Backwoods Creations Evolving Into Healing Center and Health Bar

The traditional quaintness of the green trimmed cottage just north of Bauman in Bonners Ferry belies the transition that is taking place within Backwoods Creations.

Owner Kelly Navarro sparkled with enthusiasm as she pointed out the many changes that are taking her store on the path towards a gift shop of a spiritual nature.

"The changes in my shop are reflected in my own spiritual journey," said the Sandpoint native who moved to Bonners Ferry ten years ago. "I'm infusing my passion for mind, body and soul healing with the products I sell and sharing them with the public. In fact, the name Backwoods Creations is also in flux. It no longer reflects what's inside. We'll be changing the name and the sign soon."

The rustic wood furniture and home decor that she has sold for nearly two years has not disappeared; it's merely sharing the bright, comfortable space with a wide range of spiritual-based products. Her new line ranges from inspirational books and music, to jewelry, wind chimes, oracle cards, Native American smudge, greeting cards, crystals, massage oils, lotions, leather pouches, hand beaded items, soaps and home decorations. She also carries many locally handcrafted items, including her own line of soy candles. Navarro is also proud of her entire line of eco-friendly, green cleaning supplies.

The shop currently includes two full rooms of merchandise plus a healing room where Navarro performs energetic healing sessions by appointment.

"My purpose is to plant the seed in peoples' minds about mind, body, and spirit healing, and conscious living," she said. "More people are going inward and I want to provide resources for those who are going on that journey. People are discovering us. Moving to this location last year was a good change. Retail has slowed down due to the economy, but what I am finding is that people connect with the things that make them feel comfortable in their homes. I have infused into my shop the things that give me comfort and joy."

Navarro is most excited about the newly established smoothie and fruit drink bar inside the shop. From $3.25 to $4.50, customers are discovering health and energy benefits of a nutritious drink over junk food. Navarro serves a full line of hot beverages such as cappuccinos, lattes, espressos, chai tea and yerba matte lattes. Her cold beverages include smoothies, fresh fruit and vegetable juices and Italian sodas.

She grows her own organic wheat grass and is an enthusiastic proponent of chlorophyll for its health benefits. She also carries a dietary supplement called Tunguska Blast that many of her clients enjoy. Plans are in the works to add a drive-through window for people who want to grab a healthy drink on their way to or from work or errands.

Navarro has recently started the process to become a feng shui practitioner. Feng Shui is an ancient Chinese art used to promote such things as health, happiness and prosperity. She plans to help people set up their homes to nurture their body and souls.
"I want to help people make their homes their sanctuaries," she said. "Incredible people are coming out of the woodwork and sharing their soul's journey."

Navarro invites the public to come into Backwoods Creations to give suggestions for the new name, and watch as the future unfolds for the unique shop and healing center.