Mindfulness is a buzz word these days and many counsellors are teaching it. So, what is it really? In a nutshell, mindfulness is the art of focussing in on the present moment. When you focus on the present moment, you cannot also be worrying about the future or obsessing about the past. The present moment is all we really have, and it is a gateway into a richer and more authentic experience of life. Studies show that it increases happiness and decreases stress. It starts with the breath, paying attention, accepting and being compassionate towards yourself.
Community News
Prevent Shoulder Injuries
Summertime is when many of us pick up an iron and head out on the golf course, or grab a paddle to hit the water in our kayaks or canoes. Unfortunately, these plans sometimes can get sidelined by shoulder injuries. There are some simple things you can do to prevent these from happening. Making sure you warm up your shoulder, back, and neck muscles before you head out is one of them. To learn more, come join us for our next Health Night on May 28! Reserve your seat today.
What is the Most Popular Form of Gambling?
What is the most popular form of gambling; lotteries, casino games or bingo? Statistics Canada (2009) reports lotteries as the most popular form of gambling in BC and Canada. Men are reported to gamble more frequently and will spend three to four times more than women. However, over time, men will spend less; women will progressively spend more. Higher income households are more likely to engage in gambling activities, while lower income homes are more likely to spend a larger percentage of income on gambling activities. No matter which statistic you fall under, help is available when gambling ceases to be a fun activity.
BC North Island Zone Festival
Nanaimo Theatre Group is the host venue for the 2018 Theatre BC North Island Zone Festival. This annual event brings together community theatre groups from the north island to compete and to offer support, camaraderie and cheer one another on. Each night from May 21 to 25, there will be a different local theatre company presenting their show competing for the chance to represent the zone at Theatre BC’s annual Mainstage Festival in Vernon in July. Five plays in five days from five different companies will be offered, all at the Bailey Studio. Shows are $20 each. Save 20% when you book all five shows!
Choosing to Move to a Seniors’ Residence
“There are many advantages to moving to a seniors’ residence while you are still active seniors. * Someone else looks after the yard work and home maintenance * Almost all your expenses are covered with one payment When you add up all your monthly living expenses you’ll discover that senior living is more affordable than you thought * Make new friends with similar interests * Enjoy amenities close to home. Fitness classes, special events, and entertainment are all located on-site, along with dining options staffed by professional chefs. * Moving is less stressful when you’re healthy * You make the choice for your future!
Community Profile – La Rosa Gardens
If you are looking for a comfortable and affordable senior’s residence with a focus on wellness, independence and fun for you or your loved ones, look no further than La Rosa Gardens in Ladysmith. This BC, family owned and operated residence is located on a beautifully landscaped property in a quiet residential area. They offer large living spaces with bright pleasant outlooks, spacious, barrier-free ensuites, 3 delicious meals prepared by their chefs per day and weekly housekeeping. Lounge and dining areas are located on the main floor with a private dining room available for resident gatherings and lots of activities. Other amenities include an on-site hair salon and a bus for outings and shopping trips.
Don’t Let Fear of Stigma Rule You
Dictionary.com defines stigma as “A mark of disgrace or infamy; a stain or reproach, as on one’s reputation.” The fear of being judged and stigmatised often prevents us from seeking help when needed. It is human nature. However, we are our own harshest critics! That is also human nature. When compassion and curiosity replaces judgement, we come to discover what troubles us and what drives our unhealthy behaviours. No one intends to hurt loved ones: This pain is simply a reflection of our own hurt. If unhealthy gambling is an issue, reach out for support. We’re here to help.
Tips for Managing Stress
Here are a few tips that may help you manage the stress in your life: -Exercise; Regular physical activity releases endorphins (feel good hormones) that help reduce stress. –Meditate; Meditation helps the mind and body to relax and focus. When practicing forms of mindfulness, stress decreases substantially. – Hobbies; Take time to do the things you love. Not sure what you like? Get out and try something new! -Eat Healthy; Diets excessive in refined sugars and carbohydrates can affect our ability to deal with stress. Choose a diet rich in fruits, vegetables and healthy fats. – Connect with Others; As our use of technology increases, we forget how valuable human interaction is. Get in the company of those you enjoy being with. Share a laugh.
How Successful is Therapeutic Hypnosis?
When seeking help for a problem, you must decide on the type of therapy that will help you the most. If you need to understand and talk about why you feel and act a certain way, consider psychotherapy or psychoanalysis. But when you are really ready for a change, give serious consideration to therapeutic hypnosis. It offers a deep and rapid clearing of blocks with long-lasting results. The American Health Comparison Study recently published in the American Health Magazine shows 93% recovery after six sessions of hypnotherapy.
Activities for Managing Stress
Chronic stress can be detrimental to our overall health. There are many things that you can do to help deal with the stress in your life. Parks and Recreation has exercise programs to get you moving, meditation programs to help you relax, and cooking courses to teach you healthy food alternatives. There are hundreds of programs to help you develop new hobbies, and you can do each of these as you connect with others. See the Spring and Summer Activity Guide for ways to de-stress
Your Feet and You
Feet. To some, the word brings up images of trails and mountains, kids running in playgrounds and walking beside a lake. For others, it just brings up feelings of pain and annoyance. Feet connect our bodies to the earth and help most of us get from Point A to Point B but do we take proper care of them? Do they cause us pain but we don’t know why? Taking proper care of our feet early on in life can help us live a longer and more productive life. Join us on April 16 to learn how you can care for your feet.
