Chronic back and neck problems can be caused over time due to poor posture. Using ergonomic chairs when sitting for extended periods and using footrests at desks can be of great assistance. When standing, ensure your arms are resting at your side, your shoulders are pulled back to open up your chest, your knees are bent slightly, and your stomach is tucked in for core strength (pulling your belly button towards your spine). When carrying a bag or purse, remember to alternate sides. Finally, breathe deeply and balanced – this helps engage the proper postural muscles!
Community News
Movement and Aging
The picture we have of normal aging as a time of gradual loss of function isn’t necessarily accurate. While aging is inevitable, loss of function isn’t. Introducing a simple joint mobility routine into your daily ritual will have a remarkable impact on your well-being! Moving the way your body has evolved to is the path to freedom, strength, and longevity. A functional movement flow class will challenge: postural control, pelvic and core stability, neuromuscular control, balance and flexibility, bilateral mobility and stability of hips and ankles, and more.
Essential Oils in the Nursery
Here are some examples of how you can use essential oils in your nursery. Lavender oil soothes skin, eases tension, and promotes a relaxing atmosphere. Add a few drops to a spray bottle with water and mist sheets to promote feelings of restful sleep. You might also try diluting a drop of lavender with coconut oil for a soothing bedtime massage. Applying a diaper cream with lavender and tea tree oil can provide soothing, cooling relief to your little one. Chamomile provides calming, grounding effects and can be diffused day or night to ease feelings of tension or nervousness.
Finding that Perfect Crystal
Shakti offers something special to those in the community looking for powerful crystals. The shop’s selection of crystals hasn’t just been simply ordered from a catalogue and shipped in. Shakti’s owner, Rebecca, travels to countries like Madagascar and India herself to choose personally the beautiful gems and other inspiring artifacts from trusted vendors who have a long tradition in their trade. This unique relationship can be seen in the eclectic mix of treasures Shakti provides, and Rebecca is constantly expanding her search for new and interesting things. If you’re lucky, she might even grant a request for specific items on her travels. Shakti,
Yard Work Causing You Pain?
Summer is here and with it comes the joys of planting gardens and tending to your yard. Many people will find themselves dealing with pain as they putter around their green space. The pain is often a result of a simple mechanical imbalance in the way you move. Doing repeated movements when there is a mechanical imbalance can lead to some muscles and/or joints becoming overused, which may lead to pain and injury. A physiotherapist can help determine which structures are causing the imbalance, help correct the imbalance, and provide a simple home exercise program to get you back in your yard working pain free!
Detox through Your Gut
Did you know the most effective detox is through the digestive system, kidneys, and liver? Ganban-yoku – a Japanese thermal therapy – can help improve organ function by increasing the core temperature as far-infrared rays released from the natural stone beds gently raise core temperature. As a result, people suffering from poor digestive function can experience much-improved bowel movement days after the session. Not to mention, healthy guts not only help with the detox, but can improve the immune system and mental health also. Take good care of your stomach this summer. Guts are your second brain, after all.
The Diet/Mental Health Connection
Studies around the world are now confirming that diet affects mental health. Take one study, for example, where researchers in China and the U.S. found that when observing nearly 5,000 adults over the age of 60, those who were malnourished were 31% more likely to be depressed than those who weren’t malnourished. Another study of 500 participants over the age of 67 found that adding olive oil or mixed nuts to one’s diet can improve cognitive function. In a meta-analysis of over 34,000 people, researchers found that participants who followed a Mediterranean diet were less likely to develop cognitive disorders.
TrueHopeCanada.com
Freedom at Any Age
Rather than being confined to the inside of your home or relying on friends and family to take you out, consider the freedom of a mobility scooter. They provide the freedom to get around, they conserve physical energy, which can keep you out and about longer, and they also provide you access to places you may not have previously been able to go. They also provide stability and safety, both indoors and outdoors, reducing the risk of falls and injury. Do some research and access free consultations before making a purchase to ensure your or your loved one’s needs are met.
Menopause SOS
Naturopathic medicine can be very helpful during the natural transition of menopause. Many women experience a wide range of symptoms – hot flashes, insomnia, mood changes, joint pain, and migraines. Naturopathic doctors work to optimize all body systems and organs to ensure they are well supported during this time. They also offer a wide range of treatment therapies that can be very helpful, and they can discuss other options with patients, such as bioidentical hormone therapy, that can be further discussed with their family doctor. If you’re suffering with menopause symptoms, consider working with a naturopathic doctor – it may make all the difference!
Ways to Enjoy Meals for One
Living alone can be a truly positive experience and planning quality meals is a great way to achieve this.
Plan your week by:
• Marking down any commitments on your calendar to see your priorities and availability.
• Choosing a food theme for the week to limit your grocery shopping. For example, chicken is a great base that can be used in a week’s worth of diverse dinners!
• Planning meals that will leave you with leftovers for days when you are tired or rushed.
• Collecting single-serving recipes, or dividing the measurements for favourites in advance.
Visit Your Denturist Yearly
It’s important to see your denturist once a year to ensure oral health is maintained and the dentures have proper stability and fit. We want to avoid any damage to the tissue and oral cavity, as well as ensure the temporomandibular joint is supported by a proper vertical dimension, and centric bite is maintained. It is greatly encouraged to visit your denturist for an oral exam, because they believe that a proper fitting denture and healthy oral cavity contribute to a healthy, holistic balance within the body.
