Don’t worry, nutritionists are not the “food police”, but rather they too have days when they eat healthy, and other days not so much. A nutrition assessment is the opportunity to get to know you, what your schedule looks like, and the time you have to meal plan, prep, cook, grocery shop, etc. It’s a chance to learn about your medical history, what supplements you may be taking, and most importantly, discuss your NUTRITION GOAL(S). Each day is a new chance to make healthy food choices, and nutritionists are there to help.

This is an area of focus where lawyers work with community agencies and resources within the community to help ensure that the legal needs of vulnerable seniors and those who care about them are met. This focus can include navigating issues that may arise while in care or taking actions to prevent and resolve estate disputes. Concerns about financial circumstances and estate planning can also be addressed. As the population ages, there will be an increasing need to ensure that those who have become vulnerable because of frailty (physical and mental) are protected.

Whether you run for fun or competition, what you eat and drink before, during, and after makes a difference. Night before: eat a large carb-loaded supper like spaghetti and salad. Day of: eat a medium-sized meal, like porridge, no later than 2 hours before the event. After: drink a cup of water for every 30 minutes you spent in the run. Consider a natural electrolyte replacement drink such as coconut water, if you run for longer than 90 minutes. Finally, a whole food source of protein and carbohydrate within 20 minutes of finishing will help restore your energy.

The Canadian Dental Association recommends children start their education with healthy smiles by visiting a dentist to check for tooth decay, gum/brushing problems, and any orthodontic concerns. Treatment alternatives, including some needle-free anti-cavity developments, are discussed. Children who have extensive problems or who would find treatment difficult without deep sedation may be referred to a pediatric specialist.

The Beam™ by Nimbleback is a simple self-care tool used for exercise that may have some benefits when used with yoga stretching and breathing exercises. The Beam™ is based on yoga stretching theory and uses the breath to focus on releasing tension. It allows you to take 10 minutes a day to relax and focus on your breath with yoga stretching that will help to release tension and relax the mind and body. Release, relax, and restore your core.

On the days when the sun is shining and warm breezes blow – take advantage of that time to freshen your home. Throw open the windows. If you can, wash your comforter/duvet. Let it tumble dry for a bit then finish it off outside in the sunshine. The same for your pillows, mattress covers, bed skirts and such. Your senses, sinuses, skin and lungs will thank you! Make up some herb infused vinegar to clean those surfaces that are harbouring the closed-up-house-nasties, or polish up the windows and let that beautiful sun shine in. Jennifer Fookes, RPh., BSc. Pharm, Mortar & Pesto, MortarAndPesto.com

Fridays and Saturdays – FREE Dental Check-up & X-ray Program for children ages 5 and 6 years (see our ad). Call Bower Dental (general dentists) today at 403-347-8008 and mention the ‘FREE Kids’ Check-up Promotion’ to help keep your child smiling.

Could you benefit from creating a “Game Plan” to reclaim your health, get a new job, embrace becoming a new parent, deal with a separation, or get into a new relationship? Perhaps you feel like your life needs an overhaul? Life Coaches use various methods and approaches, such as Open-Ended Questions, Thought Refocusing, and Strategic Intervention, to bring understanding and clarity to you in any life stage by developing the very thing that matters most…YOU! Since everyone is unique, and has different challenges, seeking the aid of a coach can improve whatever life stage you might be in. John Harty, Insight Life Coach Services http://MeetMe.so/JohnHarty

Sweating serves an important function, but for some it causes personal embarrassment and worry. There are options, such as FDA-approved BOTOX® Medical, to treat excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis) and help resolve concerns. The Canadian Association of Medical Spas and Aesthetic Surgeons recommends that BOTOX® Medical should only be given by or under the direction of “a licensed and authorized health-care professional who is trained and qualified to provide Botox education and treatment.” Treatments can last up to 6 months and the cost often covered by private health care plans. Visit www.camacs.ca to learn more. Dr. Raymond Comeau, BMSc, MD, CCFP, Horizon Medicine Centres, HorizonMedicine.ca

Participating in any run/walk can elevate your mood, prevent or manage diseases like diabetes, heart disease, obesity, and depression, while actively taking in the natural beauty of city trails. Designed for girls/women of all ages and fitness levels, the 2018 event on May 12 will raise money for the Mustard Seed’s School Lunch Program. Sarah, a RDPCN Support Nurse shares, “The positive energy of women supporting women is incredible and the participant swag bags, Wellness Expo and Market, and draw prizes are fantastic. It’s FUN and supports a great cause! I will definitely be back this year!”

Active Release Technique (ART) is a soft tissue system protocol that finds and helps to repair problems with muscles, tendons, ligaments, fascia, and nerves. A wide assortment of conditions, which usually result from overused muscles that can eventually succumb to large tears, micro-tears and/or lack of oxygen, can be resolved with ART. It works by having the provider identify the problem tissue and direct a specific tension in the tough, thick scar tissue while the patient moves the affected area in a specific direction. For more information, visit www.activerelease.com.