Sherry Asp, CA Licensed Midwife, says that her business in Reno, Aspiring Birth Midwifery & Doula Services, offers similar services compared to other local midwives and doulas. However, her assistant is a Reiki Master and massage therapist and her apprentice specializes in hypnobirthing. These additional services are always available to her clients, throughout their pregnancy; which offers alternative solutions to stubborn pregnancy-related pains.

Hypnobirthing is a method where mother-to-be can learn to “go inside [herself] and shut off pain receptors while [she’s] in labor,” Sherry said. Reiki is a form of healing where the healer transfers healing energy to the person who is ill, through the palms of their hands. Both of these practices, or modalities, are great tools and resources for moms in their first to third trimester, or even beyond the pregnancy.

The general care that all clients receive includes prenatal care and attendance at birth, by Sherry and her assistant and apprentice. They also receive a newborn exam, breastfeeding support and six weeks of postpartum care, an Ultrasound, lab work, the baby’s birth certificate and social security card filing.

Most insurances companies cover these services; however Sherry offers a cash discount to those who do not have insurance. For those who receive medical assistance from the government, they unfortunately cannot receive coverage for midwife or doula services. In order for the government medical plan to offer coverage, a provider needs to carry a license. However, the state of NV does not regulate midwifery; therefore, they do not offer a licensure program for midwives. It is a catch 22. “That’s a whole other issue I want Nevadans to work on, to get NV Midwifery licensure,” Sherry explained.

Until then, Sherry is working to provide comprehensive maternity care to families planning to birth in the safety and comfort of their own home. The benefits of using midwifery services are bountiful. Patients who utilize her services are more likely to have an un-medicated birth. In general, home births tend to have similar outcomes for low risk moms (normal pregnancy) as they would in a hospital. However, Sherry believes that at-home births provide better outcomes for mom overall (less risk of C-section, episiotomy, hemorrhaging). Plus, “I didn’t have to leave and drive while in labor. I was able to stay in the comfort of my own home. My midwife served me breakfast,” she said.

She was attracted to the idea of at-home births after feeling traumatized during the birth of her niece, when Sherry was 17 years old. She recalled the tubes, wires and needles that were routine with hospital deliveries. Sherry said that she “ended up choosing to have a homebirth with a midwife seven years later with my first child. The experience was so different that I knew I wanted to offer that option to women in my community.”

Currently, Sherry only practices midwifery with at-home birth clients. She primarily works in the Reno and Sparks area and limits herself to three births a month. If it does become a case where her client begins to birth at home and then unforeseen circumstances prompt them to go to the hospital, Sherry knows staff at both of the local hospitals.

Most importantly, Sherry is an easy-going person who is non-abrasive, warm and friendly. She speaks from her own experiences with midwifery and has a good relationship with local hospital staff, which helps some of her clients feel more comfortable. She truly enjoys what she does and genuinely cares about the women she works with, even with the potentially odd hours, long work days and possible weekend and holiday shifts. This attitude is a must in this non-spontaneous profession; you have to be ready for anything. “I really don’t mind being called at 2 am, when women are in labor,” she said. That says it all.

It’s all about creating a safe environment for a person…release their troubles in the world and just be within themselves,” Ross Anderson said, local Licensed Massage Therapist (LMT). His outlook on life, emotional well-being and how he can help other people transcends into the way he practices massage therapy.

Ross views massage as a full healing system for the body. “The massage that I do is a hybrid of all of the styles I know,” he said. He uses traditional modalities, or styles of massage, including Swedish, Deep tissue, Sports and Cranial/Sacral therapy massage. He also incorporates eastern modalities, such as Thai yoga massage, Chinese meridian therapy, Reflexology, Japanese massage (Seifukujitsu) and Qigong.

He uses this blended approach in order to maximize the benefit for his clients. “I view the body as a system, a system of balance. Health within the body is when everything is in balance,” Ross said. His belief is that emotional disturbances create imbalance; this imbalance, or “stuck energy,” remains in our body, creating pain and disease. He uses Qigong, an energy-based martial art, to help rid the body of negative energy. Using reflexology, the meridians and acupressure, Ross can help a person regain balance in their body, returning it to a healthy state of equilibrium.
Ross begins a massage appointment with a conversation. He works to understand his client’s intention of the massage. Some people look to massage for a relaxing and pampering experience, while others want pain relief or use it for rehabilitation therapy. Ross then designs a massage therapy program that will best suit his client’s needs.

From there, the massage begins. As the client drifts into a peaceful state of mind, electronic ambient melodies fill the air. Ross uses music to provide a creative and safe environment where his clients can feel free and explore each thought that passes through their mind. When the massage is completed, Ross allows time for debriefing, so to speak. He does not rush his clients out the door, as he is open to hearing about their experience during the massage. He believes that “a part of the healing process in massage is to talk about what happened.”

He is looking to build relationships with his clients, to work with them multiple times. With that, he is able to create massage programs that will get to the root of any problem they might have, as opposed to simply addressing the symptoms that are present. This type of relationship also offers insight into a person’s emotional status, something that resonates with Ross, as emotional distress hinders overall health.

This interest of truly getting to know someone extends into his personal life as well. He seems genuinely dedicated to being part of a community of people whom he can associate with on an emotional level. By getting to know where they are from and where they are going, he can help them with that process. He also enjoys spending time connecting with the outdoors. Ross hikes, walks and skis. He loves to do back-country skiing in the winter.
He became familiar with the Reno/Tahoe area during annual vacations, visiting family, since he was five years old. He loved the area and moved from the outskirts of Chicago to Reno in 2005 to go to school at UNR. He graduated with a BA in Economics, which helped him in the business side of his massage therapy venture. He is also certified as a graduate jeweler from Revere Academy in San Francisco. Over the past year, he made several engagement rings.
His interest in massage took off after taking classes on Japanese reflexology massage at a local martial arts dojo. He practiced that knowledge on family and friends until he obtained his massage therapy license from Body Being in Truckee a few years ago. He now has a private practice, located in Destinations Spa in Sparks. His hours are Monday through Wednesday and Saturdays, from 8 AM to the last appointment at 7 PM. He charges $65 per hour, which is a competitive price point in the Reno/Sparks market.

Ross continues to work on healing, within himself, to achieve overall health. He feels that it brings clarity to his life, his mind. This act of self-healing is something he can pass on to his clients by offering a positive environment, “a place for people to come and do that process themselves,” he explained.

Have you ever wondered about the new trend in make-up, made with minerals? Vicki Keller, of Precision Blending by Vicki, has the answers that you are looking for. She is a licensed esthetician who is taking make-up to the next level!

Keller graduated from Prater Way Beauty College in Reno, and like many new beauty school graduates, went into the salon business. She remembers hearing her clients say that they had a hard time finding make-up that did not cause break-outs, skin sensitivities or allergic reactions. Not to mention, products that did not break their bank.

Another issue for her make-up customers: discontinued colors. What’s a girl to do when her favorite lipstick color is going to leave her make-up bag forever? That’s where Keller comes in. Her unique products are custom blended to match each client’s skin tone. “When a client comes into my store, they can get exactly what they want, not close to what they want,” Keller commented.

Precision Blending by Vicki specializes in custom blended, pure mineral make-up, custom color lipstick, custom blended perfume and cologne oils, make-up accessories and acne therapy products. Keller guides her clients through the process of finding the right make-up coverage and color, along with the appropriate make-up accessories.

After months of testing and combining many ingredients, Keller created the Precision Blending formula. The make-up itself is comprised of high quality, natural ingredients. It does not contain harsh chemicals or preservatives. It is also a natural SPF. It will not clog pores and it is great for sensitive skin; perfect coverage for acne and rosacea. The main difference between Precision Blending make-up and an off-the-shelf mineral make-up is that Precision Blending is 100 percent natural minerals.

Most of the make-up with “mineral” listed on the label is made with fillers and preservatives. It is important that Keller’s clients know the difference, as she is an advocate of natural make-up. She works to educate her clients, as well as offer a product that is specifically designed for them.

During a customer’s first visit, Keller provides a brief consultation, which consists of a question and answer period for both her and the client. Next is the application session. She will begin to apply a foundation, eyeshadow, blush, etc. that matches their skin tone. If they are unhappy with any colors, Keller works to custom blend the color to suit her client’s preference.

Keller teaches her client how to apply the make-up as well. She welcomes questions and provides a relaxed atmosphere. At the end of the session, she records the client’s information and will keep it on file for future purchases. The consultation/application session is free and the client is under no obligation to make a purchase.

“My clients will look really, really good with quality, natural products without emptying their pocketbooks,” Keller said. Precision Blending make-up is inexpensive compared to department store prices, even compared to Target or Wal-Mart. The difference is the personal and professional attention that her clients receive.

Keller’s goal is to be the best place in the Reno/Sparks area for high-quality mineral make-up, perfume and cologne oils. Precision Blending is located in the West end of the Shoppers Square Mall at Plumb and Virginia. It is open Monday through Saturday, from 10 am to 7 pm, and on Sundays from 11 am to 5 pm.

If you’re looking for custom blended, natural make-up that will fit your budget, Precision Blending is a great choice. Keller provides the time and attention that her clients deserve, she believes that “they have choices on how they look” and most importantly, “that my emphasis is on them.”

Growing up in Trenton, New Jersey, Martin experienced severe health issues including musculoskeletal problems, ulcers and irritable bowel syndrome. He was even told that he would be in a wheelchair by the time he was 30 and would most likely develop cancer. He followed the western medical model and continued to get worse. Trying to find a way to improve his health, he looked for “alternative” methods and ended up in a chiropractic office in his early 20’s. Thus began his journey.

Dr. Rutherford graduated from Wilkes University in Wilkes-Barre, PA majoring in English with a minor in physics. From there, he attended the National College of Chiropractic in Chicago. Since graduating
with his Doctorate of Chiropractic, Dr. Rutherford has spent more than 1500 hours of post-graduate education in Functional Medicine, Functional Endocrinology, Functional Blood Chemistry and Nutrition, Functional Neurology, Spinal Trauma, Scoliosis and Whiplash and more.

Dr. Rutherford came to Reno in 1980. As his practice grew, so did his scope of treatment. Dr. Rutherford began his practice with primarily treating musculoskeletal issues and then moved into more complex multi-faceted concerns.

Today he sees patients who that are dealing with Fibromyalgia, M.S., M.D., Vertigo, Dizziness, Balance Issues, Migraines, Peripheral Neuropathy, restless leg syndrome, ADD/ADHD, autism, post-surgical backs, all varieties of disc conditions and stenosis, Chronic Fatigue, along with other chronic pain syndromes, while maintaining musculoskeletal care.

Dr. Rutherford draws from 30 years of experience and educational background, making him particularly capable and excited to embrace the chronic pain patient. The unique experience of being a patient at Power Health, Dr. Rutherford’s clinic, begins with one of the most thorough, comprehensive and expansive evaluations possible. A complete patient history as well as an understanding of patient treatment goals is vital to the evaluation.

Once the evaluation is completed and the patient is accepted into the program, Dr. Rutherford spends an extensive amount of time pouring over the patient history, exam findings, prior test results, and patient goals to develop a drug-free, neurologic, metabolic, and/or musculoskeletal
(or a combined) approach to correct or reduce the underlying cause of symptoms.

That concept bears repeating – the goal of treatment is not just to correct symptoms – it is, when possible, to determine and relieve the underlying
problem, or mechanism of the symptoms. Part of the treatment includes home program protocols that are centered on self-care, to enhance improvement. This is truly a “holistic” model of care as it involves reviewing all systems of the body and how they have ceased to integrate and “balance,” therefore creating the patient’s unique set of symptoms.

The mechanisms for chronic pain are as diverse and complicated as the patients themselves. Dr. Rutherford feels the typical diagnosis is a little too general for his purposes and he delves very deeply into what the patient is experiencing and which areas need improvement. With that in mind, he hopes to continue to create and offer the community a facility where patients receive evaluations and treatments based on their specific mechanisms and symptoms, not just their diagnosis.

In addition to an already impressive array of therapeutic modalities, Power Health is adding an Allergy Division to the clinic. They will be able to evaluate 96,000 different allergens in seven minutes and begin the process of alleviating the effects of the allergens immediately following the procedure.

Dr. Rutherford stated that he feels extremely fortunate to be able to do this work and is blessed to have the opportunity to expand his understanding of life and people. He is grateful every day to wake up and do what he loves: helping people get better. It is his drive, his motivation.

Nothing is more important than reconnecting with your bliss. Nothing is as rich. Nothing is more real.” (Deepak Chopra).

We are on a quest, whether we know it or not, to know our bliss. Kate Moser has dedicated the last 15 years to the field of energy healing to facilitate and guide her clients to that reconnection while relieving stress, and physical and emotional pain. There is more to the world than what our senses can tell us and there is more to a person than a body and mind. Energy Healing is a way to supplement, compliment and enhance what people are already doing to help heal themselves.

Kate grew up in Northern California. She attended the University of Oregon, Eugene, and received a B.A. in Psychology. She has done extensive training on the Energy Meridians used in Traditional Chinese Medicine at the Acupressure Institute in Berkeley, California.

When Kate was 24 she became very sick with an autoimmune disorder. Not only was she ill, she was unsure and unaware of how to get well. She knows what it feels like to be afraid to try something new. She ventured into her first alternative healing session very skeptical, but because she was not getting results from the medications she was taking and the traditional medical approach, she was determined. What she found was, modalities directed towards shifting energy such as acupuncture, homeopathy and energy healing assisted her to feeling calm, relaxed and increased her body’s healing processes. She knew the positive changes that occurred in her health were directly related to these alternative modalities. Although Western Medicine has its place and is viable medicine, the nurturing and feeling of calm and the improvement in health that she experienced with energy healing was invaluable.

Many first time clients of Energy healing are there because they are battling chronic on-going problems, extreme stress and/or pain, and are looking for something other than Western medicine, or they want an integrative approach. In this work, combined with relief of physical or emotional pain there is also a natural reconnection with the inner Self. This is where deep healing may take place.

Energy healing is an intuitive process that unfolds naturally, and as a practitioner, Kate allows, encourages and amplifies this flow. This work is subtle and deep because it relaxes the nervous system, which will then assist the body’s healing abilities. A session begins similar to what you may expect from a massage, except one wears comfortable clothing. The job of the client is to lie down on the massage table and relax. Healing energy flows from the practitioner’s hands and goes where it is needed. The body uses the energy to then facilitate healing within itself.

The idea is to get the energy in the body to flow and to release blocks and create shifts. As shifts take place and blockages are unraveled, the client will experience a deepening within accompanied by a sense of peace and calm.

What could be more satisfying and gratifying than to be involved in Energy Healing as it gives the gift of reconnection to the inner Self, to one’s bliss. Kate works as a catalyst for healing and for this, she feels truly blessed.

References:

1. Chopra, Deepak. Ageless Body, Timeless Mind. Harmony Books, NY 1993
2. For more info, contact Kate Moser at (775) 412-1835.

Accessing the senses of hearing, smelling, feeling/touching, and vision connects us with our innate rhythms, the very same rhythms or energy that makes up this universe. All energy in the universe is vibrational, forming wave fronts as in sound. A wave front is the physics term for a surface, real or imaginary, that is the locus of all adjacent points at which the phase of oscillation is the same. Dr. Gary Buchanan has dedicated his life to the healing arts through our senses, with a unique and advanced approach called Sonatherapy. Sonatherapy holistically combines sound therapy, light and color, aromatherapy, geothermal acoustic hydrotherapy, subtle energy applications and massage. On a visceral level the body responses to Sonatherapy because it is connecting us with the basis of our structure.

Gary has received degrees and certifications from numerous institutions. He went to North Carolina School of Arts; Academia Chigiana in Siena, Italy; the University of North Carolina; the University of Washington, Seattle; and the Queensland Conservatorium of Music in Australia. He furthered his education with certifications in Cymatherapy, Theology and Divinity, becoming a full-time minister and lecturer.

While at the University of Washington, Seattle, Gary pursued a doctoral degree in music while researching vibrational healing methods, Cymatics, Synergetics, Music Therapy and Musicology, Perception Studies, and Microbiology. He came to Reno in 1979 from Brisbane, Australia, where he had been a professor of music, to pursue advanced studies at the Cosolargy Institute on the effects of light, sound, color and energy on the human organism. Through his continuing studies and research into vibrational Wave Front Composition & Analysis, he found that basic sound and music, as well as light and color applications, are valid and effective methods for self-healing.

By integrating sound, light, color, geothermal hydrotherapy, massage, aromatherapy, and subtle energy applications, he designed Sonatherapy, which creates a Synergetic effect on the body to help alleviate pain, rejuvenate cells and revitalize body functions.

Currently, Steamboat Hot Springs Healing Center & Spa in Reno is the only authorized institution in the world researching and developing the science of Sonatherapy. They also offer training and certification and are working to export this new technology around the globe, from the U.S. to Canada, Central America, the United Kingdom, Europe, the United Arab Emirates, South Africa, Australia, and Japan.

A Sonatherapy holistic treatment begins with a consultation where specific issues are addressed by Dr. Buchanan and the Sonatherapy team, including Steamboat’s staff physician, when more serious and chronic conditions are present. Treatments all take place at Steamboat Hot Springs in an exclusive acoustically designed room. Depending on the ailment, treatments can range from one session to several for chronic health conditions.

There are various sessions available to address symptoms and conditions of pain and stress, depending on an individual’s needs. Healing may occur for conditions such as allergies, inflammation, arthritis, mild to chronic pain, bone spurs, bruising, gland and organ disorders, fibroids and cysts, fractures, hearing problems, joint issues, neurological problems, tendonitis, skin conditions, respiratory disorders, psychological disorders, varicose veins and more. Sonatherapy further improves body function, circulation, assimilation, the immune system, overall muscle tone, acceleration of cellular functioning and balance of psycho-physical health.

Gary’s goal is to continue his research and understanding of healing modalities to relieve the pain and suffering of others. His dedication is grounded in his spiritual background and in contemplating the meaning of existence through understanding higher consciousness.

When dealing with pain, a health condition or problem, it usually is not one particular therapy that helps, but rather a combination. Sonatherapy is just that, a combined therapeutic approach. It is literally a one-stop shop for healing.

For more info, contact Rev. Dr. Gary Buchanan at Steamboat Hot Springs Healing Center and Spa at (775) 853-6600 or on the website at www.steamboatsprings.org.

by Marie Harger |

Stuck? Blocked? Imbalanced? Stagnated? It is Dr. Gary Danchak’s job to identify and resolve just such conditions using the Traditional Chinese Medicine of Acupuncture and Herbs. Many people who come into to see Dr. Danchak are experiencing pain and have often tried everything else. The cause of pain (physical or emotional) is stuck, blocked, imbalanced or stagnant chi/qi (energy/vital force). Dr. Danchak regulates the internal functions of the body via various stimuli such as needles, herbs, moxibustion, cupping and electro-acupuncture. When the circulation of chi/qi flows unimpeded there is a balance between the nutritive (yin) and dynamic (yang) aspects of the body, bringing good health and a feeling of serenity.

Dr. Danchak grew up in Cleveland, Ohio. He graduated from Kenyon College (Gambir, Ohio) with a degree in English Literature and a Masters degree in creative writing at the University of Iowa. He taught at the University of Alabama. Later he moved to Chicago and through a girl friend, who was receiving acupuncture for headaches and migraines due to a car accident, had his first acupuncture experience. While enduring a month of back pain from an injury, he experienced quick remission of pain after his first acupuncture treatment. He was so impressed that he quit his job, that he loved, to go in a new direction with the hopes of helping others to experience the relief, healing and peace he had received through acupuncture.

Dr. Danchak moved to New Mexico and attended Southwest Acupuncture College in Santa Fe for 4.5 years. After graduation he moved to Reno, Nevada and started his current practice in 2002.

Dr. Danchak first introduces acupuncture and herbs to a patient by educating them on what acupuncture and herbs are, what they do, and the theory behind Traditional Chinese medicine. Just like the weather changes in the outside world, we all have weather within us that is dynamic and always changing. When imbalances become ingrained and chronic within, the results are pain or symptoms of disease. There are 12 organ systems (6 yin and 6 yang), which influence our internal weather. Eastern Medicine is all encompassing, considering the physical, emotional, mental, environmental and dietary energetics at play in each patient. The primary goal of Eastern Medicine is to get to the root problem and fix it, not just deal with symptoms.

Dr. Danchak does three types of acupuncture, Traditional Chinese, Japanese Kototama and Taiwanese acupuncture; each employs different degrees of needle stimulation. If someone is afraid of needles he will use Japanese Kotatoma because it uses the finest needles and the least manipulation. Traditional Chinese technique uses the thicker, uncoated needles and stronger stimulation, which can sometimes offer quicker results.

Dr. Danchak will examine your tongue and feel your pulses and then run an Electro-Meridian Image (computerized test) showing a printed graph of the energy he feels in your pulses. The graph/pulses show the relative excesses and deficiencies in the main organs in the body. He then considers other factors that work against us all such as, use of drugs (prescription and recreational), genetics, lifestyle, diet (a major factor) and exercise. He actively researches and tracks results of each patient’s herbal formulas and acupuncture point combinations and adjusts them as needed to maximize results. It is a team effort of Dr. Danchak and the patient to identify root causes of imbalance and eliminate them, strengthening the body’s ability to heal itself.

What surprises patients about acupuncture is that, unlike some visits to a Western Medicine doctor’s office, patients feel a deep sense of relaxation after acupuncture, sometimes so deep that they leave the office without their coats and car keys.

Overall benefits of Traditional Chinese Medicine are the ability to successfully relieve chronic and acute pain, address dietary issues, and adjust the internal functioning of the body.

Dr. Danchak has the satisfaction of knowing he is a force for something good when he works with a patient. Experience the peace and healing of Traditional Chinese Medicine—Acupuncture and Herbs—with Dr. Gary Danchak and change your inner weather so that it is always a sunny day.

For more info, contact Dr. Gary Danchak OMD at (775) 849-9800.

by Marie Harger |

Lao Tzu states, “The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step,” this epitomizes Trudy Miller’s philosophy on diet, nutrition and creating a healthy lifestyle. Lasting changes to lifestyle do begin with one step and she is there to guide her clients on a slow and steady path toward health.

Trudy was born and raised in St. Louis, Missouri. After receiving her BS at the University of Missouri she then completed a Masters in Science at UCLA. She began her journey toward health and wellness in the 1960s where her interests in diet and health began. Involved in food co-ops, reading about health, how to prepare foods, she would gather any information she could get her hands on related to health. After moving to Reno from Long Island, she looked up available classes at TMCC and found the Dietetic Tech program, which was a perfect fit for her.

The Dietetic Tech program was ideal since she already had an extensive background in science with her bachelors and master degrees. Once the program was completed she searched to find her own special niche. She enrolled in an adult weight management program to further her education and focus on the counseling aspect of weight-loss. Her focus became education for health first, then creating change for achieving healthy weight.

Learning about the client is Trudy’s first approach to success. First, a questionnaire is filled out, with medical background, general information about lifestyle (what diets and exercise programs you have tried), and having the client answer important questions such as, “Why am I here?” She then asks for results from screenings, which include blood sugar, lipid profile, and blood pressure. She also records medications and supplements and calculates appropriate weight for the client’s age and height. She also assesses the client’s medical needs, goals, and barriers.

Her next step is to develop an individualized program, based on the latest scientifically based information available. Trudy recommends recording all foods consumed for several days to encourage awareness of what is eaten. Eating real food and cooking meals instead of eating out is crucial. She teaches how to buy, prepare, cook and store food. She also uses spices, herbs, marinades and rubs for taste because no one wants to feast on a bland meal. Planning ahead to prevent a hungry client from eating empty calories is vital to accomplishing his or her goal. Learning to pack a lunch with healthy food and having healthy snacks in the car, are helpful ways to discourage becoming hungry and to avoid eating the wrong kinds of foods and gorging.

Addressing some of the health concerns of today includes scrutinizing the diet and exercise regime of the client. Food combinations such as fat with sugar cause a spike in dopamine, which activates the brain’s pleasure center, creating an addiction and thus leaving the client constantly craving unhealthy foods. Getting most of your vitamins and minerals from a variety of food sources is preferred because the body can extract them efficiently. Exercise is specific to the client and should be enjoyable and fun. Walking and weight training are simple, inexpensive ways to improve fitness.

There are many benefits to Trudy Miller’s services because she provides support as the client adopts a nutritional and exercise program and keeps the client on track to reach his or her goals. She stresses the mind-body benefits from eating well and exercising, such as more energy, the ability to handle stress, better sleep, clarity of mind, a healthy body, heart, and brain. The immune system becomes stronger thus warding off infection and disease.

Trudy realizes most people simply do not know how to make healthy changes to their lifestyle. It is her job to fill in the gaps with education and guidance in a personalized program for each client. She also teaches workshops on topics such as, “Changing your relationship to food,” “Hands-on recipe revival: substituting healthy, tasty ingredients,” and “Turning meal chaos into time-saving structure.” Her main objective is to teach healthy cooking and eating first, so that achieving a healthy weight will come naturally.

For more info, contact Trudy Miller, Food Instructor, MS, DTR, ADA Certified in Weight Management at (775) 787-9010.

Many of us have heard Albert Einstein’s definition of insanity, doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results. If a change in your life is needed either because you want it for yourself or your doctor has recommended it, how can you move forward to a positive end and do that something different? Even if the change is wanted the motivation, resources, and support are often lacking. Deanna Mandichak is a health coach and Physical Therapist whose job is to coach, consult, counsel, encourage, motivate, problem solve, assist in removing obstacles and support her client in moving towards their personal goals to reach optimum health.

Deanna grew up in southern California and went to Cal State Long Beach, majoring in Physical Therapy. At 25 she married and moved to Reno to have a family and enjoy the easy access to skiing. Today her family life is busy with three children all under 10.

With an interest in science, Deanna knew she wanted to help people live better and be healthier. She was fascinated by the human body, which is what drew her to the field of Physical Therapy. She has worked for 17 years in outpatient orthopedics and women’s health. Through this work she began to wonder why some people would get certain illnesses or suffer pain and have difficulty recovering and others would progress in therapy and heal.

She was most interested in prevention, and felt discouraged by western medicine’s approach to health.

Deanna was further motivated by the loss of her mother and aunt to cancer, and how their medical doctors could not help them. She undertook some self-training and education on prevention, and achieving health with the guidance of a naturopathic doctor. During her research, she learned about “Life and Health coaching” as a new and growing arena to help people take control of their own health and achieve their goals. It also allowed her to address and alleviate some of her own health issues. She enrolled in a Coaching school and became certified. Currently, she uses these skills with physical therapy patients and individual coaching clients.

When working with Deanna there is an initial 60 to 90 minute consultation. She often works with doctors who have diagnosed a patient with a disease or chronic illness, to help coach them in making lifestyle changes needed to maintain or improve their health and reach the goals the doctors have prescribed. She also collaborates with professionals in other fields or practices that involves a client in need. In the consultation process she interviews the clients and draws out important answers to limitations.

Services of a coach include delving into issues, discovery of obstacles, problem solving to reach goals. After many available packages, Deanna sets up the guidelines for help, with a face to face meeting once a month, as well as twice a week contact, either by phone or email and a weekly newsletter.

What makes Health Coaching unique is it takes health care to a new level by approaching it from a different angle to give the power back to the individual, patient and client and resolve issues that prevent them from optimum health. This process is very hands-on, and through various exercises one stays on track, via written goals and dates to reach them.

The benefits are many. You will develop self confidence, lose weight, get physically fit, receive relief from ailments, feel empowered, reduce stress, eliminate bad habits, and take control of your health and life, all with the guidance of a Health coach. Having your health means being able to manage pain, stress, weight, illness and to boost immunity and have overall well-being. The ultimate goal is you aspire to have the life your deserve.

The greatest satisfaction for Deanna comes with seeing her clients’ success. Through this process, even when it gets tough, clients tend to respond with enthusiasm because they know deep down they need to make these changes. She is 100% committed to her clients by designing a program that works, and by making adjustments when necessary. She is their coach, there to help them “Self-manage” their condition and to motivate changes to improve health for the long-haul. Stop insanity, don’t continue down the same old path with the same old defeating patterns. Do something different and make that needed change, hire a Health coach and reach your health goals today.

For more info, contact Deanna Mandichak, Physical Therapist, Health Coach at (775) 853-5444.

Specialized! One and only! Effective! These words come to mind when learning about Michelle Bean a NUCCA Chiropractor in the Reno, Nevada area. The NUCCA technique addresses a multitude of health issues and provides the patient with overall body awareness. It is not just about that pain in your back. This work is all encompassing.

Michelle moved to Reno, from Fairfield, Ca. She completed high school and then graduated from UNR in 1999 with a B.S. in Biology. She worked as a clinical lab histotechnologist for 4 years at Renown. Michelle then went to the Life Chiropractic College West in Hayward, Ca and graduated in 2006.

She move back to Reno and became the only NUCCA chiropractor in the area.
Michelle knew being a doctor of chiropractic was the perfect profession for her when she was training for her 1st degree black belt and was experiencing fatigue, and repeated injuries. She thought she was in the best shape of her life but her body was telling her something different. She started to get adjusted from a local chiropractor and her performance peaked, her injuries healed and she went on to receive the best tester award for her group in Martial Arts. Michelle then wanted to help others experience the same natural health benefits from chiropractic therapy.

What is NUCCA? There are many chiropractors to choose from today and how do we know if NUCCA is right for us. NUCCA stands for National Upper Cervical Chiropractic Associate. This specialized work only adjusts the top bone (C1) of the spine in the neck. Here is how it works. The top bone (C1) acts as a lever, and when adjusted, the spine and body then move into balance. It is similar to a ball and chain. The ball is C1 and the chain is the spine. Move the ball and the entire spine is affected. When the top bone (C1) is adjusted the brainstem is relieved from tension. The Brainstem controls the autonomic nervous system, circulation, respiration/breathing, digestion, balance/coordination, equilibrium, pain centers, muscle activity, and all other automatic (unconscious) functioning systems of the body.

A NUCCA chiropractic session generally is quick, with the first visit taking longer for x-rays, mathematical analysis, adjustment and a reexamination of the head and neck with a second set of x-rays taken. This integrated holistic health approach works to bring harmony to the body from the inside out! Michelle adjusts the spine to help relieve muscle aches, joint dysfunction, fatigue, dizziness, and inflammation, which ultimately increases motivation, and functional daily performance. She encourages proper nutrition, exercise/stretching and addressing emotional issues to further support well-being.

If you are stressed physically, emotionally, mentally or chemically, NUCCA is a therapy to consider. Michelle is especially interested in the natural healing capabilities of each person. To relieve pain in the body, whatever the cause, is her main objective. Also, getting to the root of our health problems and not masking them with pain relievers should be a quest for us all. NUCCA work can possibly be that light at the end of the tunnel.

For more info, contact Michelle Bean, D.C at (775) 823-9550.

Virginia Parsons has lived her life doing everything as natural as possible. Growing up on an organic beef farm outside of Chicago, she was part of the “green movement” before it was even a movement. She has been practicing life enhancement services for over 25 years and has an impressive list of credentials to support it.

Virginia holds a Masters Degree in Adult Health Education, is a certified Clinical Hypnotherapist, and is currently a PhD candidate. She has extensive training in behavioral modification, Neuro-linguistic programming and goal achievement techniques. To add to her qualifications, Virginia is certified by the American College of Sports Medicine and The Cooper Institute for Aerobic Research as a Health/Fitness Specialist and Lifestyle Coach.

In many years teaching in Corporate Wellness Centers, Virginia realized that people have great intentions and goals of being healthy, but often life gets in the way. During this time she learned about hypnosis as another tool that can be used toward achieving one’s goals. After intensely studying hypnotherapy, Virginia immediately saw the results working on clients and her own family.

The main approach Virginia uses is hypnocoaching. This is a mix of hypnotherapy and life coaching. Through hypnotherapy Virginia is able to take the client to a state of trance where many things can be accomplished and solutions discovered. She then works with the client outside of the trance to determine how they’re going to take action towards those solutions. Clients are changed and healed on a subconscious level then guided on how to take action and stay focused on their goals.

Virginia’s biggest thrust with hypnocoaching is weight loss. Through hypnocoaching a client is better able to understand their relationship to food, to themselves and their eating habits. Virginia mixes hypnocoaching with weight management and lifestyle programs that have proven to be more effective than weight management alone. Another tool that assists in this process includes DNA analysis kits. Through DNA analysis, you are able to learn such things as predispositions you may have for certain conditions, what is best to eat, as well as supplements to help metabolize your body fat. Ultimately, this is a customized formulation for your body.

The Seven Keys to Self-Actualization unlocks the power of your mind to achieve your Life’s Purpose and deepest desires in all areas of your life. It starts with a Life Guidance Discovery Session and provides the client with a road map of action steps and coaching to help you realize your goals in the Seven Key areas of your life. The Seven Keys to Self-Actualization encourages self-discovery, helps you develop new life skills and facilitate problem solving.

For more than 25 years, life enhancement has been Virginia’s passion. She cares about her clients and seeing positive results. No one leaves her office without a hug. She believes that people posses the power to change their lives, she is simply on your team and wants to see you succeed – together great things are accomplished. By the time a client is finished with Virginia they know they don’t need her anymore and feel confident on their own. They are able to take the tools and apply them to their life on an ongoing basis.

When first beginning hypnocoaching Virginia was surprised with how quickly she saw change when a person was ready. She realized early on you couldn’t make anyone do anything they don’t want to. She requires a minimum of four sessions for a client and this number differs depending on each individual’s needs. She always says to her clients, “pay attention to your thoughts and the words you utter, for every thought there is a central nervous system physiological response.”
Outside of work, Virginia loves hiking, golfing and taking walks. She has been doing yoga for over 20 years and loves to spend time with her family, simply enjoying life.

CIRCLE OF LIFE SPA

By Sara Piccola |

Janie Beach and her mom Sharon Crank have been in business together for over 20 years. As I interviewed them on their latest business adventure, as owners of Circle of Life Spa, their energy and mother-daughter interaction shined. They finished each other’s sentences and mentioned more than once how they love working together and how their individual talents fulfill what the other lacks when it comes to running a successful business.

Janie and Sharon took ownership of Circle of Life Spa in June 2008, they had been members and volunteers at the spa for the previous 4 years. When they heard that the spa might close, they knew it was their time to take over. Janie described the previous owner as having created an empire. So many locals, including Janie and Sharon, relied on the services offered at Circle of Life Spa that they couldn’t let it close its doors.

Circle of Life Spa is a total detox spa. Janie says she didn’t fully understand the power of detox until her own daughter sought detox treatment from her at Circle of Life Spa. Janie’s daughter, age 23, was an alcoholic and was addicted to Oxy Cotton, a highly addictive pain medicine.  In one week her daughter went through a complete detox program with Circle of Life Spa in which Janie literally watched her daughter’s addiction be released from her body. Janie described the experience as scary and unbelievable. Her daughter is still clean today, and Janie tells this story to many of her customers.

The greatest gift Janie and Sharon have received from owning the spa is seeing people who are not healthy or happy, come in and leave a changed person. They’ve helped alcoholics, smokers, cancer patients, drug addicts and many more. They also receive great pleasure from providing a place for healthy people to remain healthy. Everyone can benefit from the spa.

When a new customer comes into the spa they are personally addressed by Janie or Sharon. A custom program is then designed for their specific needs utilizing the numerous services offered. Circle of Life Spa offers: meeting with a nutritional biophysiologist, massage therapy, infrared saunas, a flotation tank, mineral body wraps, Power-Plate (an exercise machine designed by astronauts to increase the work out in a shorter amount of time), dancing, reiki, energy work, and counseling. All of these services work together to detox and heal the body.

Circle of Life Spa is unique in the energy one feels upon entering the spa. Janie and Sharon stressed the importance of their customers and keeping the spa feeling local and more like a family than a business. People feel welcomed at Circle of Life, they don’t feel rushed. They even have customers who come in just to sit and talk, even if they’re not using any services that day. Janie and Sharon have hopes to grow Circle of Life Spa and vow to never lose the personalized touch the spa offers it’s customers.

Janie and Sharon’s biggest surprise with running this business has been in the support they’ve received from past and new customers.  People come in daily that have heard about the spa and the new owners and give thanks and support to Janie and Sharon in their goal of taking over Circle of Life and continuing its success.

Future plans for Circle of Life Spa are merely thoughts right now, but expansion and growth are definite.  A store has been added to the spa as a representation of Janie’s love for angels. Still in the process of receiving products, the store, titled “Wings of a Goddess,” will offer angel figurines, essential oils, candles and crystals.

Outside of work, Janie and Sharon love doing everything outdoors. Janie is an avid Harley Motorcycle rider and loves the summers. However, their main passion lies in providing an all inclusive spa experience to anyone and everyone. They provide everything you could need for a spa day including, towels, robes, flip flops, and even underwear! They make it easy and convenient and love every second of what they do. They look forward to many more years of fun.

By Brittany Russell |

Gregor Johnson, originally from Australia, has made his home in Reno since 1999. He has a 25-year background in marketing and product development, information systems and management. After toying with the idea of owning his own business, Gregor is now the only distributor for Elmore Oil in the U.S. “I always wanted to set up a business with a product I could believe in,” said Gregor.

Gregor attributes his discovery of Elmore Oil to his father who still lives in Australia. “Over the years my father’s arthritis was slowly getting worse,” Gregor said. “In my lastest visit to see my father, I noticed that he seemed to suffer no pain, fingerstall was no longer an issue, his hands were not stiff and he could open jars.” Gregor asked his dad what he was doing to help his arthritis pain. His dad said it was Elmore Oil. Gregor was impressed and could see that Elmore Oil worked.

Gregor began to research Elmore Oil by speaking to pharmacists in Australia, as well as speaking to the inflammation company directly. He found out that Elmore Oil is all natural and is a product that truly makes a difference in the lives of people suffering from pain associated with soft tissue. Elmore Oil excited Gregor, this is the product that he could be passionate about. Elmore Oil is Australia’s best-selling, all-natural topical pain reliever. It is so popular that the company cannot keep the product on the shelves.

Gregor has an M.A. and B.A. from Monash University in Melbourne, Australia, in mathematics, English and philosophy. Over his lifetime Gregor’s careers have afforded him the opportunity to travel and live in great places, including Paris, England, San Francisco, Atlanta, Virginia, and of course, Australia—yet he chose Reno to be his home.

Gregor has been in the US for 34 years now, arriving the day President Nixon announced his resignation. The move to Reno was Gregor’s 36th move in his lifetime, the first move he actually chose. Reno is his home and has met all his wants and needs. “It’s small enough that you can see from one side to the other and meet friendly people. It has all you could ever want for entertainment and theater, ” said Gregor, “the climate is great and better yet, it’s five hours closer (by flight) to Australia.” He lives near the south end of Reno with his wife of two years, Holly.

By Brittany Russell |

From far-away places and a life of variety, June Milligan of Joyful Changes Hypnosis has made Reno her home for the past three years. June offers her clients relief and release from such things as smoking, weight gain, anxiety, stress, self esteem issues, pain and addictions.

June discovered this career path while dealing with her own experience of pain while living overseas. She was diagnosed with a serious spinal cord problem, but in her research, discovered the issue to be a simple carpal tunnel problem. June experienced constant wrist pain at night and therefore had trouble sleeping, so was referred to a hypnotherapist in the U.S.

She has carried this personal experience into the business she now owns, “I figured that if hypnosis worked for me over the telephone, it would work for anyone.” June first teaches simple acupressure techniques to relieve stress and remove emotional charges – such techniques make hypnosis much more effective and powerful.

“By introducing advanced Law of Attraction techniques while teaching acupressure (to relieve emotional pain) then doing hypnosis, the result for the client is powerful, freeing and extremely effective.”  With this multi-faceted approach to relieving the personal ailments and issues of clients, her success has been tremendous.

June is a certified clinical hypnotherapist and certified EFT (Emotional Freedom Techniques) practitioner. EFT uses specific acupressure points on the body in order to clear subconscious emotional blocks that have been recently created or built up over the years. This clearing is effectively achieved using the mind-body medicine technique known as acupressure (no needles).

She attended the University of Ohio Medical School for advanced acupressure classes and has had additional training in Australia and Korea. June has Bachelor of Science and Master of Education degrees and is currently working to earn her certification in Matrix Energetics.

June’s continued education is a testament to her dedication to the health and well-being of current and future clients. She says, “Learning new techniques helps me to become a more effective personal empowerment therapist because people often need different approaches for different issues.”

Outside of Joyful Changes, June is currently working on two books. The first is a children’s book on Greek and Latin roots, and the second book covers how to use the Law of Attraction more effectively by first relieving emotional issues and mental blocks through acupressure. Consciously combining these processes will empower readers to more easily create what they want in life.

Traveling is another of June’s passions. Her more recent trips included Vietnam, Borneo and Brunei. She has collected art, artifacts and carpets from around the world. Describing her years of living overseas as “hilarious or bizarre, but never dull,” June and her travel buddy are writing a book entitled “How I Found Myself Naked among Strangers in Istanbul.”

June’s path has led to distant lands; however, her current location is much closer to home. She grew up in New Mexico and enjoyed that high desert climate so much that after returning to the States she searched for a medium sized city with a low humidity level located near the mountains. When asked why she chose the university town of Reno, she simply said that “it feels comfortable.”

By Brittany Russell |

A Wooster High School graduate, Dr. LeMay is a Reno local. He attended the University of Nevada, Reno, receiving his undergraduate degree in Speech Pathology and Audiology. Dr. LeMay received his Master’s from Southern Illinois University and his Doctorate of

Audiology from Pennsylvania College of Optometry, School of Audiology. Dr. LeMay has practiced in Reno for 21 years, and has been at his current location on Mill Street since 1996.

In his first psychology course, Dr. LeMay observed deaf children receiving therapy, and his passion for audiology took off from there. He strives for accurate diagnosis, fitting his patients with the best technology, and making appropriate referrals when needed.

When a patient comes to Dr. LeMay’s office for the first time, they are greeted by a warm staff. Upon a first visit, Dr. LeMay wants to gain an understanding of why the patient has come to see him, and does his best to get all their questions answered. His patients come from a range of various ages – from toddlers to senior citIzens.

An AudigyCertifiedTM professional, Dr. LeMay is one of the 300 practitioners nationwide who possess the highest credentials and are among the country’s most experienced hearing care professionals. Their experience is measured by their commitment to patient satisfaction, continuing education, and the application of current technologies.

Dr. LeMay is an American Academy of Audiology 2006-2007 Scholar Award recipient, which honors individuals who complete a total of 50 continuing education hours within a two-year period, demonstrate a dedication to the field of Audiology and a commitment to continued professional excellence. “Continuing education is very important,” says Dr. LeMay, “especially when technology is improving and things change so rapidly.”

The Reno Autism Information Network (RAIN) lists Dr. LeMay as “recommended for diagnosing auditory processing deficits in school aged children – Great with kids.”

When speech development has not come as quickly as expected, one might think the child has Autism. If a child is not speaking, or his communication is impaired, the child may, in fact, be suffering from a hearing impairment– differentiating between the two is crucial.

Dr. LeMay works with a local Neuropsychologist and a Speech Pathologist in order to ensure his patients receive the utmost treatment.

Many adults present with difficulty distinguishing key words in conversations. The first step is thorough diagnosis. Dr. LeMay helps these individuals with a personalized treatment plan which may or may not include hearing technology. If a hearing device is indicated, Dr. LeMay provides extensive follow-ups to ensure maximum benefits.

Outside of his practice, Dr. LeMay enjoys Lake Tahoe and spends his time outdoors mountain biking and road biking. He has been married to his high school sweetheart for 30 years and has three children: two daughters, 25 and 23; and one son, 19. Dr. LeMay has two golden retrievers, Holly, 15, and Champ, 5 months – the new puppy transition went smoothly and the two are “best buds.”