Did you know that many Canadian adults have dangerous levels of mercury, lead, and cadmium in their bloodstream and that the average newborn has over 200 industrial chemicals, pollutants, and pesticides in their blood? From environmental pollutants, to our lotions, deodorants, fragrances, soaps, makeup, plastics, non-stick pans, laundry detergents, dryer sheets, cleaners, and even our food, all have toxic elements that are easily absorbed by the body. Since we are exposed to more toxins than ever before, consider making small changes in your daily routine and purchases – sometimes it’s the simplest of changes that make the difference.

Piper Creek Veterinary Clinic wants our pets to heal properly with reduced pain, so using a laser during surgery is a valuable asset in our practice. It helps in the recovery of our companions in two ways: less bleeding since the laser cauterizes when it cuts, plus less pain as it helps to seal nerve endings. These benefits result in quicker recovery times as well as reduced post-surgery pain. Although initially designed for spay and neuter surgeries, it is a nice tool for removing lumps of all types in addition to countless other applications for your animal needs.

Plantar warts appear on the soles of your feet and toes and are spread by contact with moist, well-traveled surfaces like public showers and washrooms. Caused by HPV (type 1), the skin around the wart forms and thickens so it feels like a marble in your shoe. Prevention is key. I tell my patients to always wear flip flops in public change rooms and at the pool. Treatment varies depending on the physician, but it usually requires several visits two weeks apart. A wart can get better on its own after 2 years, but it can feel like a lot longer!

Caring for an aging parent can be both stressful and challenging. You want what’s best for them, but if you have concerns about the circumstances leading up to the preparation of their will, now is the time to deal with it while they have the capacity to effectively participate in the review and discussion with a lawyer. Often, the reluctance to have these discussions means that they are put off until the parent has lost capacity. At that point, it may be too late to ensure their actual wishes are carried out.

Nov. 19-24. Mall hours. Bower Place – The Great Indoors Market, Old SEARS location. Visit with LOCAL health professionals, businesses and groups. See their displays, demos and presentations promoting all aspects of wellness – mind, body and soul! It’s an excellent chance to find a Christmas gift for others or for yourself…the gift of health. Be sure to drop by the Wellnessnews booth to say “hi” and enter to win some amazing draw prizes.

Several Fall classes to choose from such as Zen Inspired Landscape Cards, Watercolor Class and Lettering Art Guild led by Sally Towers-Sybblis. No experience necessary. Visit ‘Events’ section of SallyTowersSybblis.com or call 403-597-1594 to register.

Sugar Plum Fair
Nov. 18. 1:30-3:30 pm.
6 Daykin St.
All are welcome to a fun-filled afternoon at The Hamlets at Deer Park. There is something special for everyone in your family! Visits with Santa, FREE horse & carriage rides, shop local vendors for festive gifts, hot cocoa, snacks and more! Bring your winter spirit and cheer to this festive event. Donations to the Food Bank appreciated. For more information call 403-309-6333.

Final race in the series. Explore the city of Red Deer one pathway at a time! There is still one event that is open to all ages and abilities on October 27 – see ad for details. Chip timing and low fees, a great way to stay motivated all year long. Register today! Series.RunRedDeer.com

Several Fall classes to choose from such as Zen Inspired Landscape Cards, Watercolor Class and Lettering Art Guild led by Sally Towers-Sybblis. No experience necessary. Visit ‘Events’ section of SallyTowersSybblis.com or call 403-597-1594 to register.

Studies show that there are numerous benefits for connecting children with nature at an early age. It supports creativity and problem solving; enhances cognitive abilities; improves academic performance; reduces Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) symptoms; increases physical activity; improves nutrition, eyesight, social relations, self-discipline and reduces stress. Kerry Wood Nature Centre, WaskasooPark.ca/nature-nursery

Did you know that negative emotions are incompatible with gratefulness? The practice of stopping to count your blessings is necessary to lift depressing and negative thoughts. However, sometimes we need a reminder to be grateful. Make a gratitude board using a white board or poster. Write your thoughts on it at least once a week. A family or a workplace gratitude board can result in many positive emotions, both in stimulating your own thoughts and in knowing how others feel. Use Thanksgiving as a great opportunity to plan how to include gratitude in your life.