The Great Nanaimo Toy Drive is looking for some people whose cup of Christmas Cheer needs some filling. For 35 years the Toy Drive has helped families in need ensure their children have a few gifts at Christmas. By ‘filling’ that need, we can fill our own cups of cheer. The simple act of purchasing a new present for a newborn or child up to 16 years old, and dropping it in one of the convenient drop off boxes at Nanaimo Fire Halls, CCCredit Unions, major shopping centres among others makes us feel better and connects us to our community. Contact us for more information or to volunteer.

Do you volunteer? If so, there are many compelling reasons to keep it up! You may already know about the positive effects that volunteering has on mental health including lowering stress, anxiety and depression, and increasing social connection. But did you know that volunteers might also be rewarded with better physical health? This includes both lowering blood pressure and a longer lifespan. Greek philosopher Aristotle was onto this many years ago surmising that the essence of life is “To serve others and do good.” And if this research is any indication, serving others may be exactly what the doctor ordered.

We all dread that question! If we don’t give a detailed list, we set ourselves up for racy black undies three sizes too small. It is the thought that counts right? Here is a perfect solution to getting what you want for Christmas, in the right size. A good lingerie shop keeps a customer “Wish List”. Go and try on a selection of things that you would love to receive as a gift and add them to your wish list. Then, give the store’s card to your significant other and say “They know what I want!”.

STOP take a breath; disengage from your stress and overwhelm. Ask yourself what really matters? Will this issue matter 6 months or a year from now? All too often we get caught up in the moment but it doesn’t have to be that way. Give yourself relief to restore your vitality and focus. Try massage, meditation and walks in nature to help release your physical and mental pain. It’s time for you to get back in the driver’s seat of your life. Explore what really makes you feel good in your heart; what it is that makes it sing like a symphony and then do it!

This time of year, the darkness coupled with the colder weather, can really challenge our resolve to stay active. Here are a few tips to keep us motivated: 1. Sign up for a fitness or yoga program with Nanaimo Parks and Recreation. If you have registered for a class, you are more likely to show up. 2. Buddy Up – Make a commitment with a friend, family member or even the family dog. You are more likely to follow through on workout commitments if others are with you. 3. Set a Goal – Get 10,000 steps every day for three months. A self-regulated challenge is often enough to keep us moving.

“Close the door, you are letting in the cold air”. Our homes are built to be energy efficient and we diligently seal any cracks that may be allowing cold drafts into the house. Unfortunately, this also seals off our home from fresh air. In turn this increases the concentration of VOCs from the use of cleaning products, traditional air fresheners and scented personal products. To keep your air healthy, try unscented products, add certain indoor plants and open windows when seasonally possible. There are also a growing number of natural, scent-free air fresheners that absorb both odours and chemicals.

Chronic stress attacks our weaknesses and, like a bucket slowly filling with water one drop at a time, it will eventually overflow. When it does, it can have physical effects like high blood pressure or heart disease, or emotional ones like depression and anxiety. A counsellor can help you identify your stressors and determine how to manage them. This can include developing daily habits known for combatting stress like meditation, exercise, becoming more assertive and letting go. Look for a counsellor with a caring, non-judgemental approach combined with a compassionate ear and a kind heart. You can add health and longevity to your life.

We hear a lot about concussions and professional sports, but concussions can also happen in minor sport and rec leagues. Today scientists are actively trying to determine the optimal way to recover from concussions. We tend to associate concussions with head trauma, like in hockey or football but don’t realize that concussions can occur without head trauma. If you are playing any sport and experience ear ringing, headaches, light sensitivity, blurred vision, irritability, changes in sleep patterns, or difficulty focusing attention or concentrating, you may have a concussion. If you notice these symptoms in yourself or someone you know, get assessed by a doctor.