Spring is a new beginning and a great time to start new and healthy habits. Moving out of our comfort zone can result in new and exciting experiences. Spring is a perfect time to go outside and spend time in green spaces. The possibilities are endless. Things to try include birdwatching, rock hounding, searching for sea glass on the beach or an outdoor fitness class. The beginning of a new exercise routine is great for your overall well-being. If you prefer to stay inside, an online course, a painting class or dance lessons may be the perfect new experience to celebrate spring.
Community News
The Alchemy of Gathering
Set amongst the majestic Kitty Coleman Woodland Gardens, the Alchemy of Gathering will focus on creating an open space for the community to come together and celebrate our connections – to ourselves, to each other and to Nature. Offering over 40 local product and service vendors, live music, interactive sound and meditative healing stations, local food vendors and access to the 24 acres of pathways, foliage and the Ocean Stone labyrinth. Join us in this beautiful space and experience sharing ideas on wellness, connection, identity, creativity, healing and more! Let us come together in Nature and celebrate the community and love that is here NOW!
Supercharge Your Immune System
Scientist John Stuart Reid made an amazing discovery. He took two test tubes of red blood cells and placed one in a chamber in complete silence and the other was exposed to music. He then measured the number of cells in each tube. The tube exposed to music multiplied so much that they overloaded the cell counter. The cells were brilliant red and robust. The experiment was done with white blood cells with similar results. He concluded that when immersed in music one is supercharging their immune system. Bathe yourself in the sound of music for an immune boost extraordinaire.
Are You Getting the Right Vitamins & Minerals?
Aging gracefully can come with its challenges. One of the most important things you can do for your health is to ensure you’re getting the right vitamins and minerals. We all know about calcium, so here are some supplement suggestions that are equally important but less common. Always check with your healthcare provider before introducing new supplements into your diet. *Folic Acid – Helps with memory loss and depression. *Vitamin D – Works with calcium to help prevent osteoporosis. * Vitamin B12 – For red blood cell production and nerve health, and is especially important for strict vegetarians. Stay strong, and stay healthy for life!
Fresh Air & Exercise for Well-being
One of the best things about living on Vancouver Island is having nature right in our backyard. Springtime is a great time to take advantage of everything our island has to offer. Whether it is just a walk around the block or a hike up a mountain, the fresh air and exercise boost our well-being. So lace up your shoes and wear VoxxLife socks with HPT for enhanced balance and stability. Additional benefits include; enhanced pain relief and management, especially PDN pain and improved mobility.
Setting Healthy Boundaries at Work
Occupational burnout has been defined as a recognizable syndrome by the World Health Organization. Burnout results in physical and mental fatigue, poor productivity and overall health. Employers and employees need to set healthy boundaries to create healthy, high performing workplaces. Here are some great ways to prevent burnout: • Nourish a safe culture making it ok to admit if the workload is too high • Compromise and negotiate workload • Delegate • Prioritize, prioritize, prioritize • Create a ‘not-to-do’ list • Take breaks • Practice mindfulness • Practice saying no • Offer flexibility or telecommuting options Find more workplace wellness tips at WellnessWorksCanada.ca.
Smell the Flowers
April showers bring May flowers, at least that is how the saying goes. As we enter into May, it is important to remember to stop and smell the roses, or any other flower or scent you like to smell! Often we get so caught up in the “doings” of life, we forget to remember to be. So take a moment every day to just stop, take a deep breath, look around and work to appreciate just being you at the moment.
Profile: Heart to Home Meals
Heart to Home Meals delivers delicious, nutritious meals right to your door. The company’s team of experts has developed a wide-ranging menu to suit many tastes, dietary needs, and lifestyles, including high-protein, low carbohydrates and/or saturated fat, low sodium, high fibre, vegetarian, and no added sugar options. Heart to Home Meals has a useful diet coding system to help you choose meals that are right for you. Meals also come in mini versions (for smaller appetites), hearty versions (for larger appetites), as well as minced or pureed options. It’s as easy as ordering online or by phone!
It is Time to Garden
Spring is in the air so it’s the perfect time to get outside and start gardening! Gardening a great way to stay active and get some fresh air; it can also do wonders for the soul. There’s nothing quite like watching your plants grow and thrive and seeing the fruits (or vegetables) of your labour. If you’re new to gardening, don’t worry – there are plenty of resources and helpful tips available from fellow gardeners in your community. So grab your gloves and trowel, and let’s get planting! Your mind and body will thank you.
Managing PTSD Through Floatation Therapy
Floatation therapy, also known as sensory deprivation therapy, has been shown to be a promising treatment option for individuals with PTSD. The therapy involves floating in a tank of water filled with Epsom salt, which allows the body to float effortlessly. The experience is designed to be completely isolated and sensory-deprived, which can help calm the mind and reduce anxiety. It can help decrease hyperarousal and intrusive thoughts, two common symptoms of PTSD. The therapy can improve sleep quality and reduce overall stress levels. Floatation therapy is a promising option for those who are seeking non-invasive and drug-free treatment options to manage their symptoms.
Benefits of Mobility Scooters
If you or your loved one are considering getting a mobility scooter, it’s good to know there are many benefits to using one: 1) Lower risk of injuries – using a mobility scooter can reduce the risk of tripping, falling, or aggravating painful conditions. 2) Increased independence – mobility scooters provide a safe and reliable mode of transportation that allows users to get around on their own. 3) More socializing – being able to get around on your mobility scooter means more visits with friends and family. 4) Increased comfort – mobility scooters offer more comfort than devices like walkers, canes, or crutches.
