McGill Unversity’s Dr. Daniel Levitin has found that as a result of exposure to music, levels of immunoglobin A, an antibody linked to immunity, increases. In another study he found significant evidence of music’s anti-anxiety properties. Montreal Neurological Institute’s Dr. Zatorre has found that a brain structure called the striatum is stimulated by music to release dopamine which increases feelings of pleasure. Music therapists are continually training to integrate and apply research findings into practice in order to better serve people of every age, from babies to Alzheimer’s patients.

Maintaining a healthy prostate is important for managing conditions like prostatitis and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), as well as potentially reducing the risk of prostate cancer. Some symptoms that may occur with a prostate condition include urgency, frequency and pain during urination, weak urine flow, fatigue, back pain, and blood in the urine/semen. Naturopathic doctors can provide support to those experiencing prostate conditions (including helping to reduce some treatment side effects) through nutritional support (dietary journal and guidance for proper diet), acupuncture, Bemer Therapy (increases microcirculation), intravenous nutrient therapy, and sweat detoxification through sauna and hyperthermia.

People living with dementia, along with their caregivers, often experience social isolation, loneliness, limited access to resources, ageism, and the stigma associated with living with cognitive impairment as common realities of their daily lives. The Crossmount Memory Café has provided many opportunities to interrupt these stories and address these common barriers experienced by participants – by increasing awareness and advocacy through the engagement of participants and volunteers in supportive, social, and educational initiatives founded on shared experiences through monthly engagement in the Café’s. For more information, or to register a loved one, please contact Crossmount’s Wellness Director at 306-374-9893.

It’s hard to feel motivated to get enough activity in the winter months, but despite our desire to hibernate, it’s important for us to keep moving. The good news is that every bit of movement counts, even just a few minutes at a time. Try getting up and standing more often, playing music and dancing, and taking the stairs instead of the elevator – even just one flight! You can also play actively with your pets and do simple exercises or stretches while watching TV. Try setting an alarm on your phone to remind yourself to move frequently!