wellness begins with clean, fresh ingredients and balanced hydration. “We must always look for the best guidance as to how to keep the physical body healthy with proper nutrition,” says Thomas, noting that food is more than just ingredients; it also carries energy and intention. “People were always looking for the right ingredients, hoping to get the same results, without realizing it was the love Grandma had for the child that made the soup healing,” he says, encouraging pet parents to use the same “energy of gratitude” when preparing their food. Dr. Chris Bessent, a holistic veterinarian and founder of Herbsmith and Medicus Veterinary Diets, stresses the importance of feeding pets whole foods, defined as “real, unprocessed ingredients, not byproducts or powders, but complete, natural foods that retain their original nutrients.” Whole-food meals combine fresh meats, organs, fruits and vegetables—for example, chicken, liver, blueberries and sweet potatoes—to create balanced nutrition. 26

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HealthyLivingMichigan.com

Hydration is equally important for overall wellness. Pets thrive with constant access to clean, filtered water and moisture-rich foods. Adequate hydration supports digestion, circulation and temperature regulation; flushes toxins; and maintains healthy skin and joints.

Daily Movement and Play

Exercise keeps pets strong, alert and emotionally balanced. Movement promotes flexibility and joint health, as well as behavioral stability. “Exercise is a form of self-care for dogs. It keeps their bodies strong, minds sharp and emotions balanced,” says Denise Bozenski, a holistic pet health coach, professional dog trainer and certified canine fitness coach based in Phoenix, Arizona. “It’s not about intensity; it’s about consistency, connection and engaging both body and mind.” Bozenski explains that gentle, consistent activity such as walks, swimming and play reduce anxiety and prevent stiffness. Regular movement supports joint health, cardiovascular strength and a healthy weight, as well as providing essential mental stimulation. Dogs are natural explorers that find purpose through activity and engagement with their environment. Regular movement improves behavior. For senior dogs, staying active preserves mobility, comfort and confidence.

Supporting Pets’ Emotional and Energetic Health

Pets feel deeply, and their emotions directly affect their health and behavior. A 2024 review in the journal Animals reports that various stressors and emotional imbalance can trigger abnormal levels of the stress hormone cortisol, which in turn influences a dog’s behavior and physical state. Emotional balance centers on trust, calm connection and stability. To support this connection, pet parents should focus on creating calm, loving routines, speaking gently and spending unhurried time together. Equally important, creating a safe, toxin-free environment helps pets feel secure. The bond between humans and pets operates on an energetic level, too. Thomas advises, “Where two energetic beings spend a lot of time together, the energy seeks harmony and the two energies become one.” He calls this “quantum entanglement”, noting that pets often share their higher energy with humans, lifting us up, but sometimes absorbing our stress in return. Because pets mirror the energy around them, calm, gratitude and presence at home are essential. Supporting whole-pet wellness involves more than keeping animals healthy; it’s about nurturing balance in every part of their lives. When pet parents meet their pets’ physical, emotional and energetic needs, they build a foundation for lasting vitality and trust. Ruth Roberts, an integrative veterinarian and a holistic health coach for pets, is the creator of The Original CrockPet Diet. Learn more at DrRuthRoberts.com.

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Calendar of Events

GROW YOUR BUSINESS Secure your growing space! Contact us today. 734-757-7929

FRIDAY, JANUARY 9 Sensory-Friendly Night – 5:30-7:30pm. Our f riendly and welcoming staff will have the building open and exhibits will be altered to reduce sounds and lighting. HNC will also provide a quiet room and sensory kits will be on hand. Free. Harris Nature Center, 3998 Van Atta Rd, Okemos. 517-349-3866.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 10 Postpartum Doula Training – Jan 10-11. 9am-7pm. Hosted by Beyond Birthing Associates. Learn the practical skills necessary to provide postpartum and infant care support to client’s and their families, the entry level business skills needed to get started and the level of confidence it takes to make it all happen. $645. 46673 Marion Cir, Northville. BeyondBirthingAssociates.com.

DAILY Free Online Programs – Practical Buddhism, Healing and Compassion Meditation, Group Practice, White Tara Guided Healing Meditation, Sunday Talks. Jewel Heart Tibetan Buddhist Learning Center: JewelHeart.org. Naturally Purifying and Supercharging Your Body Podcast – 7-7:45pm. Matthew Hazen is the owner of Human Consciousness Support, a company that produces a unique nutraceutical product called MasterPeace. Free. BuzzSprout. com/1206776/14236700.

SUNDAY, JANUARY 18 Winter Seed Sowing Event – 11:30am-1pm. Abby Deneau, the founder of a new LLC devoted to native plant installations and care, including the Montgomery Drain Project in Lansing, will lead this effort with a variety of seeds sourced from local native plants, as well as potting mix. Haslett Community Church, 1427 Haslett Rd, Haslett. WildOnesLansing.weebly.com.

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 21 Snowman Painting – 6-7pm. Make your own puffy snow paint and paint a beautiful snowman or snow scene. Free. Grand Ledge Area District Library, 131 E Jefferson St, Grand Ledge. gladl.libcal.com.

THURSDAY, JANUARY 22 New Year, New Food Choices Presentation – 6-7pm. Learn the health and environmental benefits of eating more plant-based meals. We will provide tips and resources for incorporating more plant-based food into your life and to help you in getting started. Grand Ledge Area District Library, 131 E Jefferson St, Grand Ledge. VegMichigan.org.

MONDAY, JANUARY 26 Winter Birds & Feeders – 6-7pm. Enjoy a story and a presentation on winter birds and wildlife in our area and then try your hand at creating crafts to share some treats with winter birds. Free. Grand Ledge Area District Library, 131 E Jefferson St, Grand Ledge. gladl.libcal.com.

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HealthyLivingMichigan.com

MONTHLY River Walk Trash Cleanup – 11am-12pm. 1st day of each month. Join us in caring for the Earth and her waterways by picking up the trash on the Lansing River Trail and the areas around our building. Will meet each month unless it is actively raining or there is snow on the ground. Weavers of the Web, ATC, 809 Center St, Ste 8A, Lansing. 517-657-5800. WeaversOfTheWeb.org.

SUNDAYS White Tara Guided Healing Meditation – 10:30-11:30am. Free. Zoom. Jewel Heart Tibetan Buddhist Learning Center: 734994-3387. JewelHeart.org. Sunday Talk with Demo Rinpoche – 11am-12pm. Zoom. Jewel Heart Tibetan Buddhist Learning Center: 734-994-3387. JewelHeart.org.

MONDAYS Meaningful Mondays – 8pm. SevaLight Retreat Centre warmly welcomes everyone, of all faiths, meditation practices and traditions, to join us virtually. Will gather on video conference sharing in song/chants and inspiring readings from Mata Yogananda Mahasaya Dharmaji’s

writings, followed by Pure Meditation and silent prayer. Free. Email by 10am any Mon to receive the info about how to join by video: Info@SelfRealizationCentreMichigan.org.

TUESDAYS Mini-Community Acupuncture Happy Hour – 3-5pm. Relax, zen out, and experience the relaxation and health benefits of acupuncture in a welcoming community setting. Bring a friend and enjoy a mini-session designed to help you unwind and explore the benefits of acupuncture. Solara Wellness, 644 Migaldi Ln, Ste 300, Lansing. 517-388-1507. SolaraWellness.net.

school.com/sober-witch-recovery-circle. Monthly Women’s Circle – 6:30-8pm. 2nd Fri. A safe and supportive circle to come together to build skills, process emotions, connect with others and foster sisterhood. The circle offers guidance, laughter, sharing, growth and strength in community. $25. Alchemy Holistic Collective, 105 E Middle St, Chelsea. 734-210-1922. AlchemyHolisticCollective.com.

SATURDAYS Meridian Township Winter Farmers Market – 10am-2pm. Marketplace on the Green Pavilion, 1995 Central Park Dr, Okemos. Meridian.mi.us/FarmersMarket.

Neverending Lam of Liberation – 7-8:30pm. With Demo Rinpoche. Zoom. Jewel Heart Tibetan Buddhist Learning Center: 734-994-3387. JewelHeart.org.

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WEDNESDAYS

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Allen Farmers Market – 3-6:30pm. Yearround. Stock up on groceries and visit the Eastside Lansing Food Co-Op onsite at the same time. 1629 E Kalamazoo St, Lansing. Facebook.com/AllenFarmersMarket.

Sources of Harmful Radiation:

Mindfulness Meditation: Thich Nhat Hanh Tradition – 7-8pm. All welcome. Van Hanh Temple, 3015 S MLK Jr Blvd, Lansing. LansingCityPulse.com.

THURSDAYS Drum Circle – 4-6pm. Immerse yourself in the rhythmic beats and let the music move your soul. All welcome. Free. Bath Community Center, 5959 Park Lake Rd, Bath. 517-803-2392. For dates: Facebook. com/GreaterLansingAreaDrummers. Rest & Regulate: Trauma-Focused Yoga – 7:45-8:45pm. Join us in-person in Royal Oak or virtually via livestream. Gentle, beginner friendly yoga led by licensed mental health therapist and registered yoga instructor. Learn calming breathwork and somatic techniques. $20. Namaste Yoga Center, 3121 Rochester Rd, Royal Oak. MindfulEmpowermentpllc.com.

FRIDAYS Witch’s Recovery Circle – 11am-12pm. This is not your average recovery meeting. A sacred virtual space for anyone walking a healing path, whether you are in recovery from alcohol, drugs, food, sex, chaos, co-dependency, trauma, or anything else that has disconnected you f rom your power. All welcome. Free. IlluminateUn-

Classifieds

FOR RENT __________________

Eco/EMF shielded home near Grayling available for short to long term stay. Minimal rent/ help caring for dogs & chickens on property. Call 231-714-0477 for details.

HOLISTICALLY RAISED PUPPIES __________________ HEALTHY HERDERS - Full grown male Aussiedoodle, 18lbs, blue merle, holistically raised since taken in as an older pup. Roscommon. NutritionalRC@ gmail.com. 989-275-9976.

LAND FOR SALE _________ PERFECT FOR HOSTING A BURNING MAN-STYLE FESTIVAL – without the mud and storm chaos of this year’s event! Just 90 miles from Las Vegas off Route 93, this 68-acre off-grid desert retreat features 6 domes, sustainable infrastructure, RV site permits, fruit orchards, and unlimited festival permitting. Level land. No flood zone. No drama. Bruce Perlowin. 323-420-6990.

4g/5g Cell Towers/Antennas, Small Cell Nodes, Repeaters, Smart Meters, Electric, Gas & Water, Cell/ Cordless Phones, Wifi, Bluetooth, Computers & Smart Devices.

Symptoms You May Have: Itching/Burning Skin, Digestive Upset, Breathing Distress, Headaches, Nerve Pain, Tinnitus, Trembling, Brain Fog, Agitation, Blood Sugar & Hormonal Imbalance

Make your home healthier today. Call (231) 714-0477 For a FREE phone consult or home survey

Visit EMFinvestigator.com to learn more. January 2026

29

Community Resource Guide

Advanced Wellness NATURE'S TRADING POST

Liberate yourself from suffering. Gnosis is the practical, fact-based knowledge of consciousness that guides us to our full potential and innate happiness.

Covering all of Northern MI NaturesTradingPost.com

Nature’s Trading Post

Offering natural smokeless tobacco options. Delivered f ree within Northern MI.

Offering Northern Michigan the Most Natural Smokeless Tobacco Options! Snus, Loose cut & Pouches (With & Without Tobacco)

Aromatherapy

ROSY GLOW AROMATHERAPY Nicotine Pouches Can Be Used

Margo Aromatherapist As AHertzfeld, Substitute For Certified Patches. 419-360-0169 See Website For More Info RosyGlowWellness.com Contact Us For Free Delivery! Clinically We Also Have Organic Rapeh certified aromatherFresh Fromapist Brazil offers holistic consulta-

Now, for the first time in history, it is possible for anyone to study the most sacred and ancient knowledge. This knowledge is profound, nearly incomprehensible, and ultimately only useful when made practical in one’s daily life. Live it, and the truth will be made starkly evident. Learn more at Glorian.org

Experience is better than belief.

tions with customized blends of professional quality essential oils. Trust Margo to help you understand the complicated world of aromatherapy. Her holistic approach can help you maximize your benefits from this powerful therapy and minimize side effects. Aromatherapy is a wonderful way to integrate natural healing into your life. Phone consultations are available.

naturestradingpost.com

Biological Dentist (989) 275-9976

ANN ARBOR’S DENTIST

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

LIST YOUR BIZ IN THIS WELLNESS DIRECTORY! Text Now for Special Rates! 734-757-7929

30

Greater Lansing

HealthyLivingMichigan.com

EMF Investigator GOOD WAVES EMF INVESTIGATOR

Serving Central to Northern MI 231-714-0477 EMFInvestigator.com

Many unexplained health issues are showing links to Cell Phones/Towers/Wi-Fi (with levels now stronger than bodies naturally adapt to). We detect EMF-related causes by determining sources of harmful radiation & offer solutions to mitigate them. See ad page 29.

Energy Enhancement & Wellness MIRACULOUS ENERGIES

(A Private Membership Association) MiraculousEnergiesAssociation@gmail.com 517-599-4949 MiraculousEnergies.com The EESystem combines Body, Mind, Spirit and Science. This sys te m generates multiple bio-active life-enhancing energy fields, including scalar waves and a morphogenic energy field, also known as scalar vortex. When combined with light as biophotons, it can interface with the body's DNA matrix and promote wellness. See ad page 3.

Health Food Store BETTER HEALTH MARKET & CAFE

305 N Clippert St, Lansing 517-332-6892 6235 W Saginaw Hwy, Lansing 517-323-9186 BetterHealthMarket.com

Michigan's #1 source for organic foods, vitamins and more. Better nutrition at better prices, all backed by better advice from our nutrition experts. You will find; organic produce, all the top-quality vitamins and supplement brands, sports nutrition and proteins, delicious prepared foods, desserts, an organic salads, soup and hot bar, natural bath, body and aromatherapy products, green home products. Get rewards through our APP. See ad page 21.

Homeopathic Pharmacy CASTLE REMEDIES

2345 S. Huron Pkwy, Ann Arbor In the Parkway Center 734-973-8990 CastleRemedies.com Serving Michigan for nearly 40 years. Castle Remedies offers over 1,000 homeopathic remedies as well as herbs, essential oils, flower essences, books, unique gifts and jewelry. We carry top-tier nuitional supplement brands such as Metagenics, Ortho Molecular, Xymogen, Integrative Therapeutics, Karuna, NOW, and more. Classes available online. See ad page 19.

Mold Testing & Remediation MOLDPRO

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

Nature-Oriented Meeting Space MICHIGAN FRIENDS CENTER AT FRIENDS LAKE COMMUNITY

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

We offer the holistic community a nature-oriented meeting space for workshops, meetings, counseling, yoga, youth groups and family gatherings. Main room accommodates 100 pre-COVID-19, with two smaller classrooms and kitchen facilities. Hiking trails. Weekend rates range from $200-$400, additional for extensive grounds use, camping.

Smoking Cessation FREE AT LAST! HYPNOSIS CENTER - A JOYFUL JOURNEY

734-883-8775

Stop smoking in one visit. Afraid it’s going to be too painful or too difficult? Our unique specialized and proven system makes it easy. Become a happy and permanent non-smoker today.

If You Are Reading This, So Are Your Potential Customers.

Weight Loss FREE AT LAST! HYPNOSIS CENTER - A JOYFUL JOURNEY

734-883-8775

Lose weight now with hypnosis. Achieve permanent positive life and habit changes through our safe, rapid and effective system. Tap the potential of your mind to create the health and vitality you’ve always wanted.

Wellness Center WYCOFF WELLNESS

John O. Wycoff, DO 1226 E Michigan Ave, East Lansing 517-333-7270 WycoffWellness.com We provide customized preventative care and lifestyle improvement plans for all patients. We focus on exploring natural solutions to many health problems or concerns, but do not abandon conventional medicine. We provide a blend of traditional and alternative care to help you achieve health and wellness naturally. See ad on back cover.

THRIVE! WELLNESS CENTER

148 S. Industrial Dr. Saline 734-470-6766 Thrive-Wellness-Center.com

At Thrive! Welln e s s Ce n te r S h a n n o n R o z n a y, D C , specializes in Nutrition Response Testing and Activator Chiropractic. Thrive! also carries natural foods, skin and home products. See ad page 25.

Contact us today to start doing more business.

734-757-7929 Publisher@HealthyLivingMichigan.com January 2026

31

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