Bothell resident Chantelle Schreyer has launched a new chapter of the Holistic Moms Network (HMN) for Eastside parents.

The national nonprofit group connects parents who are passionate about healthy-living alternatives and sustainability — concepts that can include anything from eating whole and organic foods to using homeopathic remedies.

“For new parents who choose to raise their children holistically, having the support of like-minded parents is critical,” said HMN Executive Director Nancy Massotto.

The Holistic Moms Network has 120 chapters nationwide.

There were only three in the state of Washington before Schreyer founded one for the Eastside.

“I felt that there would be a need for a community group such as this on the Eastside,” she said. “We live in an area where people, in general, are very open-minded about alternative means of living, and our city (Bothell) is very environmentally-friendly and ‘green.’”

Each Holistic Moms group holds monthly meetings, some of which feature guest speakers who can provide insight on holistic living.

Schreyer says the information can help mothers like herself trust their instincts and parent from the heart by getting educated about their choices, not to mention the dangers that children face.

“As a community of informed parents, we not only have the power to make a positive difference in our families’ lives, we have the power to change the world,” Schreyer said. “Making personal changes in your life does have a global impact.”

Schreyer, a mother of three, has raised her kids holistically since childbirth.

The alternative methods she uses include chiropractic care, breast feeding past the age of 2 years, naturopathy and eating whole, organically-grown and local foods.

The Eastside Holistic Moms Network will meet on the last Thursday of every month.

• Additional information is available online at www.bothellwa.holisticmoms.org and by e-mailing loving3angels@comcast.net.

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