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Tina Pickvet, owner at Health, NaturallyNew Owner at Health, Naturally!

Tina Pickvet, ND trained at the Naturopathic Institute of Therapies and Education in Mt. Pleasant MI, graduated in 2013 as a Certified Naturopath, and Board-Certified Naturopathic Doctor. Additional Education: Certified Emotion Code Practitioner, Reiki Master, and Certified Juice Therapist.

Holistic Health for You and Me was founded by Tina in 2009 as a traveling wellness-based business and made home visits to clients on a daily basis. In 2013, she joined Health, Naturally! with Jan Doerr, ND., and traded her office on wheels to renting an office at Health, Naturally! 

As of June 2022, Tina Pickvet, ND has become the new owner of Health, Naturally! to continue helping clients, family and friends on their wellness journey. She believes in preventative health, by keeping the body balanced and free of toxins and stress that can cause health challenges, so we can live a happy and healthy life! Stop by and check out the New Store and specialty products, the Ultimate Total Health Spa, from HTE USA, Optimum Footbath, as therapies and meet our new staff.

Upcoming Events
Getaway at Health, Naturally!
August 27, 2022

9:00 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.


Cost $125.00
Hold your spot with a $75 deposit
8 spaces available
Call the store to reserve your Wellness Day of Pampering!      989-684-9701

August 27th - Getaway Day!

 

Coping with Chronic Pain


Living with chronic pain can be discouraging and lonely. It is easy to feel as if you all alone because it often feels as if no one could possibly know what you are going through. The journey from that first point of experiencing pain, finding answers, and getting the help needed can be long, taking years, in some cases. Many never find the exact cause of their pain and continue to suffer without relief. Most chronic pain sufferers have learned to put on a brave face and mimic what they know normal looks like just to get through most days.

"Chronic pain can feel insurmountable, relentless, and irretractable. It can haunt you; whispering in your ear in the quiet moments and screaming at you when it is at its worse. Chronic pain becomes your constant companion, often awakening you from a deep sleep and tightening its grip on you during the day. The pain can be searing, overwhelming and all-consuming -  scorching you, setting your body and, eventually, your soul on fire until you feel their is nothing left of the person you once were."  - Anonymous
 

Five main lifestyle forms of pain management

One person's journey in searching for pain management techniques:
 
Chronic Pain

1. Movement and Exercise - This is probably my most important coping tool for a variety of reasons. Exercise helps in several ways, both physically and mentally. In my early adult years, I was very active, participating in ice dancing, skiing, and roller blading. Because of the pain, my exercise now involves mostly just walking and low-impact aerobics.

Even if I’m in pain, movement can help me to feel better. Physically, it loosens my joints, keeps me limber, and helps me to stay in shape. Mentally, it takes my mind off the pain, and it provides me with social interaction if I exercise with friends or in a class. If I’m in too much pain to really exercise, just changing positions—from sitting to standing, or standing to lying down—can help reduce my pain.

2. Change of Scenery - Even if I’m not really feeling up to it, getting out of the house, getting fresh air, walking around the block, doing an errand—anything that takes me into a different environment can help reduce my pain.

3. Distraction - This is a tool I adopted almost by mistake—trial and error really. Distraction can involve any activity that keeps my mind off the pain, such as reading, watching TV, knitting, simple tasks like coloring books, etc. I used to feel guilty about how much TV I watched until I realized how effectively it reduces my focus on pain. Distraction may not actually reduce my pain; it just takes me into a different world, thus away from my pain. This may, in fact, be one of the best tools I have.

4. Support Groups - About 2 years ago, I joined a support group for patients with chronic pain. Until I joined this group, I didn’t realize how helpful it would be to spend time with others like me. It’s extremely helpful to know that I’m not the only one with chronic pain. It’s a relief to be able to talk with others who “get it”—who know what I’m going through. Sharing stories, ideas, concerns, frustrations, and hearing the same from others is wonderful!

5. Don’t Over-Do - I have learned that I need to be realistic about my capabilities. It’s critical that I don’t over-do. It’s important for me to limit my activity every day, even on “good” days, or I’ll pay for it later with higher pain levels. I usually try to schedule no more than 1 or 2 activities per day.

For example, I might attend an exercise class in the morning, and then have lunch with a friend. Or I might run errands in the morning, and go out to dinner with my husband in the evening. Even if I’m not having a “bad” day, I must rest in the afternoon—read in bed, meditate, or take a nap. If I don’t take the time to rest my body and my mind every day, my pain will flare up.

Chronic pain is variable, so having a range of tools to use in managing it is critical in successfully living with chronic pain. While I’m in pain every day, it’s not every minute or even every hour. So I need to use the tools in my tool box that will be most appropriate to the day, the hour or the minute to make myself as comfortable as possible.
 

The Challenges of Living With Chronic Pain

As with any chronic illness, chronic pain brings a set of challenges. In this section, I’ll review the biggest challenges I’ve encountered with this condition, and then describe some suggestions I’ve uncovered to address them.

People Don’t Understand - I think the most difficult part of having chronic pain is that most people don’t understand it. There’s a large difference between acute pain, which everyone has experienced, and chronic pain. Chronic pain is not just acute pain that lasts a long time. And because I look well much of the time, people don’t understand that I’m in pain. And if I’m not in pain at the moment, I could be any second. It can come on very suddenly.

Although I don’t want to talk about pain all the time, I do think it’s helpful for the people with whom I spend a lot of time to understand chronic pain and some of its complexity. To understand that I’m not just a ‘baby’ with a low tolerance for pain or that I’m just not coping well. To understand that just because someone else had back surgery, for example, and is now fine, doesn’t mean that I should also be fine.

The Desire to be Normal - Something that I think anybody with a chronic illness struggles with is the desire to be normal. I want to keep up with everybody else, especially if I’m not in pain at the moment. However, if I take on too much, or over-do activities, I’ll pay for it later.
  • Setting Priorities. What I’ve learned is that I need to decide how important an activity is. I ask myself, “Is this activity, event or function worth the high likelihood that I’ll have much more pain later?“ Sometimes the answer is ”yes!” If the grandkids are visiting for only a few days and they want us all to go out on the boat—well, I might just do that! In contrast, if we have guests staying for 2 weeks, I won’t try to go along on every outing. I can’t do everything, so it’s important that I choose wisely.
  • Asking for Help. One of the hardest things for me to accept is that I need to ask for help. Because I have limitations, I must accept assistance from other people even when a person without pain would not need it. Trying to do things that I really can’t will cause problems later that day or evening, even simple things like standing too long at a party. I must remember to use the tools I have to keep healthy.

  • Accepting Special Help. Several years ago, after much encouragement from my doctor, I bought a wheelchair. I absolutely did not want to be that gal being pushed around in a chair, so this was a very difficult decision for me. But it’s been such a great buy! It gives me a known, comfortable, portable chair, and I take it with me almost everywhere I go. I usually don’t use it for transportation, but just for sitting. Do people stare at me? Do people ask me why I have it? Do people think I don’t need it? Yes to all those questions. But I’ve learned not to care; it has been invaluable to me.

Coping With Depression

One of the side effects of having chronic pain, as with any long-term illness, can be depression. Although I’m fairly upbeat most of the time, I definitely struggle with unhappiness—if not real depression—on occasion. As does the pain itself, my mood fluctuates. If I allow myself to look into the future and acknowledge that I’m going to have pain for the rest of my life, I’ll really fall into a downward cycle.

Stay in the day. I try hard not to focus too far into the future, but instead think about all the real blessings I have in my life right now. It’s helpful to follow the Alcoholics Anonymous philosophy of one day at a time. And sometimes it’s one hour at a time, or even one minute at a time. I tell myself, “I just have to get through this one pain flare-up and then things will be better.” While the door to skating and skiing is now closed, the one to arts and crafts has opened up wide!
 

The Greatest Challenge

The final challenge, and probably the one I dislike the most, is when I take it out on my loved ones. I really mean it when I say, “God bless all of the spouses, partners, and close friends of those of us with chronic pain.”

I am so lucky to have my best friend as my husband. He has been through the ups and downs of this disease with me for the full 18 years. There have been times when I’ve been unable to do any household duties, sometimes for several months. Without a complaint, my dear husband picked it all up. And yet, there are times when the pain is so bad that he can get the brunt of it.

Unfortunately, I don’t really have a good solution for this one yet. I hope I always apologize to him afterwards, and that he understands that it’s the pain talking, not me. Probably the best solution would be to remove myself from the situation, lie down, breathe deeply, and focus on all the blessings in my life—most especially my wonderful husband!

There are many challenges, big and small, associated with chronic pain, both for patients and those around us. The key to all of these challenges is for the patient, the partner, and others close to the patient to understand the disease and adapt to it.

While we may have to give up some activities, as well as use help more often than in the past, that doesn’t mean we have to live a poor quality of life. I wouldn’t have learned how to make bead jewelry if not for my pain, because my time would have been taken up with other sports and activities. Life is different for me now, but it can still be wonderful!

How Family and Friends Can Help

When I have an ill friend or family member, I often want to help. I think that’s a natural human desire. But not all assistance is actually positive. After living with pain for almost 20 years, here are my top 3 suggestions for what to do and not do to support those of us with chronic pain.

1. Do Not Play Doctor - Please don’t try to tell me how to treat my pain. I don’t want to hear, ”You must try this drug or treatment. It worked for my hairdresser’s mailman.“ I’m sure you’re trying to be helpful. But trust me, I have a great team of doctors, and we’ve already tried everything appropriate there is to try. I live with this disease; I want to be cured more than you can possibly imagine. It’s great to be sympathetic or empathetic, but please don’t try to solve my problem.

2. Be Flexible - Remembering how variable this disease is, please try to be flexible. Just because my pain levels were good yesterday, and I was able to attend a movie matinee, that doesn’t mean that I’ll be able to do so today. My pain can change from day to day, hour to hour. So if we’re getting together, be prepared for last minute changes in plans. I may have to cancel all together if the pain is really bad. Or I might suggest doing a take-out meal instead of going to a restaurant. I don’t like having to make last minute changes—it’s just the nature of living with this disease.

3. Offer Help and Assistance - Offer help or assistance when you can, but don’t be hurt or upset if I don’t accept. If you’re going out to run some errands, call me and ask if I need any supplies. Especially in bad weather, I can really struggle with going out to the grocery store or pharmacy.

If you have a free morning or afternoon, offer to come over for a visit. I spend a lot of time at home alone, so company can be welcome. Don’t worry—if I don’t feel up to it, I’ll tell you. If I do feel like it, perhaps I’ll invite you to come over for coffee or tea—or even suggest a walk. As I said earlier, a change of scenery can often make me feel better, and this includes having somebody to visit and talk with. And while you’re here, perhaps offer to help with a small chore, such as throwing in a load of laundry. These small contributions can be immensely helpful.

Attitude is Everything

Chronic pain is a disease that requires a lot of lifestyle changes. Managing the pain can feel like, or even be, a full-time job. Each day is different, and I never know what the morning will bring. Fortunately I have a variety of medications, tools, and techniques for managing the pain. I’ll vary the use of these depending on how good or bad it is each day.

Living with chronic pain can be challenging. I try hard to overcome these challenges by focusing on the plusses in my life, not the minuses. This requires creativity, flexibility, and a good sense of humor. Others can support me by trying to understand my disease without judgment, being flexible, and offering help when I want it.

I can cope and enjoy a happy life, with less pain, as long as I have a group of supportive friends and family members by my side.


Source: https://www.practicalpainmanagement.com/pain/living-managing-chronic-pain-patient-story

With Your Hands


by Elena Bernabe
Artist Credit : Claudia Tremblay


Coping with Pain“Grandma, how do you cope with pain?”

“With your hands, honey. If you do it with your mind instead of relieving the pain, it toughens even harder.”

“With your hands grandma?”

“Yes, our hands are the antennae of our soul. If you move them; knitting, cooking, painting, playing or sinking them into the ground, you send care signs to the deepest part of you and your soul lights up because you’re paying attention to it. Then signs of pain will no longer be necessary.”

“Hands are really that important?”

“Yes my daughter. Think of babies: they start to know the world through the touch of their hands. If you look at the hands of old people, they tell you more about their life then any body part. Everything that is done by hand is said to be done with the heart. Because it’s really like this: hands and heart are connected. Masseurs know well: when they touch someone with their hands, they create a deep connection. It is precisely from this connection that healing comes. Think of lovers: when they touch their hands, they make love in a more sublime way.”

“My hands grandma.... how long I haven’t used them like this!”

“Move them, my love. Begin to create with them and everything within you will begin to move. The pain will not pass away. And instead what you do with them will become the most beautiful masterpiece and it won’t hurt anymore. Because you have been able to transform its essence.

MAKE AN APPOINTMENT AT HEALTH, NATURALLY TO DETERMINE THE BEST PAIN MANAGEMENT METHOD FOR YOU. - 989-684-9701

Product of the Month
The Magical Power of Juicing 

juicing
Juicing is the single most powerful way to lose weight, heal your body and literally turn back the clock. 

Fresh-pressed juices are naturally the most nutrient-dense foods on the planet, which means you get an unparalleled nutrient bang for your caloric buck. Fresh-pressed juice is detoxifying, helping you to shed the toxins and build your lean body from the ground up. And fresh-pressed juice is naturally hydrating, which helps stem food cravings and keep you lean and healthy. 
 

Benefits of Juicing and Juice Cleansing 

  • Juicing 2Surge in Your Energy Levels 
  • Weight Loss 
  • Luminous. Glowing Skin and Hair 
  • Brings Out Your Inner Beauty 
  • Better and Happier Disposition on Life 
  • Safe. Fast & Effective 
  • Clearer Mental Focus and Brain Function 
  • Helps Prevent & Heal Chronic Illness 
 


YOUR CERTIFIED JUICE THERAPIST
TINA PICKVET, ND
  • Your Certified Juice Therapist has received extensive training using The Juice Guru Method® and has been certified through the Complimentary Medical Association. 
  • Certified Juice Therapists provide a plan that best meets your overall goals and intentions. 
  • Certified Juice Therapists are here to set up your daily juicing program, provide essential tips, motivation, and coaching before, during, and after your quarterly juice fasts. 
  • This also includes important information on how to end your juice fast properly. 
  • Certified Juice Therapists provide group and individual cleansing programs. 
  • Find out which one will best meet your needs. 

Tina will be offering juice samples on Thursdays.

Complementary Medical Association logo

follow the butterflies
Education
August and September Classes

In-Classroom

August 4 - Bowen work Class with Mary Ann Malek
August 12 - Together Tuesdays - Trip to the Trombley House Gardens. Meet at Health, Naturally!
September 15 - The Energy of Words with Holly

Please call 989-684-9701 to register.


Online Classes

Juicing for Vitality (Flip Book)Juicing for Vitality (Flip Book)
93 pages
$12.95
License Terms: Personal use

Discover the ELIXIR OF LIFE - JUICING! Learn juicing techniques that will help you lose weight, stay slim, look younger, get healthy and increase your energy levels.

Juicing for Exercise (Flip Book)
Juicing for Exercise Flip Book18 pages
$2.95
License Terms: Personal use

Juicing is a great way to get your body pumped and primed for a lengthy workout session. When you juice, you cram loads of essential nutrients into one glass that will power your workout and improve your results. Besides the important health benefits, key plant nutrients give you energy so you perform at your best in your workouts and get the most out of your exercise efforts.

COMING SOON
JUICING PACKAGE (downloads and resell rights included)
Includes the e-books above in PDF format plus a CHECKLIST, INFOGRAPHIC, MINDMAP, AUDIO, VIDEO, SLIDESHOWS, 5 COMMON JUICING MISTAKES - an additional e-book in PDF format and a variety of marketing materials to re-sell these products.
Vegan Butternut Squash Shepherd's Pie

Vegan Butternut Squash Shepherd's Pie

Source
This warm and comforting shepherd's pie uses the best ingredients fall has to offer. With butternut squash, carrots, and fresh herbs this meal will work great on your Holiday table or whenever you need something hearty.
 
Ingredients
  • 1 Butternut Squash (large), cut in half lengthwise with seeds scooped out
  • 1 cup Black Lentils
  • 16 ounce Portobello Mushrooms, roughly chopped
  • 4 large Carrots, chopped diagonally
  • 1 Yellow Onion, diced
  • 6 cloves Garlic, minced and divided
  • 7 tablespoon Olive Oil, divided
  • 0.25 cup Non-Dairy Milk
  • 1 teaspoon Sugar
  • 1 tablespoon Balsamic or Apple Cider Vinegar
  • 3 teaspoon Salt, divided
  • 2 sprigs Thyme
  • 2 sprigs Sage
  • 2 sprigs Rosemary
  • Salt & pepper to taste
Directions
  1. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.
  2. On a baking sheet, coat the open side of the squash with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and a sprinkling of salt and pepper.
  3. Flip the squash upside down so that the skin side is facing up. This will help the squash cook faster as it will steam from the inside.
  4. Place the squash in the oven and roast for 50-60 minutes.
  5. While the squash is cooking, prepare your lentils. Cook them according to the package instructions and add 1 teaspoon of salt to the water. This should take roughly 15-20 minutes. You want them to be tender, but not mushy.
  6. In a separate small pan, make a garlic and herb infused oil. Heat up 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add in half of the minced garlic, and 1 sprig each of thyme, sage, and rosemary. Let cook for 2 minutes and be careful that the garlic doesn’t burn. Once done, remove the sprigs of herbs from the pan and discard. Set aside.
  7. Once the lentils have cooked, drain any excess water, and mix in the infused oil. Stir well and taste for seasoning. Set aside in a warm place.
  8. Prepare the carrot and mushroom filling. In a large stockpot or pan, heat up 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium high heat. Once hot add the chopped onion and carrots. Let cook for 5 minutes until onions are translucent.
  9. Add the mushrooms and let cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  10. Add in the remaining garlic, 1 teaspoon salt, sugar, balsamic or apple cider vinegar, and 1 sprig each of thyme, rosemary, and sage. Continue to cook for an additional 5-10 minutes. Then check to see if the carrots are tender enough to your liking. If so, take off the heat and pick out the herbs. Set aside in a warm place.
  11. Make the whipped butternut squash topping. Scoop out the interior of the butternut squash and place in a blender. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 teaspoon salt, and non-dairy milk. Blend until smooth.
  12. Set your oven to broil.
  13. Now it’s time to assemble the shepherd’s pie in a medium casserole dish! First, layer the lentils, then the mushrooms and carrots, and finally top with the whipped butternut squash.
  14. Place the shepherd’s pie in the oven under the broiler to crisp the top. Depending on your oven, this can take anywhere from 3-10 minutes, so watch carefully. Once it’s crisped to your liking, remove from the oven and serve!

YL Essential Oil DiffuserEssential Oil Diffuser Recipes

Source

Fresh and Clean

This essential oil diffuser blend is wonderful for creating a welcoming atmosphere in your home. It’s bright and fresh:

  • 2 drops lavender essential oil
  • 2 drops lemon essential oil
  • 2 drops rosemary essential oil
Odor Eliminator Essential Oil Diffuser Recipe

We are animal-people, and we’ve had our fair share of “incidences” in our house. Whenever this happens, I like to diffuse this blend. It freshens up the air in no time:

  • 2 drops lemon essential oil
  • 1 drop melaleuca essential oil
  • 1 drop cilantro essential oil
  • 1 drop lime essential oil
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