Integrative Family Medicine of Asheville

Masculinity in the Modern Era
2024-08-29 18:00 - 19:00 (America/New_York) | Wrong Way River Lodge
Masculinity in the Modern Era: Mental Health, Purpose, and Meaning
Why are so many men dying of suicide?
What does it mean to be a man these days?
The changes of modernity are impacting our male children and young men. Join us for a moderated conversation exploring the unique challenges of different age groups. This event aims to shift the conversation on male mental health with new perspectives, insights, and resources. We will explore ways to foster healthy masculinity while discovering purpose and meaning. Join us on August 29th in person or online for this transformative discussion, which will enhance awareness and support for male mental health.
This panel discussion will occur on August 29, from 6:00 – 7:00 pm at Wrong Way’s River Lodge. Ariana Figueroa, NBC-HWC, will facilitate the conversation. The event is open to Integrative Family Medicine members, and attending is free. Please RSVP via this link to attend in person! This event will also be broadcast via our YouTube and Facebook pages. It is not necessary to RSVP for the virtual broadcast.
Speakers:
Derek Rinaldo MA, LCMHC
Derek is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor with a private practice in Asheville, North Carolina. For the past 35 years, in various roles, he has primarily worked with men and boys struggling with trauma, addiction, depression, anxiety, and relationship issues. Derek is trained and uses somatic modalities such as Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction, breathwork, and somatic mindfulness, sometimes called… yoga. Locally and internationally, he also practices and trains other therapists in psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy using Ketamine and psychedelic safety and integration. He is a graduate of programs from the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies/Lykos, and the California Institute of Integral Studies. Derek has led men’s retreats and therapeutic men’s groups, with the ultimate focus on reestablishing actionable, grounded connection with one’s masculine and feminine physical, emotional, and spiritual health. Derek has lived in Asheville since 2002, now with his teen son and his life partner.
Justin D’Avella, PsyD
Justin is a Licensed Psychologist in private practice. He works with individuals and couples locally in Asheville and across California. In addition to his practice, he provides clinical consultation and training to fellow clinicians and advises entrepreneurs and organizations in the mental health and wellness space. Justin is passionate about supporting men in discovering greater clarity, a deeper sense of aliveness, and unlocking a more enriching experience of themselves, their relationships, and their purpose. For more information, visit: drjustindavella.com.
Facilitator:
Ariana Figueroa, NBC-HWC
Ariana Figueroa is a National Board Certified Health and Wellness Coach trained by Duke Integrative Medicine. She works to help patients bridge the gap between personal goals, expert medical recommendations, and the ability to incorporate both into their daily lives. Ariana has previously facilitated panel discussions for Integrative Family Medicine of Asheville. She is passionate about moderating conversations that yield helpful insights, resources, and information.

Community Event: French Broad River Cleanup
2024-07-20 10:00 - 14:00
Integrative Family Medicine of Asheville will be partnering with Asheville GreenWorks for a private French Broad River cleanup! We will be cleaning from Craven St. Bridge to Silver-Line Park in Woodfin. Please utilize parkingalong Craven St. if lot is full.
Asheville GreenWorks will supply kayaks and canoes, along with tools, and safetygear for the trip. Participants will be in the water for this river cleanup, so pleasecome equipped with swimwear, quick-dry shorts, and tops. River sandals,Chacos, water socks, or old sneakers are recommended; bare feet, flip-flops, orslides are prohibited. We suggest participants be aged 13 or older. Remember tobring a towel for the journey home. No prior paddling experience is necessary forthis cleanup event. We're excited to join you in the water!
Please register for the river cleanup by visiting:
https://ashevillegreenworks.vomo.org/opportunity/nbc-hwc-river-cleanup.

Navigating the Mystery and Misunderstandings of Menopause: Evidence-based Approaches for Midlife and Beyond
2024-05-29 18:00 - 19:00 | Wrong Way River Lodge
Feeling bewildered by perimenopause’s twists and turns? Fed up with menopausal woes for yourself or your loved ones? Buckle up for an enlightening panel discussion where we’ll explore:

The initial symptoms that are often overlooked or under-discussed

Insights into the physiological changes occurring during this transition

How medical providers are changing their approach to menopause care

How medical providers are reevaluating the Women’s Health Initiative study

Actional strategies for managing perimenopause and menopause symptoms through exercise, nutrition, sleep, supplements, and prescription options.

Join us to empower yourself with knowledge and take control of your menopausal journey!
This panel discussion will occur on May 29, from 6:00 – 7:00 pm at Wrong Way’s River Lodge. The event is open to Integrative Family Medicine members, and attending is free. Please RSVP via this link to attend in person! This event will also be broadcast via our YouTube and Facebook platforms. It is not necessary to RSVP for the virtual broadcast.
Our panelists:
Liz Frost, PA-C and Clinic Director of Integrative Medicine of Asheville
Liz has been practicing at Integrative Family Medicine as a PA since August 2015. She is particularly interested in women’s health, coordination-of-care for patients with outside specialists, and enjoys meaningful and unique relationships with all her patients.
Brian Lewis, MD, MPH, Medical Director, and Co-Founder of Integrative Medicine of Asheville
With over 20 years of experience in Integrative Medicine, Brian enjoys supporting clients with a holistic approach to their health goals. He draws from lifestyle, herbal, mind-body, and conventional Western medical approaches. He is the co-founder and medical director of Integrative Family Medicine of Asheville.

Heart-Centered Meditation Series
2024-04-19 08:00 - 08:30
Looking to experience less stress and more peace in your day-to-day life? In many spiritual practices, the heart center is a key to diving into deeper states of consciousness. The heart-centered meditation (HCM) is different from other meditation practices (mindfulness based, Zen meditations, etc.) in that it uses four attributes—compassion, innate harmony, healing presence and unconditional love—to connect to the heart space.
Dr. Aneela Cox will be guiding a Heart-Centered Meditation series on Fridays, between 8:00 – 8:30 AM from January–March 2024. This is offered exclusively to Integrative Life and Employee Health Plan members, free of charge. You may attend as many or few sessions as you wish. To register for the series, please RSVP via this link. You will receive the Zoom information in the registration confirmation email.
The Heart-Centered Meditation (HCM) was given to Dr. Cox by her teacher, Dr. Ann Marie Chiasson, the fellowship director at the Andrew Weil Center of Integrative Medicine. Dr. Chiasson shared that “We must polish the heart everyday,” a process facilitated by HCM. Dr. Cox has practiced and taught various styles of meditations over the past decade and feels called to once again share HCM with the our clinic members.

Spring Community Health Challenge
2024-04-15 - 2024-05-15
Spring forward with a boost to your health and well-being!
On April 15th, Integrative Family Medicine of Asheville will begin our Spring Community Health Challenge. We will host the Challenge on our new Community Page and virtual platform: Integrative Academy*!
Designed by our team and facilitated by our health coach, Ariana Figueroa, the Spring Community Health Challenge will offer guidance through daily emails and accountability through weekly virtual check-ins. Participants can connect to each other while receiving support with making changes in movement, nourishment, stress management, and connection. *Those who register will receive a welcome email the week before the Health Challenge begins, with a prompt to create your Integrative Academy account.
The Health Challenge is open to any Integrative Life or Employee Health Plan Member, free of charge. To register, please follow this link—deadline is April 15, 2024.

Sensual Thriving: Health, Sex, and the Hard Questions
2024-02-28 18:00 - 19:00 | Wrong Way River Lodge
Discussing sex and sensuality can be awkward. Do you have questions that are too uncomfortable to ask? Or perhaps you simply haven’t had the forum to explore these topics? Our expert panel is here to help! They will approach these topics with a fun and informative edge. In the upcoming panel discussion, they will address the following:

Your anonymously submitted questions
Sexuality during chronic illness
How to nurture your sexuality and sensuality
Sexual health anatomy
Tips and strategies for enhancing pleasure and intimacy

Discover the key to enhancing your sensuality and health. Submit your questions, get some answers, and gain the knowledge you've been seeking!
This panel discussion will take place on Wednesday, February 28, 2024, from 6:00-7:00 pm at Wrong Way’s River Lodge. There is no cost for attending in person; however, space will be limited. Please RSVP to attend in person, and submit questions, via this link! This event will be broadcast virtually for free via our Facebook and YouTube platforms! It is not necessary to RSVP if you plan to join virtually.
Our panel of experts:

With over a decade of expertise in men's pelvic and sexual health, Dr. Susie Gronski is a Licensed Doctor of Physical Therapy, Certified Pelvic Rehabilitation Practitioner, AASECT Certified Sexuality Counselor and Educator, and owner of a multidisciplinary men’s pelvic health clinic in Asheville, NC

Faith Laux is a Somatic Sex, Love, and Relationship coach based in Asheville, NC. She helps her clients connect deeply to the eros, wisdom, and enchantment of their bodies. In May of 2022, she was diagnosed with stage 4 colon cancer. Since then, she has been adding pleasure as a healing modality to help her and her clients thrive and enjoy life. Faith is here to normalize the conversation around sexuality, aging, illness, and desire.

Tea Tasting & Intention Setting Ceremony
2024-01-27 10:00 - 23:00 | Wrong Way River Lodge
Join Dr. Brian Lewis for a contemplative tea tasting ceremony to reflect on the past and prepare for the future. We will explore a variety of teas from around the world while journaling about the events of the past year and setting intentions for the new year. Enjoy the warmth of tea and community as we celebrate renewal in the dark of Winter.
This event will take place on Saturday, January 27, 2023, from 10:00 AM–11:00 AM at Wrong Way’s River Lodge. The event is open to Integrative Family Medicine members, and there is no cost for attending. Space is limited to 15 participants. Please RSVP. Further information will be provided to those that RSVP. This event will not be recorded.
To learn more about our community class series, please check out our calendar. For another resource on setting intentions, read through our latest blog post on goal-setting!

Winter Community Health Challenge
2024-01-09
Ready to make some changes? Join our 2024 Winter Community Health Challenge, and:

Join other Integrative Life Members on a 30-day wellness journey
Receive support in how to make sustainable changes to boost your well-being
Get guidance on making changes in the areas of: movement, nourishment, stress management, and connection

Facilitated by our health coach, Ariana Figueroa, this Challenge will offer group support, accountability, and guidance in the form of daily emails and a weekly Zoom group coaching session. The Challenge will run from January 8 – February 5, 2024.
The Health Challenge is open to any Integrative Life or Employee Health Plan Member, free of charge. To learn more or register—deadline is December 31, 2023—please email reboot@integrativeasheville.org.

Teens, Screens, and Drugs: Updating the Conversation
2023-12-13 18:00 - 19:00 | Wrong Way River Lodge
Worried about your teen? Many parents share your concerns about:

Fentanyl, THC, & Delta “concentrates”
Social Media apps
Boundaries around screen time use
How to talk to teens and kids about these issues

We offered a similar event last December and due to popular demand, we are updating the conversation! In this moderated conversation between Beth Hockman, M.S. and Kriya Lendzion, LCMHC, LCAS, CPS, we will explore:

How screens affect child and teen health
The realities of today’s drug scene
How to have impactful conversations with your family about these issues

This discussion will take place on Wednesday, December 13, 2023, from 6:00-7:00 pm at Wrong Way’s River Lodge. There is no cost for attending; however, space will be limited. Please RSVP via this link. This event will be broadcast virtually for free via our Facebook and YouTube platforms.
Beth Hockman, M.S. is a parent coach, educator, facilitator, TEDx speaker, and homeschool mom. Beth has been in the experiential education field for over 28 years. She uses her experience and philosophical understanding of the experiential education field to write curriculum and consult for various organizations. She has a B.S. in Social Psychology and an M.S. in Experiential Education from Minnesota State University. Beth has worked for various adventure education programs—including 18 years with Outward Bound in both the U.S. and Africa. She is one of the founders of Asheville TAASC, a youth-based non-profit that combines the power of wilderness leadership and service learning into value-forming experiences for young people. Beth has worked as both a High School teacher and as an Academic Director. She believes in educating the whole person.
Kriya Lendzion, LCMHC, LCAS, CPS has journeyed from her own years as a “hot mess” teen in high conflict with her parents to becoming one of the nation’s leading youth addiction and prevention specialists. She has been a school counselor, adolescent therapist, and drug and alcohol educator for over two decades. As a parent coach, speaker, and author, Kriya empowers adults to be “teen whisperers” with the youth in their lives, to help “addiction-proof” them for an increasingly risky and addictive world. Humorously known as “The Drug Lady” in our community, she regularly conducts drug and addiction education at several schools across Buncombe County and provides parent and family coaching, consulting, and training across the country. Kriya is currently the Middle School Counselor at Rainbow Community School and French Broad River Academy for Girls.
Ariana Figueroa, NBC-HWC is the Health Coach and Community Class Coordinator for Integrative Family Medicine of Asheville. She is passionate about fostering authentic conversations, whether that be in her coaching work, or facilitating a panel discussion!

The Art of Letting Go: Supporting Grief and End of Life Care
2023-11-30 18:00 - 19:00 | 180 Amboy Rd, Asheville, NC 28806, 180 Amboy Road, Asheville, NC, 28806, United States
We invite you to join us for a panel discussion on community support for grief and end of life care. We will explore our modern relationship to death and grief with experts from The Center for Conscious Living and Dying. The CCLD offers workshops, training, and retreats for those seeking support to bring death awareness into their lives and to live with authenticity and presence. They also provide opportunities to prepare for death and better understand the dying process. Gain valuable insights into the ways our community can come together to provide compassionate care for individuals nearing the end of life and for those who are grieving the loss of a loved one.
This panel discussion will occur on Thursday, November 30, 2023, from 6:00-7:00 pm at Wrong Way’s River Lodge. If you are interested in attending the class, please RSVP via this link. The class is free for Integrative Life Members. There is a suggested donation of $5 for non-members. Donations will go to our monthly non-profit beneficiary.
Dr. Aditi Sethi is a hospice and palliative care physician, end-of-life doula, and musician. She is the founder and executive director of Center for Conscious Living & Dying. Featured in the forthcoming film The Last Ecstatic Days, Aditi is an emerging and important voice for shifting our culture’s understanding and approach to dying, death, and bereavement care.
Clare Duplace is an End of Life and Bereavement Doula, a Creative Grief Practitioner, and a grief consultant through The Institute for the Study of Birth, Breath, and Death, and she holds certifications in numerous grief and death-related practices. She received an MA in Mindfulness Studies from Lesley University and is training to become a grief movement guide. Clare shares the vision of shifting the paradigm and showing up for all involved in end of life care and bereavement situations. To learn more about Clare’s work, visit her website.

Summer Community Health Challenge
2023-10-18 - 2023-11-17 | Integrative Family Medicine of Asheville, 372 Depot St. Suite 10, Asheville, 28801, United States
Is nurturing your health a priority? Then dive into the sunny season with a refreshing jumpstart to your summer wellness journey! Together, we’ll explore the key elements of summer vitality: movement, nourishment, stress-management, and meaningful connections. Throughout the challenge, you’ll receive daily inspiration straight to your inbox, offering tips, tricks, and motivation to keep you on track and fully immersed in your wellness goals. The program also includes group Zoom calls, a Carrier Park Walk, and drop-in Zoom “office hours” with our health coach, Ariana Figueroa, who will facilitate the challenge. Join us on this journey to a healthier, happier you, and make this your most vibrant and fulfilling summer yet!
The Health Challenge is open to any Integrative Life or Employee Health Plan Member, free of charge. To learn more or register—deadline is July 7, 2023— follow this link. Dates: July 10 – August 9, 2023.
We see that health problems exist on many levels, including mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual. As integrative physicians, we partner with patients to understand and address the personal, underlying causes of illness. We view nutrition, fitness, stress management, and healthy relationships as the foundation of an optimal lifestyle. Our team of providers works together to develop individualized approaches that address the whole person. Using an evidence-based approach, we work across disciplines to determine optimal treatment plans. Our job is to effectively treat our patients in a manner that will result in the least possible side effects and the greatest opportunity for healing.

2023 Fall Community Health Challenge *Free!
2023-09-25 - 2023-10-25
Transform your experience of autumn with our Supported Health Challenge! This integrative program empowers positive lifestyle changes in movement, nourishment, stress-management, and connection. Get daily email inspiration, valuable tips, and group support to achieve your goals. Receive additional support through weekly Zoom sessions, a group walk at a local park, and guidance from our health coach, Ariana Figueroa. Step into the circle of our Fall Community Health Challenge and elevate your well-being to new heights this season!
This Challenge is open to any Integrative Life or Employee Health Plan Member, free of charge. To register—deadline is September 22, 2023— follow this link: https://integrativefamily-med-asheville.as.me/?appointmentType=38741978. Dates: September 25 – October 25, 2023.
At Integrative Family Medicine, we believe patients deserve better than the current state of the American health care system. Our mission is to provide a better alternative to the status quo and help our patients achieve their full potential for wellness. This is why we established the first Direct Primary Care practice in Western North Carolina. Our caring staff— including doctors, physician assistants, nurse practitioners, a health coach, nutritionist, and an exceptional support team—offers our community an accessible, collaborative, evidence-based approach to health care.

An Introduction to Community Gardening
2023-08-18 18:30 - 19:30 | Dr. John C Wilson Community Garden, 99 White Pine Drive, Black Mountain, 28711, United States
Curious about gardening and backyard foraging? Eager to connect to your community and the natural world around you? Join Lucille Nelson, Dr. John Wilson Community Garden Manager, for an interactive workshop on the many benefits of gardening, including: fostering resilience, improving health, and promoting community-building. Learn how to identify and forage common edible weeds—like plantain, dandelion, and violet—and make friends with the "weeds" all around us. This class will not only help you thrive in your own garden but also enrich your daily life and surrounding community!
If you are interested in attending the class, please RSVP by 12:00 pm on Friday, August 18th, 2023 by following this link.
Native to Black Mountain, Lucille Nelson grew up among exuberant friendships with river rocks, salamanders, and wood sorrel. In a pursuit for good food, she began learning about America’s agricultural landscape in college, finding her way to farming and gardening. She interned in 2018 at the Dr. John Wilson Community Garden with previous manager, Diana McCall, and returned to manage the garden in 2022. She is passionate about the way small connections can add up and believes community gardens are one part of the solution to our world’s myriad problems surrounding food security and wellness.
At Integrative Family Medicine, we believe patients deserve better than the current state of the American health care system. More people should have access to medical care that is focused on the needs of patients, not on the requirements of insurance companies. We all deserve health care that is empowering, comprehensive, and sustainable. Our team of providers works together to develop individualized approaches that address the whole person. To learn more about the monthly community class series offered by Integrative Family Medicine of Asheville, join our newsletter! You can sign up by clicking here.

Qigong with Lara Ferguson Diaz, L.Ac.
2023-08-15 09:00 - 10:00 | May–September, as weather permits, Qigong class is held outside at the park on the corner of Charlotte St. and Macon St., adjacent to St. Mary’s Episcopal Church. Otherwise, class it at Budo Mountain Martial Arts at 640 Merrimon Ave., Suite 207
Medical Qigong classes are taught each Tuesday from 9:00 am-10:00 am at Dragon Phoenix in Reynolds Village at 2 Weaverville Rd, Unit 102, across from Baked Pie Company. Cost is $15, and classes are taught by Lara Ferguson Diaz, L.Ac., Dipl.O.M.

Join Lara’s email list for updates on summer classes in the park and fire gatherings by emailing a request to lara@luteaherbs. Updated information also available at www.luteaherbs.com/Qigong.

Lara Ferguson Diaz, L.Ac., Dipl.O.M. (NCCAOM) offers acupuncture at Suite 20, adjacent to the main Integrative Family Medicine clinic. She has studied Qigong since 2005 in the Jade Purity tradition and draws from her studies with Jeffrey Yuen, Tracey Peck, Alex Feng, David Coon, and others. Each class explores the forms in slow, gentle movements while focusing on breath, intention, and posture.
For more information or up-to-date information on classes, please call or text Lara at (828) 582-5403.

How to Plan Outdoor Adventures With Kids! With Beth Hockman, M.S.
2023-07-12 18:00 - 19:00 | Wrong Way River Lodge
Whether you’re planning a hike, a camping trip, or a day at the beach, this class will provide you with the tools and knowledge to make it a positive experience for the whole family. In this class, we will cover everything you need to know to make your next family outing a success. We’ll discuss different types of outdoor activities, safety tips, and how to keep your kids engaged and excited throughout the adventure. Join us and learn how to plan outdoor adventures that your kids will love!
If you are interested in attending the class, please RSVP prior to July 12th at 12:00pm by following this link. The class is free for Integrative Life Members. There is a suggested donation of $5 for non-members. Donations will go to our monthly non-profit beneficiary.
Beth Hockman, M.S. is a parent coach, educator, facilitator, TEDx speaker, and homeschool mom. Beth has been in the experiential education field for over 28 years. She uses her experience and philosophical understanding of the experiential education field to write curriculum and consult for various organizations. She has a B.S. in Social Psychology and an M.S. in Experiential Education from Minnesota State University. Beth has worked for various adventure education programs—including 18 years with Outward Bound in both the U.S. and Africa. She is one of the founders of Asheville TAASC, a youth based non-profit that combines the power of wilderness leadership and service learning into value forming experiences for young people. Beth has worked as both a High School teacher and as an Academic Director. She believes in educating the whole person.
At Integrative Family Medicine, we believe patients deserve better than the current state of the American health care system. More people should have access to medical care that is focused on the needs of patients, not on the requirements of insurance companies. We all deserve health care that is empowering, comprehensive, and sustainable. Our mission is to provide a better alternative to the status quo and help our patients achieve their full potential for health and wellness. This is why we established the first Direct Primary Care practice in Western North Carolina. Our caring staff— including doctors, physician assistants, nurse practitioners, a health coach, nutritionist, and an exceptional support team—offers our community an accessible, collaborative, evidence-based approach to health care.

What’s Up With Erections? Having the Hard Talk About What Works for Erectile Dysfunction
2023-06-28 18:00 - 19:00 | Wrong Way River Lodge
Erectile dysfunction (ED) affects individuals worldwide, making it a pervasive issue that affects the lives of many people at some point. But did you know that ED can be more than a standalone concern? Join our esteemed panel of experts as they delve into the fascinating realm of ED, unraveling its mysteries and shedding light on its potential implications for overall health. Get ready for an engaging and enlightening discussion on treatment options, cutting-edge insights into the anatomy of ED, and the integration of holistic approaches for comprehensive care.
To register for this event, please RSVP via this link by 12:00 pm on June 28th. This panel discussion will take place at Wrong Way’s River Lodge, from 6:00 – 7:00 pm on Wednesday, June 28, 2023
Our Panelists:
Dr. Brian Lewis, MPH, MD
With over 20 years of experience in Integrative Medicine, Brian enjoys supporting clients with a holistic approach to their health goals. He draws from lifestyle, herbal, mind-body, and conventional Western medical approaches. He is the co-founder and medical director of Integrative Family Medicine of Asheville.
Dr. Susie Gronski, PT, DPT
Specializing in men’s pelvic and sexual health for over a decade, Susie is a Licensed Doctor of Physical Therapy, Certified Pelvic Rehabilitation Practitioner, AASECT Certified Sexuality Educator and sexuality counselor, an international teacher, author, and owner of an exclusive Men’s Pelvic and Sexual Health Clinic in Asheville, NC
Lainie Givens, OTR/L, CPHS
Lainie is a Licensed Occupational Therapist and Certified Pelvic Health Specialist. She embodies a holistic approach to care and considers the whole person to help them get back to what is meaningful in their life. Her goal is to help people connect with and regain function and confidence in their own bodies, especially “down there”.

Clean Streams Day: An Asheville GreenWorks Volunteer Opportunity
2023-05-20 12:00 - 17:00 | 180 Amboy Rd, Asheville, NC 28806, 180 Amboy Road, Asheville, NC, 28806, United States
Do not miss out on this volunteer opportunity! We are excited to support our donation recipient for May, Asheville GreenWorks, as they coordinate the 47th annual Clean Streams Day! Join a group of GreenWorks volunteers to paddle and pick up litter. Volunteers must be 13 years or older. The event will culminate in an after-party at Wrong Way Campground! For more information and to register for a spot, visit the GreenWorks website!

Myths and Truths of Eating Disorders
2023-04-27 18:00 - 19:00
Join us for the opportunity to learn from two regional experts on eating disorders. This virtual class will explore the myths and truths of disordered eating and eating disorders, discover the signs and symptoms to be aware of, and learn how to give and receive support when there may be a concern. Expand your knowledge and gain valuable insights with this virtual event.
“With 1 death every 52 minutes occurring in the U.S. as a direct result of an eating disorder, eating disorders have the second highest mortality rate of any mental illness. With early intervention, full recovery is possible. With treatment, the mortality rate of people with serious eating disorders falls from 20% to 2-3%.”
– Carolina Resource Center for Eating Disorders
If you are interested in attending the class, RSVP prior to April 27 at 5:00 pm by following this link. The class is free for Integrative Life Members.
Simone Seitz’s professional expertise spans marketing, small business, events, projects, and nonprofit management. Her passion for collaboration and building strong relationships, combined with her personal history of disordered eating, drive Simone to make a difference as the Executive Director of the Carolina Resource Center for Eating Disorders. Carolina Resource Center for Eating Disorders (CRC for ED) is the only nonprofit in NC providing education, resources, and support to individuals, families, and professionals concerned with disordered eating and recovery from eating disorders.
Christy Maloney is a Charlotte, NC-based Registered Dietitian specializing in helping those with eating disorders and disordered eating. Christy earned a BS in psychology from Wingate University and completed coursework for a BS in Human Nutrition plus a dietetic internship. Since 2011 she has been a RD, initially working in clinical settings at hospital systems in South Carolina. After two clinical years, Christy worked at the Renfrew Center for Eating Disorders, honing her skills and developing a career in this field. Next she worked in private practice, contracting with a local company treating eating disorders and disordered eating. In 2019 she opened her own practice devoted solely to the treatment of eating disorders at an outpatient level. Christy has become a Certified Eating Disorders Registered Dietitian – Supervisor (CEDRD-S), now the CEDS-S certification. She also is an iaedp-approved supervisor for other dietitians looking to obtain their CEDS certification.

Spring Community Health Challenge
2023-04-10 - 2023-05-10
Looking to jumpstart your health journey? Join our Spring Community Health Challenge! This 4-week program will help you make positive changes in the health foundations of:

Nutrition
Exercise
Stress resilience
Connection (to the people & things that matter most in your life)

Throughout the Challenge our health coach will provide personalized support, instructions, and guidance to help you adjust your lifestyle. You will learn how to:

Manage stress
Make healthier food choices
Find time for meaningful connection and exercise.

At the end of the program, you will have the tools and strategies to create lasting improvements. Don’t miss this opportunity to make positive changes and feel your best! Sign up for the Spring Community Health Challenge today!
The Health Challenge is open to any Integrative Life or Employee Health Plan Member, free of charge, and will run from April 10 – May 10, 2023. To learn more or register—deadline is April 7, 2023— follow this link.

Heart Centered Meditation with Dr. Aneela Cox
2023-03-10 08:00 - 08:30 | Zoom
Looking to experience less stress and more peace in your day-to-day life? In many spiritual practices, the heart center is a key to diving into deeper states of consciousness. The heart-centered meditation (HCM) is different from most meditation practices (mindfulness based, Zen meditations, etc.) in that it uses four attributes–compassion, innate harmony, healing presence and unconditional love–to connect to the heart space. This meditation also uses the Karunesh Heart Chakra Meditation soundtrack to deepen the practice.
Dr. Aneela Cox will be offering a Heart-Centered Meditation series between January 19 and March 10, 2023, on Thursdays at 12:00 pm, and Fridays at 8:00 am, with the exception of holidays. This is offered exclusively to Integrative Life and Employee Health Plan members, free of charge. Registration in advance of the first session you wish to attend is required. Here is the link to register for the Thursday meditations at 12:00 pm, and here is the link to register for the Friday meditations at 8:00 am. You will receive a confirmation email with the Zoom link for joining.
The heart-centered meditation was given to Dr. Cox by her teacher, Dr. Ann Marie Chiasson, the fellowship director at the Andrew Weil Center of Integrative Medicine. Dr. Chiasson shared that “We must polish the heart everyday,” a process facilitated by HCM. Dr. Cox has practiced and taught various styles of meditations over the past decade and feels called to once again share HCM with the our clinic members.

Live Cooking Demonstration with Tom Everts, PA-C
2023-01-26 18:00 - 19:00 | Wrong Way River Lodge
Join us for a cooking demonstration with interactive conversations about the wonders of food. For live participants, we will discuss what works for you in the kitchen, what foods make you feel best as an individual (everyone’s different), and much more!
Tom graduated from Florida Gulf Coast University in 2009 with a focus in biology and chemistry. He completed his physician assistant studies at Nova Southeastern University in 2013, finishing up his clinical experience in Colorado where he would spend the next seven years working in a community health center. Tom discovered early on in his career that using the tools of lifestyle medicine helped his patients live their best lives. This realization led him to pursue certification in functional medicine through the Institute of Functional Medicine. Tom has extensive experience using integrative and lifestyle medicine to manage both acute and chronic conditions with a wide range of patients. He has developed integrative medicine programs for individuals and groups and is known for his patient-focused, team-based approach. He believes that by truly listening to his patients, he can help guide them in a way that fits their individual needs.
If you are interested in attending the class in person, please RSVP prior to January 26th at 12:00pm by following this link. The class is free for Integrative Life Members. There is a suggested donation of $5 for non-members. Donations will go to our monthly non-profit beneficiary.

Community Health Challenge
2023-01-02 - 2023-01-31 | Zoom
Launch into the New Year with a comprehensive boost to your health and well-being! Beginning on January 2, 2023, Integrative Family Medicine will offer our first ever Community Health Challenge. Participants will receive guidance on making changes in the areas of: movement, nourishment, stress management, and connection. by our health Facilitated, Ariana Figueroa, this Challenge will offer group support, accountability, and guidance in the form of daily emails and a weekly Zoom group coaching session. There will also be a virtual cooking demonstration, offered by Tom Everts, PA!
The Health Challenge is open to any Integrative Life or Employee Health Plan Member, free of charge. To learn more or register—deadline is December 31, 2022—please email reboot@integrativeasheville.org.

“Teens, Screens, and Drugs: What to Know and How to Start the Conversation” with Beth Hockman, M.S. and Kriya Lendzion, LCMHC, LCAS, CPS
2022-12-07 19:00 - 20:00 | Wrong Way River Lodge
The pandemic has dramatically changed our children’s relationship to screens, and pandemic-related stresses have led to an increase in substance use among kids.
In response, Integrative Family Medicine of Asheville is hosting a panel discussion with two local experts on parenting and addiction. This discussion will help parents who are:

Tired of battling with their kids about screens and technology

Concerned about the social and neurologic effects of screens and social media

Seeking to understand current substances available to kids and their risks

Wishing to engage in meaningful discussions about risks and healthy choices

In this moderated conversation between Beth Hockman, M.S. and Kriya Lendzion, LCMHC, LCAS, CPS, we will explore child and teen screen health, the realities of today's drug scene, and how to have impactful conversations with your child about these issues.
This panel discussion will take place on Wednesday, December 7, 2022, from 7:00-8:00 pm at Wrong Way’s River Lodge. There is no cost for attending; however, space will be limited. Please RSVP by registering via this link. Face masks are optional.
This event will be broadcasted virtually for free as well via this link.
Beth Hockman, M.S. is a parent coach, educator, facilitator, TEDx speaker, and homeschool mom. Beth has been in the experiential education field for over 28 years. She uses her experience and philosophical understanding of the experiential education field to write curriculum and consult for various organizations. She has a B.S. in Social Psychology and an M.S. in Experiential Education from Minnesota State University. Beth has worked for various adventure education programs—including 18 years with Outward Bound in both the U.S. and Africa. She is one of the founders of Asheville TAASC, a youth based non-profit that combines the power of wilderness leadership and service learning into value forming experiences for young people. Beth has worked as both a High School teacher and as an Academic Director. She believes in educating the whole person.
Kriya Lendzion, LCMHC, LCAS, CPS has journeyed from her own years as a “hot mess” teen in high conflict with her parents to becoming one of the nation’s leading youth addiction and prevention specialists. She has been a school counselor, adolescent therapist, and drug and alcohol educator for over two decades. As a parent coach, speaker, and author, Kriya empowers adults to be “teen whisperers” with the youth in their lives, in order to help “addiction-proof” them for an increasingly risky and addictive world. Humorously known as “The Drug Lady” in our community, she regularly conducts drug and addiction education at several schools across Buncombe County and provides parent and family coaching, consulting, and training across the country. Kriya is currently the Middle School Counselor at Rainbow Community School and French Broad River Academy for Girls.

Fall Reboot: Choose Your Own Adventure
2022-09-12 08:00 - 2022-10-24 17:00
Looking to step into this autumn with vitality and excellent health? Consider joining our Fall Reboot! The Reboot will start on September 12, 2022, and will be guided by our health coach, Ariana Figueroa. Participants will have the choice of following either the Whole30 program or the Plant-Based Whole30 program. Ariana will offer group support, accountability, guidance, and tips for preparing and navigating a Whole30. Most who complete a Whole30 report feeling better all around and see improvements in health metrics (such as blood glucose and cholesterol).
The original Whole30 program removes sugar, dairy, alcohol, grains, and legumes from your diet for thirty days. During that time, the focus is on eating whole foods: vegetables, fruits, nuts, seeds, and healthy-sourced animal products.
The Plant-Based Whole30 program also removes the most common inflammatory food groups from your diet, with adaptations added to ensure participants can eat sufficient plant-based protein. The program focuses on eating whole foods: vegetables, fruits, nuts, seeds, legumes, lentils, peas, minimally processed forms of soy, natural plant-based fats, and etc.
The Reboot is open to any Integrative Life or Employee Health Plan Member, free of charge. To learn more or register—deadline is September 12, 2022—please email reboot@integrativeasheville.org!

Plant-Based Reboot
2022-05-16 - 2022-06-27
Offered exclusively to Integrative Life and Employee Health Plan Members, our Plant-Based Reboot will take place from May 16 through June 27, 2022. Our Health Coach, Ariana Figueroa, will support participants as they complete a plant based Whole30 elimination diet and navigate the reintroduction period.
The Plant-Based Whole30 elimination diet is geared towards removing the most common inflammatory food groups from your diet for thirty days. This includes added sugar, alcohol, grains, animal-sourced dairy, animal protein, animal fats, highly processed forms of soy, carrageenan, sulfites, and baked goods. Instead, the focus is on eating whole foods: vegetables, fruits, nuts, seeds, legumes, lentils, peas, minimally processed forms of soy, natural plant-based fats, and etc.
The Whole30 elimination diet is not meant to be a permanent way of eating. Rather, it is intended to help you learn which foods cause you to feel vibrant and support a practice of eating whole foods. Most of our members who complete a Whole30 report improvements in their health metrics, as well as feeling better all around.
This Plant-Based Reboot will include support in preparation, weekly Zoom check-ins, short videos with tips on how to prepare and successfully complete a Whole30, plus daily emails offering tips and inspiration. The Plant-Based Whole30 will begin on May 16 and run through June 14, 2022. During the reintroduction period that follows, support is available until June 27, 2022.
Important Details: The Reboot is open to any Integrative Life or Employee Health Plan Member, free of charge. If you are interested, please contact us soon! If you are not able to secure a spot this time, know that we will offer future opportunities. Please register by May 13, 2022 by emailing reboot@integrativeasheville.org

2022 IFMA Winter Reboot
2022-02-07 08:00 - 2022-03-24 17:00
Join us this New Year with a focus on whole foods and optimizing your health! Offered exclusively to Integrative Life and Employee Health Plan Members, the IFMA Winter Reboot will take place from February 7 to March 24, 2022. Our Health Coach, Ariana Figueroa, will support participants as they complete a Whole30 elimination diet and navigate the Reintroduction period.
The Whole30 is geared towards removing the most common inflammatory food groups from your diet for thirty days. This means removing sugar, dairy, alcohol, grains, and legumes for thirty days. Instead, the focus is on whole foods: vegetables, fruits, nuts, seeds, and healthy-sourced animal products. If you are vegetarian or vegan, Ariana can help you adapt the Whole30 accordingly. Upon completing a Whole30, many people find that they have learned about which foods help them feel vibrant, gained insight into how they might want to eat differently moving forward, and just feel better all around.
This Winter Reboot will include support in preparation, weekly Zoom check-ins, short videos with tips on how to prepare and successfully complete a Whole30, as well as daily emails offering tips and inspiration. The Whole30 will begin on February 7 and run through March 8, 2022. During the reintroduction period that follows, support is available until March 24, 2022.
Important Details: The Reboot is open to any Integrative Life or Employee Health Plan Member, free of charge. If you are interested, please contact us soon! If you are not able to secure a spot this time, know that we will offer future opportunities. Please register by February 4, 2022 by emailing reboot@integrativeasheville.org.

Heart-Centered Meditation with Dr. Aneela Cox
2022-02-03 12:30 - 13:00
In most spiritual practices, the heart center is the key to diving into deeper states of consciousness. The heart-centered meditation (HCM) is different from most meditation practices (mindfulness based, Zen meditations, etc). It uses 4 attributes: compassion, innate harmony, healing presence and unconditional love to connect to the heart space. This meditation also uses the Karunesh Heart Chakra Meditation soundtrack to deepen the practice.
Dr. Cox will be offering this HCM every Thursday between November 4, 2021 to February 3, 2022, with the exception of holidays. This is offered exclusively to Integrative Life and Employee Health Plan members, free of charge. To register, simply email ariana@integrativeasheville.org. You will receive a confirmation email with the Zoom link for joining.
The HCM was given to Aneela by her teacher, Dr. Ann Marie Chiasson, the fellowship director at the Andrew Weil Center of Integrative Medicine. Her teacher states that “We must windex the heart everyday,” which the HCM allows Aneela to do. Aneela has practiced and taught various styles of meditations over the past decade and she feels called to share the HCM with the Asheville community through Integrative Family Medicine of Asheville.

Building Health Book Club: November 2021
2021-12-02 17:00 - 18:00
Integrative Family Medicine of Asheville presents our November book club selection: Resilient: How to Grow an Unshakable Core of Calm, Strength, and Happiness by Forrest Hanson and Dr. Rick Hanson. This book club is free to Integrative Life and Employee Health Plan Members.
The book club will start on November 1st, and includes four weekly emails offering questions and tips for taking the strategies from the book and incorporating them into your life. To conclude, there will be a one hour virtual book club discussion on December 2, 2021!
The book discussion time will be decided with the participants so as to best accommodate everyone (5:00 pm - 6:00 pm is an approximation). To register please email ariana@integrativeasheville.org.

Resilience Support Group
2021-11-08 11:30 - 12:00
Join our health coach, Ariana Figueroa, for a four week support group geared to share strategies and tips for stress resilience and re-filling your tank. Offered between Monday, October 18 and November 8, 2021. This is free to Integrative Life and Employee Health Plan Members! For more details, read our flyer below. To register email ariana@integrativeasheville.org.

Heart Centered Meditation with Dr. Aneela Cox
2021-03-31 06:30 - 07:00
Whether you are looking for a different approach to meditation, or wanting to try it for the first time, we hope you can join in Wednesday mornings at 6:30 am as Dr. Aneela Cox leads us in a thirty minute heart centered meditation! Every Wednesday through March 31, 2021, Dr. Cox will be offering free guided heart centered meditations via Zoom. You can register through this link.

In most spiritual practices, the heart center is the key to diving into deeper states of consciousness. The heart-centered meditation (HCM) is different from most meditation practices (mindfulness based, Zen meditations, etc). It uses four attributes: compassion, innate harmony, healing presence and unconditional love to connect to the heart space. This meditation also uses the Karunesh Heart Chakra Meditation soundtrack to deepen the practice.

The heart-centered meditation was given to Aneela by her teacher, Dr. Ann Marie Chiasson, the fellowship director at the Andrew Weil Center of Integrative Medicine. Her teacher states that “We must Windex the heart everyday,” which the HCM allows her to do. Aneela has practiced and taught various styles of meditations over the past decade and she feels called to share the HCM with the Asheville community through IFMA.
