Colder months often wreak havoc on even the clearest complexions. Ganban-yoku, a Japanese thermal therapy, can not only provide lasting deep warmth for the body, but also a smooth, silky complexion. This is because of the sebum released during the session, which acts as an extra coating on the skin’s surface. This helps smooth and keep the skin moisturized, while making it glow. Ganban-yoku is also a useful relaxation therapy. By reducing stress, hormone levels stabilize and can result in better skin. The reduced stress level can also increase production of sebum to fight dry skin. Mieko Morisawa, PoccaPocaSpa.com
Community News
The Feeling of Calm
A recent client who experienced Brainwave Optimization for the first time discovered what it was like to feel calm. Years of abuse had left her always cautious and afraid of not being able to manage the overwhelming feelings that come indiscriminately because of the PTSD. “It seems as though I’ve come further in these last two weeks of brain balancing than I have in all my years of therapy. I actually feel calm. It is such a foreign feeling to me.” And all that, just by sitting back, relaxing, and listening to her own brain balancing itself. Joanne Couture, RMFT, RSW, La Loba, LaLobaTraumaRelease.com
Do’s and Don’ts of Dating
In today’s distracted world, where people are panicked when they don’t have instant access to their electronics, face-to-face meetings can be a foreign concept. When getting to know someone, it is important that they feel you are giving them your undivided attention. Cell phones need to be on silent and put away while on a date. Exes are not discussed. Communication needs to be real. Texting and emailing are not appropriate ways to get to know someone. Take the time to call them and have a real conversation. Do an activity on your date where you have ample time to get to learn more about the person. Mini golf, bowling, the zoo, or walking through craft shows are some suggestions that allow you to get to know one another without pressure. Lianne Tregobov, CamelotIntroductions.com
Is Your Toothpaste Toxic?
Did you know that your mouth is one of the most absorbent places in your entire body? While you’re brushing the ingredients in your toothpaste enter your mouth and gums, which are the gateway to every system in your body. This is why you need to be very careful when choosing toothpaste. Many brands contain questionable ingredients that you’re far better off avoiding. Modere’s toothpaste received the Environmental Working Group’s (EWG) gold standard verification. • Sugar free • Fluoride-free • Water-soluble abrasives clean without damaging tooth enamel • Supports healthy looking teeth and gums • Our non-toxic formula means it is safe for the whole family • Natural peppermint oil freshens breath. Lisa Tustin, Modere, LiveClean.Market
Stressed about Stress?
Stress is often thought of as something that happens to us. However, stress is a response to an event and therefore mostly within our control. A major study found that when people view unpleasant physical sensations, like a racing heart and nervousness, as helpful instead of harmful, the risk of heart disease, stroke, and early death diminishes greatly. How can we change our mind about stress? By intentionally subjecting ourselves to a healthy stressor. Fifteen minutes of intense exercise releases endorphins – our body’s natural pain killers and stress fighters – which helps us associate a positive feeling with stress-inducing events. Sean Miller, CMHA MB and Winnipeg, mbwpg.cmha.ca
Does Your Pet Need Dental Care?
It’s not surprising that many of us don’t think too much about periodontal disease in our pets…at least not until something starts to look…or smell…bad! Often, there are no obvious signs, but just as with humans, our pets’ overall well-being is very dependent on the state of their teeth and gums. Infections, gingivitis, and broken teeth all can have very adverse effects on their systemic health, as well as being just as painful to them as it is for us. Your veterinarian can help with tutorials on dental home care and prevention. Treatment may include diet, oral rinses, brushing, and of course, professional cleaning done by your veterinary team.
Community Event
Thurs., Nov. 23, 7-9 p.m. Night on the Rocks! New Japanese ganban-yoku thermal spa is hosting a wellness night (1.5 hours). Ganban-yoku session includes 15 min. scalp and facial massage on a therapeutic rock bed. (204) 488-1314, 3-840 Waverley St., PoccaPocaSpa.com
Treatment-Based Massage Therapy
Although massage therapy is an art form and each massage therapist has a different style, the intent of treating someone with a specific pain should be to find its source.
When you see a therapist for a specific pain, you shouldn’t expect a massage for the entire appointment. The therapist should start with tests to rule out conditions that might be more serious or need to be referred to someone else. Then there should be some assessments to determine where the pain is coming from: misaligned joints, reduced range of motions, fatigued muscles, or referred pain. After that, the best part, massage!
Finally, the therapist should discuss with you how often you should be back, based on your individual needs. Crossroads Rehabilitative Massage, CRMassageBrandon.ca
Orthopaedic Manual Therapy
Orthopaedic manual therapy is a branch of physiotherapy or physical therapy that is used in the management of nerves, muscles, and bones of the body (i.e., neuro-musculoskeletal conditions). It uses specific treatment approaches such as manual or manipulative techniques and therapeutic exercises. Scientific and clinical evidence and detailed physical examination of patients are used to arrive at a diagnosis and to develop a management plan to restore and improve the movement and function of these individuals. Orthopaedic manual therapists, in addition to their physiotherapy/physical therapy degree, also have extensive post-graduate education and training in this specific area.
Paula Moreira, B.Sc., BMR.PT., MCISc., FCAMPT, Physio 4 U, Physio4U.net
Rotator Cuff Injuries
Injuries to the rotator cuff (muscles and tendons surrounding the shoulder) are often related to overuse, especially in activities that take place above head height. Occasionally, these can be related to specific trauma. Injuries can be as simple as a strain to the muscle(s) and tendon(s), while in more extreme injuries, the tendon(s) may become partially or completely torn. The prevalence of rotator cuff disease increases with age, with four percent occurring in individuals 40 years of age and older. Fifty-four percent of rotator cuff injuries affecting those 60 years and older are usually more severe, resulting in partial or complete tendon tears. Symptoms of a rotator cuff strain or tear may include pain and swelling in the front or side of the shoulder, pain when raising or lowering the arm, pain when reaching back (putting on a jacket). Treatment involves avoiding activities that cause pain, and gentle stretching exercises as prescribed by your physiotherapist. Doug Treloar (BMR, PT, Acupuncture Certified) PhysioFirstClinic.ca
Improve Digestion with Chia Seeds
Chia seeds are a trendy little superfood that can do amazing things for your digestion. They have a special type of soluble fibre called mucilage and act as a prebiotic to feed the good bacteria in your gut, as well as improve your digestive transit time (how often you go). Introduce fibre into your diet slowly to avoid any adverse reactions.
Chia Seed Pudding Recipe:
• 2 cups kefir
• 1/8 cup + 1 Tbsp. chia seeds
• 1/2 Tbsp. vanilla extract
• Combine and let set over night.
Ally Potrebka, RHN, RYT, Health and Happiness, HealthAndHappiness.ca
